Pat,

Here is a breakdown of what I need. The use of these computers is for
research (IRAF, Latex), administration, and CAD. In particular I am planning
some new observing projects and initiatives involving PANIC, perhaps WIRC,
and radio data reduction -- these plans as well as the obsolescence of my
existing systems are the motivating factors for an upgrade.

Regarding the Dell, this is just a sample configuration I pulled off their
web site, I can work with Paul on an exact configuration that will the
hardware standards that he is trying to maintain for administrative
efficiency. I have no idea why the Dell cost so much, but these numbers came
off Dell's Web site. Note that a comparable "white box" computer runs at
least $1000 less (I even found a comparable Compaq model for about $1400 or
so less). However, I want to cooperate with Paul on this as I need a
well-supported  "Carnegie Standard" machine for Latex, IRAF, etc. and such,
and this is what he strongly prefers now. As I recall we get about 15% off
list from Apple.

Thanks, David



Dell Precision 350n:
Intel 2.8 GHz Pentium, 512 MB RAM, RedHat 8, 120GB ATA100 drive, 48X CR-RW,
17" flat panel monitor, 3.5" diskette.
Price before OCIW discount and before tax/shipping: $3072

Apple Power Mac:
. Power Mac G4 Dual 1.42GHz w/2MB L3 per proc.
. 512MB DDR333 SDRAM (PC2700) - 1 DIMM
. 120GB Ultra ATA drive
. Optical 1 - Apple SuperDrive
. Optical 2 - None
. ATI Radeon 9000 Pro w/64MB DDR
. Apple Studio Display (17" flat panel)
. 56K internal modem
. Apple Pro Keyboard - U.S. English
. Mac OS - U.S. English
Price before OCIW discount and before tax/shipping: $3398

Microsoft Office for Mac: $199 (CalTech Book store price)