Thanks to everyone who shared their experience and advice in response to my request for help; I appreciate it a great deal. Since I've owned an embarrassing number of Powerbooks myself (170, 190, Duo 280c, Duo 2300, 520, a 2400 and now a Tibook), I knew a lot of the pros and cons, but felt I could use some fresh outside perspectives. After all, what I might like or need in a Powerbook isn't necessarily what a 10-year-old novice would need, and there are advantages and disadvantages to each model. All the input you gave me helped clarify the decision.
I tried to filter all this info to my Windows sister, and ultimately she decided to go with a 540c. The active matrix color screen, full-size keyboard, built-in floppy, and plethora of ports swayed her, but cost was also a big consideration. We found one with a new PRAM battery, and since my niece will run the computer primarily off AC, the status of the two used batteries isn't an issue. The fact that it's 68k doesn't bother her, as I have a lot of vintage software she can use, and she's not worried about future upgradeability. (Ha! She sees this as a temporary foray into the Mac world. Little does she realize that she will probably be converted.) A big thanks again to everyone who helped. Nancy Butts -- PowerBooks is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... Small Dog Electronics http://www.smalldog.com | Enter To Win A | -- Canon PowerShot Digital Cameras start at $299 | Free iBook! | Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> PowerBooks list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/powerbooks.shtml> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; Send list messages to: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> For digest mode, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subscription questions: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/powerbooks%40mail.maclaunch.com/> Using a Mac? Free email & more at Applelinks! http://www.applelinks.com
