Dude, You Got Delled

You would think that any new computer ordered from a major manufacturer these days would come with all of the latest updates to the operating system. But instead the Dell laptop I purchased recently required a dizzying array of patches and security fixes - downloaded immediately from the Microsoft web site. Then, of course, I had to remove the reams of useless software that comes pre-installed. And now I need to figure out how to reclaim the rest of my hard drive - which is currently being used for the "System Restore" files that return my laptop to a pristine state in the event it gets obscenely violated by a virus that evades Microsoft's paltry defenses.

And, of course, there is the reminder of stark economic reality that comes with a call to Dell's technical support hot-line. My patriotic shorts aren't ruffled by the geographical location of the outsourced service center, but I am less keen on the semi-coherent conversation that ensues when you attempt to describe the nature of the problem to a person whose name almost certainly isn't "Fredrick" - no matter how he answered the phone. Say anything off-script and you are met with a baffled silence.

Apple would have been a better way to go, without question. Their commercials recently - with the PC guy and the Apple guy - you couldn't ask for a more clever and succinct summary of the differences between the systems - one which, by all accounts, won't go away and will probably be exacerbated by the release of the Windows Vista operating system early next year (or later). For me price was a major factor, and my professional needs require Windows. This Dell laptop isn't the worst computer I've ever owned, but it's hard to get excited about this consumer experience.

The large manual that came in the box there has a stern legalistic warning, in bold font, about rights, exclusions, and disputes.

If that doesn't say it all.