Bill wrote:

I accidentally deleted the post, but someone (Jack?) wrote that
he was tired of hardware systems lasting only 3 years.

It seems that systems sold at retail (Best Buy?) are built that
way, so that you come back to replace them. If you assemble your
own, using quality components, you can expect it to have a
lifetime alot longer than 3 years..long enough the you'll
probably be ready to replace the system for other reasons before
it stops. The purchase price will be a bit higher. But you will
also be in a much better position to service it if you want to
upgrade it. I just wanted to mention that this alternative option
is available. I think that once you do it, you'll never again
settle for someone else's choices (in a system).

Bill

+1

Couldn't agree more, Bill!
The Commodore C64 was the only 'retail' computer I've ever owned.
Current config:
2 full tower 'In Win' cases I bought in '96, populated with rock solid
11yr old Intel CPU's / Gigabyte motherboards. One of which stays on
pretty much 24/7, and has since 2010.

During those 11 years, I've only _had_ to replace (due to failure) 1
stick of ram, a video card, and a Samsung hard drive (bought on a
whim). I've also replaced 3 case fans, power supply, and the stock Intel
heatsink/fan due to noisy, squeaking fans.

Once per year (usually Spring) I remove the covers and blow the dust
out, wheather they need it or not. ;-)