Being a Tech Junkie vs a Realist
My Powerbook G3 laptop is in great need of replacement. It was purchased in January of 2001 right before Apple’s introduction of the Powerbook G4. Apple fans may know that the G3 Pismo is one of Apple’s finest achievements in the laptop world. The system could have been upgraded to the nine, with new processors, RAM, DVD recorders, larger hard drives, and secondary batteries. Also, the internals are easily accessible, allowing for simple upgrades.
My Pismo has only had a RAM upgrade and newer operating systems. With a replacement battery, that no longer holds a charge, and a new AC Adapter, I estimate that total cost of the system over 7 years of usage, has been $3000. That works out to about $400 per year so far. The problem is that, as mentioned, the battery is useless and the system is very slow. Even our six year old complains about the slowness. Also, the harddrive (10GB) is ver small and with version 10.4 of Mac OSX it can’t hold many extra apps. I do use an old version of Office, as well as Toast and MacJournal, but that is the extent of usage.
The tech junkie in me says that I should go out and purchase one of Apple’s latest offering, the MacBook or MacBook Pro.
These systems have been available for a couple of years now and the kink have presumably been worked out. They would last me quite a while based on past experiences.
The realist in me holds me back. First, where does the money come from? We have too much revolving debt right now, that we are just getting a handle on. Why add to that? Second, the Pismo still has some usability. It is not totally dead yet. yes I could get things done faster with a new system, but the cost is too much right now.
Score one for the realist in me! For now, I can just go to Best Buy or an Apple Store to play with the latest and greatest. Someday, I will be able to appeal Mr. Tech Junkie. Poor fellow.
Filed under: Journal, Technology
