Things to consider when buying a PC

CPU
Both AMD and  Intel make good - bang for the buck - processors.  Clock cycles are measured in MHz with larger numbers being faster.

Bus/Architecture
A fast 'bus' eliminates many bottlenecks.

Memory
Get a minimum of 256 MBs (Megabytes).

Hard Drive
Everythings measured in GB's (Gigabytes).  You will use more than you think.

CD-R/RW
No longer a luxury.

Modem
Forget the modem.  S...L...O...W... dialup is just about dead.  Get a NIC (network interface card) and connect to broadband (Cable, DSL, etc.)

Monitor
Get a 17" LCD monitor (or two).  Use/view it from a distance & live to see grandchildren.

Good hardware brands
Dell, Toshiba, IBM, HP, Gateway

Best Service
HP