A number of companies produce personal computers which are compatible with the ~IBM~ standard. Compaq, Dell, Gateway, Epson, NCC, Blue Star, Wyse and Everex and many other developers offer these systems and components at discount rates. Prices in the computer industry are extremely volatile. For example, when a new generation of hardware comes on the market, the previous generation can plummet in price, even though it is still quite powerful. A good rule of thumb to use when shopping for computers is to consider future, as well present needs. With this in mind, look for a system which can perform your present tasks, and can be upgraded to handle future demands.
