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Yeah, I remember punch cards and numbering my cards too in case I dropped them. Sounds like we have similar backgrounds. Have you considered building your own computer? There are still plenty of Windows 7 OEM DVD's out on the market at relatively cheap prices.

I've been building my own computers for years now. (Since @ 1988.) You can typically build a much higher quality computer for much less than buying one "off the shelf."

It takes a little knowledge and reading component specifications to make sure the parts you buy are compatible, from there putting together a modern computer is pretty darn simple. Always helps if you have a friend who can help you through your first build as I did. After that, once you know how to spec out your system and put it together it's a breeze.

I built the computer I'm using right now from components I selected myself. If I told you what it was and what it cost me to build it myself you'd likely be surprised. Systems that are similar to mine sell for several hundreds of dollars more than I paid to build it myself.

Between building the computer (putting the parts together) and installing the OS took me about 90 minutes. I used to be able to do it much faster however old age, arthritis and failing eyesight (need cheaters!) slows one down a bit.

BTW: I won't argue the "uptake" on Windows 8 compared to Windows XP or Windows 7. Yep, Microsoft is heavily relying on bundling the OS with New PC's to drive their numbers up. That's part of covering up their mistake, changing their Desktop OS to look like an XBox. You'll get no argument from me there!

Best Regards
USC