Cable or DSL? Mac or PC? FAQs answered

• Cable or DSL? I get a lot of questions about specific connections. Everyone wants broadband, and there are more ways to get it today. When you are considering an ISP, ask about upload speeds (the speed you can send things to the Internet) and download speeds (the speed at which stuff comes to you). Obviously the latter is the most important, but upload speed also is important if you are a gamer or send large files around.
  For info on your specific ISP, head to Broadband Reports, www.dslreports.com, and check on how current users are faring. Do keep in mind that whiners tend to post and happy people don't, so factor that in.

• Laptop or desktop? This used to be a no-brainer because of the price difference. Today, I would opt for a laptop with a large screen — except for the gaming. If you're a gamer, you need a desktop to have the video processing power and the big screen. But I think laptops are now the right choice for most normal computer users.

• PC or Mac? Nothing is more of a divisive issue in computing today. But Mac users actively advocate their choice. If you say something crummy about IBM or Dell, you never get a letter. Say something nasty about a Mac and villagers gather at your house carrying torches and pitchforks. It comes from being an underdog; at best, Apple has only about 5 percent of the market. But their product is very nice.
  In my view, the answer is software-driven. If the software you plan to use is available for both platforms, then Apple is the most elegant choice. Their stuff just feels better. The PC is the more frugal, universal choice.

• Flat panel or monitor? No question that flat panel monitors are the future, but please heed — unless your PC supports digital video, there's no reason. I see many people buy flat panels and then run them in analog mode. There's simply no real benefit other than desk space. If you buy a panel, make sure it supports DVI (digital video) and that your PC's video card supports DVI as well. There are some dynamite deals on conventional monitors now, so consider that as well. Sometimes the best value is to buy a flat-panel with a new PC.

  WEEKLY WEB WONDER: I am having a ball on Rootsweb checking out my ancestors. Check it out at www.rootsweb.com.

James Derk is new media editor for The Evansville Courier & Press. His e-mail address is jderk@evansville.net.