HBA posts on "Box" computers HERE,
responding to Prokofy's post HERE.

My two braincells' worth:

Although it would be good if SL could work on “box” computers, I have to say I’ve never, ever bought a box computer. I call up my computer men and say, “I want to do XYZ,*” then they build me something that does XYZ. They put the money into things that are meaningful.
We always go back and forth, with me saying, "I want ╚," and them saying, "No, that would cost 4 times more with .1 increase in capability and here's why...," and me making them explain why most of my ideas aren't good until I go back to their original suggestion. Then they build it and test it, and tell me how exciting it is. It's brought here and set up, and we goof around for an hour. The Derek leaves and I dip my bread in it for a few hours.

Although that may not be possible for lots of people, it seems like it's a better way to go. Computers are like cars; box computers are like a convertible-HUMVEE-camper van-sportscar-pickup truck-three cylinder-funny car-electric powered-dump truck-luxury sedan that attempts to be all things to all people. Whenever I look at the websites the computers seem very expensive and not very useful.

That said, yes, it should be easier and it has had a negative impact that it is a rather occult process. I always thought someone/thing reliable should've set up a business selling SL guaranteed computers inworld, and I think someone sort of did something like that, but although I poked around I never quite managed to see anything at the time. What Prokofy says about puters-in-the-mail is true, in some respects, as a damaged-or-otherwise-borked machine might be delivered, but a lot of puters go through ok.

Ages ago I made a suggestion about having various official viewers, and I don't see why there can't be a choice when one signs up, from Family Computer - very low graphics to Gamer Rig - ZOMG teh bellz n whistles.

If you can't run WindLight or have low fps look into these viewers:
Nicholaz Viewers

There are other viewers (use at your own discretion) including Kirstenlee Cinquetti's ShadowDraft and others for SL and OpenLife, the Cool Viewer, OnRez Viewer (I think it still works), and others.

There are choices due to the great work of generous people, and it's much appreciated. If you are having troubles experiment a bit.

* Say, video editing, or SL, or whatever I am involved in at the moment.

Labels: Blawg, puter, Questions to ponder