Tech Watch | InfoWorld Staff » Replacing an Old Friend

September 29, 2004 | Comments: (0)

Replacing an Old Friend

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I replaced an old friend last week - my 1997 vintage 19-inch monitor. I re-placed it with - no big surprise - a brand new 19-inch flat panel monitor from NEC-Mitsubishi Electric Visual Systems.

My old 1997 version is a boat anchor by comparison. I knew that the moment the UPS man scowled in disgust when he delivered it years ago. Most people didn't have 19-inch monitors then, but I knew I would be working on my system day and night, so I sprang for the larger screen.

It covered my desk so completely; I had to move my keyboard to the side until I finally added an extension. The box it came in wouldn't fit in my slightly-smaller-than-average attic doorway. I considered making a dog house out of the box, but hated the thought that my dog might have more bedrooms than I did. Despite its size, weight and general bulkiness, the ViewSonic 19-inch monitor did the job - it saved my eyes from continual squinting and eye strain.

I can't recall how much the thing cost. I know it was a premium product at the time and cost more than the flat panel that sleekly stands on my desk like an unobtrusive picture frame. When the new monitor showed up on my doorstep, I could lift it with one hand and if I tried to make a doghouse out of it, I'd be turned into the SPCA.

My old monitor is going to a family with four kids in school and an old 15-inch monitor. The father in the family asked me how much I wanted for it and I told him it was free: as long as he moved it.

- Bob Francis

Posted by Jack McCarthy on September 29, 2004 01:49 PM

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