THE WINDS OF CHANGE...

Technology does not move to the horizon, then wait patiently
for us to paddle over. Instead it continues on a steady
course that requires us to climb aboard and ride the waves
or be stranded on an island in a vast ocean of
unsupported and practically useless "older" technology.

Thus, VGA graphics, high density floppy drives, hard drives
and Windows have become integral parts of the typical PC
computer setup. Computer upgrades now revolve around SVGA
graphics, optical drives, huge hard drives, more powerful
Windows software, 586 (Pentium) or Power PC computers,
personal laser printers, and other items that once would
have been fodder for a futuristic dream.

That On Disk Monthly is steadily moving toward incorporating
the typical setup described above into its minimum system
requirements should not surprise you. Your demands for
higher resolution graphics and Windows items are echoed by
millions of other computer owners who also have VGA graphics
capabilities and who regularly use Windows--especially since
it comes pre-installed on many new computers. Our goal is to
produce a product that will meet the demands and standards
of the majority of both current AND potential subscribers.


          MY ADVICE:  UPGRADE YOUR COMPUTER NOW...

There is no better time than the present to start saving
your money for a computer upgrade (or for purchasing a brand
new one). Yes, money is always a problem, but it is possible
to put aside a little money every payday if you're serious
about it and stay focused on the end result. Yes, I know
there may be nothing "wrong" with your current computer
except that it's not state-of-the-art, but a computer is NOT
a microwave oven. Think about it. As long as your microwave
continues to work, it will cook ANY food (the software of
your microwave) that you want to cook. However, unlike food,
software constantly mutates--and these new mutations won't
always work in your old computer...maybe not at all.

Let's talk prices. If you have at least a 286 machine, you
can upgrade a low density floppy disk drive to high density
for $40-$80, depending on how much time you spend looking
for the best deal and whether or not YOU do the
installation. You can upgrade from CGA/EGA to VGA or even
SVGA for around $300-$400. And, depending on your computer,
you can add 1 megabyte of RAM (a simm chip) for $35 or more;
this will give your computer a total of 2 megabytes of
RAM--the minimum suggested for Windows. (Note: while you can
upgrade an XT in some ways, your best bet may be to upgrade
it to a 286/12MHz or to buy a new computer. Consult a
computer dealer about your options.) Finally, you can add a
40 megabyte hard drive to your system (including a
controller card) for under $200. If you really love
computing, you'll want to investigate this further.


      HOW TO HANDLE YOUR "I HATE WINDOWS" FEELINGS...

Some of you LOVE Windows. Some of you HATE Windows. Some of
you, bless you, are gracious enough to admit that while you
don't own Windows, many people do; therefore, you don't
resent finding a Windows item or two on your monthly disk.

If you're a Windows "hater," remember the following when you
feel the urge to shout anti-Windows slogans:

*  Your best friend may own and love Windows. Wouldn't want
   to insult your best friend, would you?
*  Your best friend may own and love a Macintosh which has a 
   very similar desktop and is a passion-inspiring machine.
*  You won't find a more consistent interface--graphic or
   otherwise. If you can use one program, you can use them
   all!
*  You just might like the "visual aids" that Windows
   provides. Sometimes, it's really nice not to have to keep
   all that command line stuff in your brain...or taped to
   your computer for reference.
*  It probably supports your printer--whatever the brand.
*  It won't go away just because you want it to. And no,
   praying probably won't help.
*  Some of the best new software is being created with
   Windows in mind. Graphics programs have never been more
   appealing or easier to use.
*  The view is always better from the other side of the
   "window."

                                  Until next month,
                                  Ronda Faries
                                  ODM Editorial Director