Q: My PC monitor has quit working. I prefer the CRT model rather than a flat screen. What would be the best way to find one of these? There are probably hundreds sitting around somewhere.
— Verland Blaney
A: New and refurbished CRT — the old picture tube type — monitors are still available. If you use a Google search like "CRT used refurbished" you'll find many options.
But my guess is that you're looking for a real bargain price. And you're right, many of these monitors are gathering dust — including three in my basement. The best bet would be to haunt a few yard sales. You'll find some excellent used ones for $25 to $50 and I wouldn't be surprised if you stumble across a few you could have free.
Q: Recently a friend said he would like to help in buying a new computer. However, I have no idea what is currently out there and what a reasonable price would be. He wants to kick in $1,200. I don't know if that will cover it or how much I will need on my part to make up the difference for all that I might need or want.
— Lisa Dixon
A: With a $1,200 budget you can buy an excellent PC and have enough left to go out for several fancy dinners. The sweet spot for PCs right now is at about $800.
Almost any brand name computer in that price range will take care of all typical computing needs. It'll have either a duo-core or quad-core processor and a hard disk of 640 gigabytes or better.
I do recommend a machine with a separate video card. Some PCs, especially the least expensive ones, use an integrated card that borrows from the machine's main memory chips.
Q: In the past couple of weeks, AVG Free on my PC has started popping up an Upgrade "nag" screen. If I wanted to upgrade I would have done so after the first nag appeared. I don't need to be constantly "nagged" to do something I have no intention of doing.
— Lewis Turner
A: Those nags are well-named because they are annoying. But it's smart to do the upgrade. In some cases it's essential as software makers change versions. But in almost every case the upgrade is worthwhile. So do what I do when faced with nags from my wife — comply quickly and get it over with.
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