I recently purchased a Gateway computer, model DX4822-03, in order to upgrade to Windows 7.
The configuration is great. It runs on an Intel 2 Quad Q.8400 Processor at 2,66 GHz, has 8 gigs of RAM, a terrabyte hard drive and NVIDIA GeForce GT220 graphic adapter with a gig of discete RAM dedicated to video.
The only problems I encountered when installing and using the computer were (1) the VGA hookup did not function, forcing me to buy a new monitor that worked with the HDMI port, and (2) after checking the Control Panel upon installation, I discovered the computer itself needed troubleshooting because the "Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter" was inoperative.
I was not overly concerned about the monitor problem -- it only gave me an excuse to upgrade to a wide screen LCD far superior to the CRT I'd been using. The failure to detect the wifi adapter problem was more troubling. I think Gateway should not sell a computer without first checking to see if there exist problems with the drivers installed on it. This was not a hidden flag -- all one had to do was look at the hardware control panel to see the triangular yellow sign with black exclamation point next to the computer icon. Even more importantly, the faulty driver still did not work after troubleshooting. In fairness to Gateway, I should mention that this problem hasn't had any effect on the machine's otherwise totally splendid performance.
Conclusion: The Gateway is an extremely powerful machine and a great value at less than $800; but the company needs to improve its quality control procedures.
