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Subject: Ask Joe June 2007 - Discounted Electronics
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dkd (guest)
06/01/2007 4:36 PM Alert 

Joe: Is a remanufactured computer (Gateway's  term) the same as "Reconditioned" used in your column? I have had one since 1999 and it has worked well until the last month, so I am interested in getting another one. Where can you get open box, refurbished or reconditioned computers besides from the manufacturer? Also, do you know of any computers that come loaded with the Firefox (or is it Foxfire?) operating system rather than Microsoft (I do not want the Vista system on a computer I purchase). Any cautions on using an alternative operating system? Thanks!
Jon Gold (guest)
06/11/2007 4:50 PM Alert 
dkd - I believe that Gateway uses that term for Marketing purposes but it is the same thing as Reconditioned. I'd be careful getting reconditioned computers from anyone other then a manufactuer as the manufacturer makes sure that they are in proper working order. Retailers and online merchants may sell them, but it may not be worth it. If you do it, go through a trusted retailer like Best Buy or Circuit City, but again, your depending on their staff checking the computer to make sure all equipment and software is included. Most of the time they are returns.

In regards to operating system, Firefox is a web browser and it doesn't come installed. You can download it for free from Mozila.org. If you are looking for alternatives to Vista, you can buy WIndows XP from retailers like Target or Walmart still, you'd have to install and overwrite Vista if it comes preinstalled - which most computers do.
carmelita2u@yahoo.com (guest)
06/13/2007 3:27 PM Alert 
Hi, Joe. In January 2007 I purchased a LEXMARK X2470 printer online from Circuity City. I didn't open it until April 2007. It is missing the ink cartridge holder. The manual appeared used and there was no USA warranty form. Circuity City won't honor this item as it is past the warranty period. It was not advertised as an Open Box or Refurbished product. The printer appears unused. Now I am out the price of the printer and the extra ink cartridge I purchased. Also the online advertisement did not state that a USB cable was not included. ANY SUGGESTIONS WHAT I CAN DO?
Jon Gold (guest)
06/15/2007 4:17 PM Alert 
The manual should have a material list that comes with the product. It is normal for any printer not to come with a USB cable and it should appear on the box. Their online ad may not have stated this, but it probably didn't state that it DID come with one either. The ink cartridge holder missing is a problem, I'd contact the manufacturer and explain the situtation. The warranty should be available on their website and they may be able to ship the missing parts to you as well.
rcbick1@aol.com (guest)
06/16/2007 12:07 PM Alert 

   Joe: how about a column that lists websites (if there are any) that can be used to contact long-lost childhood friends, etc. FOR FREE?  I'm familiar with switchboard.com, but it seem to take you to a certain point, and then wants to charge a fee to provide the final info that would guarantee that you have located the person you are looking for.  Also, in the same vein, is there a FREE website for obituaries of persons that have been dead for several years?  Legacy.com usually has the needed info, but, once again, they charge a fee for the complete obituary, once it is archived.  

   Thanks in advance for any response.

                                                    Bob Bickett
arizonatuckwell (guest)
06/19/2007 2:48 PM Alert 
Dear Joe,

Before my computer broke down I remember turning off the monitor only.
Now that it is fixed, I am told to turn off both the computer and monitor when I am no longer using it.
I do not feel comfortable doing this. I would appreciate your professional
opinion on this procedure.

Thank you.
Arizona Tuckwell
Jon (guest)
06/21/2007 12:10 PM Alert 
   Arizona - a response is located here

http://www.ericksontribune.com/Home/Forums/tabid/77/forumid/9/postid/2510/view/topic/Default.aspx
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