Updating My Technology

These days, anything old school has a cool factor. I must admit, I like it that way. Of course, this is just a matter of sticking a new label on nostalgia. Think of all the terms we use to describe old stuff in a positive way. Like retro and vintage (as opposed to old-fashioned and passe). When newly used, these terms seem to make folks feel that they are the first ones to recycle old ideas.

Is it our desire to be creative and hip that moves us to feel that by applying new terms to old things, we are doing something unique? It shouldn't. After all, people have been aping old behaviors and trends since, well, since humans were apes. (Note to Sarah P---this actually did happen).

When it comes to technology though, old school stuff just doesn't cut it. If you don't keep your technological gadgets at least somewhat current, they become useless, functionally obsolete. Especially computers, with cell phones and tv's close behind.

What makes me think of this is the new Dell computer the FedEx guy delivered to me yesterday. I'm about to try setting it up, but before launching into that frustrating but ultimately rewarding effort (that's what I'm predicting anyway, being a total technology klutz), I thought I should post one last blog entry on this outdated piece of machinery.

Too many knowledgeable friends have assured me that this old processor is too slow and needs to be put out to pasture. Here I imagine a lovely green field with miles of freshly painted fence surrounding hundreds of computers in an untended herd a la Far Side which I still miss.

The new computer holds the promise of breakneck speed plus the allure of a 24 inch high definition widescreen, unencumbered by any of those pesky old cables that are soooo 2006. Still, part of me feels unfaithful to this keyboard, monitor and processor which, for the most part, served me very well. Sure, there were times when things didn't go quite right, and I generally felt like it was more its fault than mine, but overall, she served me well and I know I will miss her, with a mourning period that will last right up to the point the new Dell and I have established a solid working relationship. Figure a week.