Path: utzoo!utgpu!jarvis.csri.toronto.edu!mailrus!tut.cis.ohio-state.edu!ucbvax!hplabs!hp-pcd!hplsla!kens
From: kens@hplsla.HP.COM (Ken Snyder)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.ibm.pc
Subject: Re: Gateway 2000 info
Message-ID: <5190058@hplsla.HP.COM>
Date: 15 Nov 89 22:03:44 GMT
References: <191@ns-mx.uiowa.edu>
Organization: HP Lake Stevens, WA
Lines: 34

Kevin writes:
> 
> One thing to note, however, is that DOS 4.01 (possibly 3.3) comes pre-loaded
> on the hard drive.  My guess is this mean that no manuals are included with
> the system.

  DOS comes on the hard drive which is completely configured to whatever you
specify (1 partition, 2...).  You get the choice of DOS 3.3 or DOS 4.01.  All
the manuals and original diskettes (mine were even unopened) come with the
system.
> 
> From my conversation with the salesman it sounds as if few, if any, parts of
> the package are etched in stone.  Instead, they're willing to change things
> around at the buyer's request.  Some changes cost money, some reduce the
> charge, some leave it alone.
> 
  You can configure whatever you'd like.  I had them upgrade the video card
($50), the monitor ($100) and add cache ($250).  I was also charged their
current charges for these upgrades which were less than advertised.

  I'd like to comment on an earlier allegation that their tech hotline is
less than responsive.  While it is true you cannot usually (ever) get through
directly to your assigned tech, once you have established contact and are
working on a problem, they ask you to tell the operator to hand carry a message
to them and they call you right back (as soon as the current call is over).
I've used this technique and always had my call returned within 5 minutes.  I
have also set up specific times to be called and they have been very prompt.
This contrasts with another company who always puts you on hold until a
tech becomes free.  I spent hours listening to their local radio station
waiting for a tech.  I prefer to be called back.

Just a happy customer,

Ken