P.S.--you're also correct that this is evolving into a primer on purchasing new computers--it's always best when a misfortune can generate discussion and knowledge for others. It has only been about 18 months since my last computer purchase (the Dell for the kids) yet so much of the equipment has advanced in the computing world.

I've been having bits of this conversation on two or three threads--software in one venue, hardware in another. I'll add a link or two when I get a moment to go looking for the rest of the discussion.

SRS