I pulled the trigger on a new computer. What I got was the Dell Inspiron 1525 I had mentioned previously. I got a recertified model, saving some money, and used a special promotional coupon, saving some more. With taxes (huh? Dell is in Texas!) and a California recycling fee, and counting shipping, I’m paying $571.74.

What that bought is:

• Core 2 Duo at 2 GHz
• 4 GB RAM
• 320 GB 5400 rpm hard disc
• DVD-RW/+RW (8X)
• Intel Wireless-N
• etc. (Firewire, 4 USB 2.0 ports, etc.)

Also a copy of Vista Home Premium, but of course I’ll wipe that as soon as I’ve run some certification tests and maybe a benchmark or two.