all in one computers

[cocodrilo]

I need a new computer, and have just found out about these things called all-in-one computers (desktop with no tower). Having a sensitive ear condition, my first question is, do they make any noise at all comparable to the fan noise of a tower? Are they cooled by a fan or something else? Are they in any case quieter?

[FLfan]

..Just got a Samsung AIO and I am really enjoying it. It is very quiet. The screen resolution is very crisp, just like a good Samsung tv.
I am not the most tech-savvy person, but I am finding Windows 8 to be pretty user friendly. I was reluctant to go for W-8 after being one of those who had Vista and hated it.
Good luck.

[cocodrilo]

So far I have only seen pictures online. Where do you insert a DVD or CD for burning or copying files?

[allig8ralli]

So far I have only seen pictures online. Where do you insert a DVD or CD for burning or copying files?

a lot of the new computer are doing away with the cd drive so it can get thinner

[cocodrilo]

a lot of the new computer are doing away with the cd drive so it can get thinner

Then how do you copy files for safekeeping?

[FLfan]

There is a DVD drive on the right side.

[FLfan]

The other nice feature is that we have a Smart tv, Samsung, and it was simple to wirelessly set up the connection between the two. Very user friendly.

[td21]

I own a computer company aio are similar to laptops a lot of them even use same components. The bad thing is they usually don't last due to heat issues.

[cocodrilo]

The bad thing is they usually don't last due to heat issues.

Is that because there's no fan? (Back to the question of noise or quietness.)

[FLfan]

Well, I hope it lasts a while.
:/
I have been very satisfied with the quality of Samsung products and am hoping for the same with the new computer.

[cocodrilo]

Does your Samsung have Norton or MacAfee (or something else)? My present computer has Norton Internet Security and I like it. I previously had some trouble with MacAfee, mainly, as I recall, because it got confusing with updates etc. The reason I ask is because I've been buying Dell computers, and the current Dells come with MacAfee.

[Tebowism0823]

I have an HP one and I love it.

[Tebowism0823]

Is that because there's no fan? (Back to the question of noise or quietness.)

To my knowledge there's no issues with heat or noise. My computer has no noise whatsoever nor does it get hot. I've had mine for over a year and its fantastic.

[FLfan]

Does your Samsung have Norton or MacAfee (or something else)? My present computer has Norton Internet Security and I like it. I previously had some trouble with MacAfee, mainly, as I recall, because it got confusing with updates etc. The reason I ask is because I've been buying Dell computers, and the current Dells come with MacAfee.


It's neither of those. I bought it at Best Buy and they recommended one that I wasn't familiar with called Titanium. I have used ESET before and really liked it, but the guys at the store were suggesting this one.
Again..I am no tech guru. Hope this helps. BTW..all of the specs are available at the Samsung website if you want to take a look.
Like Tebowism, I have had excellent experiences with HP as well. We have an HP AIO printer. It's a lifesaver.

[David Shepherd]

I have a Dell all in one in my church office and I like it. I have not finished setting it up, but the early usage has been good. The DVD is on the left side and the USB on the right.

[delandgator]

Have an HP I got at Office Depot for like $400 and love it

[cocodrilo]

I have an old printer, an HP Laserjet 4, that I used for 20 plus years. It has one of those big, rectangular plugs (I don't know what they're called) that plugs into the back of the tower. Is there a place for this type of plug on all-in-one computers, or will I have to buy a new printer too?

[LakeGator]

It sounds like you are using a parallel cable which is rather fat and has large connectors. I have not seen any computers with parallel ports in many years. Printers today are USB, Ethernet or Wi-Fi these days.

Printers are very cheap and will get cheaper the longer you wait given the dramatic reduction in purchases of printers in the last year. Not only are the various mobile devices like phones and tablets destroying the laptop business but significantly impacting printing as well.

[cocodrilo]

Thanks. My old printer still works like a charm, has paid for itself many times over. I will keep it with the old computer, when I buy the new one, as a backup.

Eventually, of course, they will stop selling the toner cartridges for it. I'm surprised they haven't already.

[jewood592]

I've had one for years now and absolutely love it! I will be going with a MAC next, but All In One os the way to go for PC users.

[cocodrilo]

If you've used nothing but Dell computers all your life, how hard is it to switch to a MAC?

[FLfan]

It's weird. I have an iphone, iPod, and iPad, but still prefer windows format for my PC. I find it simpler. Go figure.

[cocodrilo]

Based on just what web reading I've done tonight, I think I'll buy a MAC. (To mention one advantage: MACs are targeted less than PCs by malware.)

[FLfan]

Good luck coco. Let us know about it.

[gator0254]

Thanks. My old printer still works like a charm, has paid for itself many times over. I will keep it with the old computer, when I buy the new one, as a backup.

Eventually, of course, they will stop selling the toner cartridges for it. I'm surprised they haven't already.

You can buy converter cables that will change the interface to a USB plug-in

a quick search for them is below

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&source=hp&q=parallel+port+to+usb+adapter&gbv=2&oq=parallel+port+&gs_l=heirloom-hp.1.3.0l10.2047.6359.0.13813.14.12.0.2.2.0.234.15 15.0j9j1.10.0...0.0...1c.1.-muLo7j6AuA

[vaxcardinal]

If you've used nothing but Dell computers all your life, how hard is it to switch to a MAC?

I've only used windows computers but my wife and kids convienced me to get an iMac. Havent actually opened the box and set it up yet. Plan on doing that on new years day. Dont think it will be difficult to switch, just plug it in and off you go.

[cocodrilo]

I've only used windows computers but my wife and kids convienced me to get an iMac. Havent actually opened the box and set it up yet. Plan on doing that on new years day. Dont think it will be difficult to switch, just plug it in and off you go.

I'm just hoping that all the created files I have on my Dell can be loaded onto a MAC without any compatibility problem. (Mainly doc and pdf.)

[vaxcardinal]

I'm just hoping that all the created files I have on my Dell can be loaded onto a MAC without any compatibility problem. (Mainly doc and pdf.)

it depends on what software you use on your MAC. For PDF files, Adobe is free so no problems there. For Microsoft office files you can use "office" compatable free stuff like google docs. Or, you can buy microsoft office for a MAC or you can buy MAC software called pages (for word), numbers (for excel), keynote (for powerpoint). This software suite allows a richer document "creation" capability and is also compatable with the microsoft suite. I went with this option.

As for printers...I have an old HP 720 printer and have a USB adapter that enables be to use with my current windows computer so I plan on using that for my MAC.

[vaxcardinal]

got my imac setup...its blazing fast. Takes a lot of getting used to, especially the trackpad. Google will be your best friend :)

[vaxcardinal]

ran into problem #1...no compatible driver for my old HP printer so looks like i'll be getting a new printer.

[HALLGATOR]

In my opinion it is a total waste of money to pay for an antivirus. When I am working with people and their free trials run out I suggest Microsoft Security Essentials although there are others which are free and work well. Also,

[cocodrilo]

A PC AIO I'm looking at (won't be getting a Mac after all) has 4 USB 2.0 ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports. What do 2.0 and 3.0 mean?

Also, will a "Slim Tray Super Multi DVD Burner" burn CDs? I've burned plenty of CDs with my present Dell, but it won't burn a DVD.

[cocodrilo]

Noise is a problem for me because of a chronic ear condition. I have read that AIOs are quiet, but how quiet is quiet? I have not yet actually sat in front of one that's running. I would appreciate hearing from those with AIOs in terms of how really quiet they are. Would I be better off buying a PC with a tower (which of course has fan noise but will not be sitting right in front of me like an AIO), or do I not need to worry?

[FLfan]

Hey again,
I am sitting in front of my AIO right now and it is so quiet that I actually leaned right next to it to try to hear anything. It is really quiet, coco.

I will go to the Samsung site and get you a link to read the specs. Also, perhaps you should go to a Best Buy or HHGregg..don't have to purchase from them, and ask look at the various new models and get their feedback and ask them your questions also.
Unfortunately, the store is noisy, but in my silent office at this moment, this model AIO is super quiet.

[HALLGATOR]

A PC AIO I'm looking at (won't be getting a Mac after all) has 4 USB 2.0 ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports. What do 2.0 and 3.0 mean?

Also, will a "Slim Tray Super Multi DVD Burner" burn CDs? I've burned plenty of CDs with my present Dell, but it won't burn a DVD.

The difference is transfer rate. Here's a link that can explain it better:

http://www.usr.com/education/peripherals0.asp


More than likely the reason your current Dell won't burn DVDs is it is a CD burner and won't burn or play DVDs. On the other hand a DVD burner should also burn CDs.

[Juggernautz]

I'm happy w\ my Gateway PC & ASUS laptop but I do prefer Apple tablets & phones.

[cocodrilo]

Thanks for the responses. The AIO I'm thinking of buying comes pre-installed with Windows 7. I have never used 7 (I have Windows XP), but from what I've read it would be far preferable to Windows 8 for what I do (web surfing and word processing). I don't game, photoshop, watch movies, listen to music, or tweet. I have never owned a smart phone (I have a plain old "cell phone" for emergencies), laptop, ipad, egad, or any other computing essential other than a big old Dell desktop. Why would I need Windows 8? I know I would have to get used to 7, but is there any reason I should beware getting it instead of 8?

[vaxcardinal]

for what you do, either is fine.

[HALLGATOR]

I agree with vax, I have one computer still running XP and one running Windows 7. It won't take you long to get used to 7 although there are some differences so if you have any questions just ask.

[MJGator8104]

We have had a 23" HP Touchsmart 600 for just over 2 years. We love it. Very quiet, although it does have a fan. Basically these computers are similar to laptops in design, so that should be an indicator of loudness if you want a comparison. Like a laptop, you won't really be able take it apart and work on the insides, but if that's okay, I'd say they are a good option. We love ours.

We also use a wireless printer to minimize clutter. Plus the computer is wireless eliminating the Cat5 cable.

[gatorr4life]

Get an IPad and be done with it. This thing is freaking amazing.

[cocodrilo]

Here's a link to the HP Pavilion AIO I'm thinking of buying. What I like (aside from the pre-installed Windows 7, which might be better for me than 8) is the processor's 3.2 Ghz (which is what I have now on my Dell desktop). The other AIOs I've seen under #1,000 have less Ghz, which makes me wonder how much less speed or power they have. (One AIO reviewer said that his would freeze when he tried to run two programs at once.) But I also wonder if the higher Ghz would make this AIO less quiet. (Since there's nowhere I know to see it, I'll have to buy it to find out.)

Thoughts?

http://www.amazon.com/HP-Pavilion-23-1030-23-Inch-Desktop/dp/B008I72QVI/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

[delandgator]

I have had this computer since last 4th of July when my old computer got hit by lightning and love it. Have not had any speed or power issues at all. I do software consulting mainly from home so I use it all the time with multiple programs, VPNs open without any issues. It is very quiet as well.

[cocodrilo]

I have had this computer since last 4th of July when my old computer got hit by lightning and love it. Have not had any speed or power issues at all. I do software consulting mainly from home so I use it all the time with multiple programs, VPNs open without any issues. It is very quiet as well.

When you say "this computer," you're referring to the HP Pavilion 23-1030 23-Inch, correct?

If so, does it have an Ethernet port? The linked site mentions only USB ports. I'm currently hooked up to an AT&T modum using an Ethernet cable. Without an Ethernet port I assume that means I would have to get a USB cable for Internet connection.

You say it's "very quiet." Yesterday I went to Staples and they had two HP AIOs (not this one) that were running. I put my ear down to each one and couldn't hear anything. How does that compare to your "quiet"?

[HALLGATOR]

While there will/should be a port to hardwire your machine to the modem you really should consider getting a wireless router. You can get a decent one for around $50 at Wally World or order on-line from a place like TigerDirect. That way you are not worried about a physical connection and you can move around with it more easily.

[cocodrilo]

While there will/should be a port to hardwire your machine to the modem you really should consider getting a wireless router. You can get a decent one for around $50 at Wally World or order on-line from a place like TigerDirect. That way you are not worried about a physical connection and you can move around with it more easily.

Well, everything was hooked up by AT&T (as part of AT&T U-verse, which includes my internet, phone and TV), so I don't know how I would integrate a wireless router with what they've set up. It may be easier just to ask them for a USB cable (if they'll give me one).

[swoosh69]

I have uverse and the modem is a wireless router. Do you have a wi-fi device (smart phone, ipad, ipod touch,etc.) that you can use to test to see if it's already sending out wi-fi? If not, just have someone test it who does have a smartphone/ipad.

[cocodrilo]

I have uverse and the modem is a wireless router. Do you have a wi-fi device (smart phone, ipad, ipod touch,etc.) that you can use to test to see if it's already sending out wi-fi? If not, just have someone test it who does have a smartphone/ipad.

One of the two TVs has a wireless modem. It's controlled by a device called a Wireless Access Point (WAP) (is that a "wireless router"?) that's attached to the modem beside my computer, which modem is connected to the computer by an Ethernet cable. I don't have any wi-fi device.

[swoosh69]

One of the two TVs has a wireless modem. It's controlled by a device called a Wireless Access Point (WAP) (is that a "wireless router"?) that's attached to the modem beside my computer, which modem is connected to the computer by an Ethernet cable. I don't have any wi-fi device.

Yeah, I have a WAP for one of my wireless receivers too, but don't think that puts out wifi...my uverse router does have the wireless network name and password on the listed right on the router...look for that. On mine, it's near the top/side of the device.

[vaxcardinal]

I think an easy way to check is to look at the labels next to the lights on your router. If one of them says wireless then your router can support wireless. I suspect thats the case given that your TV is connected to a WAP. No need to use wireless, this computer can be connected just like your current computer, with an ethernet cable. In the link above if you scroll down to Datasheet (about halfway down the page) you'll see that the specs list a network interface with the standard ethernet connection. Also supports wireless.

[cocodrilo]

In the link above if you scroll down to Datasheet (about halfway down the page) you'll see that the specs list a network interface with the standard ethernet connection. Also supports wireless.

Thanks, I didn't notice the datasheet.

Under "Network Interface," it says "10/100/1000 Base-T network interface." That means Ethernet?

[HALLGATOR]

My bad coco I was thinking you were getting a laptop and that's why I suggested wireless. Since you have a WAP you would have been fine but you should be able to connect your new computer just like the old one.

[vaxcardinal]

Thanks, I didn't notice the datasheet.

Under "Network Interface," it says "10/100/1000 Base-T network interface." That means Ethernet?

yes

[Jupgator]

Back to the antivirus, I used to have McAfee and then Norton. McAfee seemed to interfere alot so switched to Norton. It used alot of memory I thought but the main problem with them was it kept telling me it needed renewal when it didn't. Have used Microsoft Security Essentials for several years now. Not only free, but non intrusive and it works great.

[cocodrilo]

Back to the antivirus, I used to have McAfee and then Norton. McAfee seemed to interfere alot so switched to Norton. It used alot of memory I thought but the main problem with them was it kept telling me it needed renewal when it didn't. Have used Microsoft Security Essentials for several years now. Not only free, but non intrusive and it works great.

It must be the case that McAfee and Norton (I've tried both and prefer Norton) catch or block more things than Microsoft Security Essentials or other free programs. Otherwise they couldn't sell them. Surely they aren't just scams. I guess I'm just too paranoid to depend on Microsoft to protect me from everything.

[LakeGator]

There have been a couple of cases where the Microsoft Security Essentials has found malware not found by McAfee. There was a discussion about that in this forum within the last 6 months or so. MSE is preferred by the vast majority of the technical folks who frequent this forum for many reasons but Jupgator gave an excellent summary of why it is superior. It works very efficiently and effectively without getting in your face.

[HALLGATOR]

There have been a couple of cases where the Microsoft Security Essentials has found malware not found by McAfee. There was a discussion about that in this forum within the last 6 months or so. MSE is preferred by the vast majority of the technical folks who frequent this forum for many reasons but Jupgator gave an excellent summary of why it is superior. It works very efficiently and effectively without getting in your face.

This! No way I am going to pay for Norton or McAfee when good AVs like MSE are out there for free.

[panamacitygator]

Only reason I use Norton is it is free for Comcast customers. Other friends of mine use Avast which is free.

[cocodrilo]

So if I do stubbornly decide to install Norton on my new computer, while I am waiting for it to download the computer will be protected by Microsoft Security Essentials, right? So I want to have to sweat it out.

[HALLGATOR]

So if I do stubbornly decide to install Norton on my new computer, while I am waiting for it to download the computer will be protected by Microsoft Security Essentials, right? So I want to have to sweat it out.

That's not the best way to do it if you insist on wasting your money. Best thing is to download the program and save it. Then go off-line and unistall MSE. Then install Norton while you are off-line. That eliminates you being unprotected for any time at all while being on-line and it also eliminates 2 AVs running at the same time.

[cocodrilo]

Actually Norton is already paid for till June, since I can put it on more than one computer. I'm going to read up on Microsoft Security Essentials first (never heard of it till now) before I do anything on Norton. Thanks.

[cocodrilo]

When I posted the link to the HP Pavilion computer at Amazon.com that I was thinking of buying, the price was $649. I just went back to the site, and it says there are only 2 left in stock, and the price is now $792. How is that for price gouging?

Edit: Now it's $900. "Do I hear $1,000?"

[HALLGATOR]

I'm not going to definitely say that AVs you pay for might not be better but I do know from experience with my own computers and quite a few others that MSE and other free programs do an excellent job when coupled with common sense approaches to web surfing. I use this as well as Malwarebytes and some other things and have had excellent results. Doesn't mean I can't get an infection since they are coming out with new ways to screw people on an hour by hour basis but I am like a lot of people who stick with what works for them. The most important thing though is for you to do what you feel most comfortable with. I would hate to tell you to drop Norton and get MSE and a week later you come back and say your computer got infected. I really shouldn't have said you were wasting your money because that is not totally right.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

[cocodrilo]

I've found out that Microsoft discontinued MSE for Windows 8 (which I will now wind up getting). 8 has a program called Windows Defender, which works only if it detects that the computer does not have another anti-virus program. Since Defender is something new, and sounds sort of like a benchwarmer, I'll probably stay with Norton for peace of mind.

[HALLGATOR]

Don't rely on Window's Defender for sure. It's been around since Windows Vista and is not a true AV.

[demosthenes]

I bought my wife a 27" iMac last year. She loves the thing. I'm not a big fan of Apple but I'll admit to liking the iMac. Got a pretty good deal on a refurbished one directly from Apple. It's quiet, fast, and has amazing screen resolution.

As far as the printer goes, I'd go buy a new one and make sure it allows for wireless network printing. If you're going to get an all-in-one computer, don't clutter the area with a printer and cables.

[Juggernautz]

I got a great deal on a Epson Artison 835. Best all-in-one inkjet printer I've ever owned & it's wireless. Got it for $90 & also got a Samsung lazer(b&w only) ptr for $50.

[vaxcardinal]

i got an iMac last month and couldnt use my old reliable HP printer...ended up by a brother wireless printer/scanner/copier.

[orangeblueorangeblue]

I've found out that Microsoft discontinued MSE for Windows 8 (which I will now wind up getting).

MSE is technically built in to Windows 8.

Don't rely on Window's Defender for sure. It's been around since Windows Vista and is not a true AV.

It's been beefed up for Windows 8.

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/protect/forum/mse-protect_start/can-i-use-microsoft-security-essentials-with/34b26e6f-12a0-4bc7-b160-f3b2ff70b910

[HALLGATOR]

MSE is technically built in to Windows 8.



It's been beefed up for Windows 8.

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/protect/forum/mse-protect_start/can-i-use-microsoft-security-essentials-with/34b26e6f-12a0-4bc7-b160-f3b2ff70b910

Thanks, wasn't aware of that.

[gatorbronco]

I'm thinking of the HP Envy 20-d094 with 20" screen. It is a touch screen, but does not come with wireless mouse or keypad. I have a wireless mouse and the keypads are not that expensive. It can be purchased from Best Buy for $699.99 with free shipping.

[cocodrilo]

I'm thinking of the HP Envy 20-d094 with 20" screen.

Sounds good, I'll take a look at it. I have an 18" screen on my present Dell. For the life of me I don't understand why people need a 23" or 27" screen on a desktop computer, but they seem to be standard now. Is it to look at from across the room, or for the full impact of games or something? When I'm reading a computer screen, I don't want to have to keep turning my head like I'm watching a tennis match.