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 Quantum Computers, LLC has been Producing Custom Built Computers since 1997. We originally started building High End Desktop models for customers who wanted Top of the Line Systems. In 2002 we were introduced to the QXCI Biofeedback System (now known as the EPFX Serial Device). In January of 2004 we purchased our own SCIO Device (now known as the EPFX USB Device) Since then we have developed a whole new approach to our computer business because we found that there was a need in the computer industry for specific computer assistance to the EPFX practitioner. To make a very long story short, we developed a line of Laptop Computers that are specifically configured for using the EPFX software. The specifications of each computer listed on this website, meet or exceed the current specifications required for using it with either of the EPFX devices (the serial EPFX requires a serial port...ports are listed within the specifications of each laptop).
The standard question that almost everyone asks is "What are the minimum specifications required for my EPFX?" That is a good question! If you look at your EPFX brokers website, they should have an updated listing of minimum specifications. We have set up this website with selected laptop models that meet or exceed "Our" specifications for the EPFX. That's right, we set our own standards based on our extensive knowledge of computers and the EPFX device and software. This "knowledge" comes from years of experience in computer applications including our personal use of the EPFX devices since 2002.
We have several Customized Models shown on this website. Currently the 2 most popular models are the QC570RUU and the QCFL92-2, the most obvious reason is that they are the Newest models available. They both have the 2nd generation Core 2 Duo (Santa Rosa) Processor. The QC570RUU is the model with the highest specifications, the best LCD screen and several upgrade options are available (call for details). The QCFL92-2 is the lowest price, but it also is a very nice laptop with the newest technology. In May of 2008 we upgraded this 15.4" model from the 1280 x 800 resolution to get a little closer to the optimum screen, without making the text too small to read. Even at this new resolution, the 1680 x 1050 resolutions of our 17" laptops is still a much nicer option for the EPFX Device and the Clasp32 Program.
Some people look at our computers and question the prices. We actually encourage that! Yes, our prices seem higher than what you can get from another company or department store...Why? Have you ever heard the expression "You get what you pay for"? Well, that statement is true when it comes to buying a laptop computer. There are few "Deals" when it comes to laptop computers. Look very closely at the specifications and service features and you'll see what we mean. If the price is lower somewhere else...there's usually a reason for it. Look at the computer market today, there is so much competition and really there isn't a lot of markup in laptops. A laptop company usually makes their margins on the add-on features and services. Such as carrying bags, mice, warranties, in-home service contracts etc. They don't make a huge profit on the laptop itself. In fact, many companies will sell a laptop at their cost and make the profit in the add-ons. I invite you to go to the "Name-Brand" websites and look at their base models...yes the prices look appealing don't they? Now start adding on the features you need. The prices start adding up and before you know it that $500 laptop is now over $2000. That's called "Marketing"!
Another reason for our pricing is that along with the laptop purchase, you also get access to our special services. How many computer companies do you know that specialize in the EPFX? That's right, we are currently the only one. We custom build and customize laptops FOR the EPFX users. That is what we do! When you purchase your computer from a department store, will they help you when you have a problem? Sure, they'll ship your computer across the country to their main repair facility and it'll take 2 to 6 weeks to get it back! If you purchase from a local Computer specialist, they may respond faster but will they have the most common parts in stock? Will they understand how to set up your software so you don't get any conflicts within the software? Are they going to bend over backwards for you if you have a hard drive crash or some other computer fatality? Chances are that the answers are all no. We understand what you do with your computer. We understand that most of you are in clinics and professional settings. We understand what it means to have to cancel all of your appointments for the next week or two because you have a computer problem. So the first thing we do is attempt to lower your chances of such an incident before you get your computer. This is by setting up the software in a special way. If you do experience technical problems, we have emergency systems in place to get you back up and running in a very quick manner. We recommend our Safety options at additional cost but if you choose not to purchase the best option, then we just work really fast to help you in your time of need.
So, what if you don't know much about computer specifications? Well, that’s why you need the assistance of someone who understands what you are using the computer for. We understand the EPFX, the software and what problems can and will be experienced with your usage of the computer. Yes, we have to be realistic...you will experience software or hardware problems somewhere down the road. Our computers are good, they are reliable, but they are electronic devices and will sometimes have failures. (The majority of the problems that have been experienced with the EPFX has been software related problems which are usually handled quickly through your EPFX Broker's Technical Support Department) Electronic failures can be caused by many things, we won't get into all that detail here, but just know this...we understand that downtime costs you time, money and sometimes even embarrassment. No one likes to have a client in the office and then experience a computer problem. That is why we have developed the safety options that will be explained on the computer pages. Look on the product page for Data Safety Options. Also, we work very fast to help you get back up and running in the event of a true hardware problem. Keep in mind that if you are working with paying clients, you should always have a spare or backup computer to work with "just in case" you do have technical issues....that is a must!
Now, the real question is...which computer is going to suit your needs the best? Well, that can only be answered by you. But here are a few factors to consider:
Screen Size 15.4" or 17"
17" is larger and easier to read the text due to the screen size.
15.4" is smaller and usually weighs a little less.
However, the screen resolution is really the key factor. 1280 x 1024 is required to actually view the entire Clasp32 Software Package - at least with the current July 2006 version or any older version. Your computer can have a lower standard resolution if you don't mind using a scrolling feature (sometimes called "Panning" feature). Be sure you understand what the scrolling feature is BEFORE you purchase your lower resolution screen. The 1440 x 900 resolution is very close to the optimum 1280 x 1024, however there are a couple of text lines at the bottom of some of the screens that get partially cut off with this resolution, but at least you can see everything.
The important part about this resolution issue is that the lower resolutions are less expensive, but once you make the decision and buy a laptop, you usually can't return it without paying a premium restocking fee. We also will charge a restocking fee because there are shipping costs, repackaging costs, and once a laptop has been used/owned it can no longer be sold as a new computer which also costs money...therefore a restocking fee is reasonable.
Speed:
There are several factors to consider for speed. You want to consider the processor type and speed; RAM (memory) type and speed; video or graphics type and amount of memory; and the hard drive speed. All of these actually work together. Some computer companies will not tell you these details in their advertising of their products. Usually that is because they don't want you to know that something is actually slower than you might want it to be.
Weight:
People are generally concerned about the weight of the laptop. The question is...how often will you actually carry it? Some people do travel a lot, but most of you will leave it sitting on the desk almost all the time. Carefully consider this when deciding the size versus the weight difference. To get a lighter weight laptop, you usually have to sacrifice something...screen size, battery time, etc.
CD or DVD Drive:
DVD Rom is required as a minimum. For the minimal price difference, consider the DVD-RW drive, it allows you to "burn" DVD's as well as CD's and helps the resale value when you decide to sell it and get the newer model years down the road. You'll notice that all of our systems have a DVD-RW Drive...it really doesn't make sense to get less than a DVD-RW these days.
Internet:
Do you really need to use this computer on the internet? Most people have some other computer access to get on the internet. It is a protection to your computer reliability if you chose to keep this laptop off the internet. However, it is good to have internet access should you want to participate in EPFX IRB studies etc. Also good for remote technical assistance should you need it. We are currently testing the new option for internet updates for your Clasp32 program. So far it looks like that is going to be the new way to get your upgrades to the software. We are also working directly with The Quantum Alliance, Inc. on many projects...soon all of their training documentation will be in the electronic format and updates will be done via the internet. We recommend that you try to keep minimal internet use on your main EPFX computer for obvious reasons, however the intenet can be a very useful tool In our opinion, it is a vital need. Malicious Internet Activity can be a major problem if you don't have the proper virus protection. Even with proper Virus Protection, New Viruses are being implemented every day! Please be cautious when using the internet for your own data protection. If you need help in this area, we can assist you in this area.
We have been using Norman Virus Control Software on our EPFX computers and also our entire office has been using it as well since 2004. We have had great success with it. That is why Norman is the ONLY virus protection software that we recommend, sell and support. We do not Support FREE virus protection software, nor do we suggest using it. Remember that "you get what you pay for". Yes you can get some programs for free, but they aren't the full versions of the software...that means they don't give you the best protection that company offers. If you have ever experienced a difficult computer virus, you would understand. Another thing to think about when using a FREE virus protection software. When it is FREE, how much money do you think the company puts into the necessary continuous research and developmnent to keep that software up to date? It's something to considder isn't it? Please don't take the option to learn the hard way. You will not be very happy when you lose everything on your computer because of a virus or other malicious software! For details on Norman Software please look on our Norman Products page or call us for details.
We also have several more models that are in the Discontinued / Used / and/or Refurbished Laptops section of the Products page...Some are also not shown on the website. Some of these models are used for general computer use and some as a lower cost Backup Computer. (Every Practitioner who uses the EPFX for paying clients should have a backup computer just in case they experience technical dificulties. This helps eliminate valuable downtime should that experince ever occur) It is best to call for our assistance when looking at these Used and Discontinued models. Since many of the computer models change so quickly, on this website we only feature the ones we feel are "Worthy" of being used with your EPFX devices! Other models start at about $800 and go up...some of those models will not get our special software setup (mainly because the computer isn't enough computer for the task!). If you are interested in one of these other models, please call for details.
** One of the most important features of your Laptop Computer purchase should be ... Support. We are a small business. That is actually a "Good" feature not a drawback. A small business is able to focus on supporting the customer after the sale. Large computer companies will sometimes hire out their support services. In most cases, the support technicians do not even live in the same country that you live in. Not that it really matters where they live, but do they understand your needs? Do they know what you use your computer for? Do they understand the problems that relate directly to your use of the Laptop? In most cases, the answer is always NO. Quantum Computers understands the problems that relate to the use of your EPFX devices and software. Why? Because we use the EPFX device too! We also have worked with the Clasp32 software since 2002. If you give us a call and ask for more details on how we support you after your purchase, we are confident you'll decide to go for the quality of our Laptops as well as our service. We can also give references from some of our customers if you desire.
If you compare all of the features and specifications of our Laptops with any other on the market, you will find that our pricing is as competitive as any other large computer manufacturer. You really have to compare well though, because on the surface, the other laptops may look lower priced....call us for details on how to get an ACCURATE comparison. You'll be glad you did! We are very serious about our computers!
Some have made the comment that our computers are a "No Name" computer, or a "Clone". Consider some facts about the computer industry, you'll be glad you took the time to read this!
Click on this link for more info - Brand Names
At Quantum Computers, LLC., Our BASE computers are manufactured by Clevo, Compal, MSI, & Asus. They come off the same assembly lines as Dell, HP, Toshiba, Compaq and other big Marketing Companies. The big difference is that we configure them specifically for the EPFX and we have specialized service and support for EPFX users.
We appreciate that you took the time to read all of that. But there's more!
Please consider this...why spend $20,000 for a biofeedback device and then go cheap on the "Brain" that runs the device? Would you want your biofeedback device to have to "wait" for the computer to keep up with it? It really doesn't make sense does it. That is why we have specified these models above. These are models that you can be more than satisfied with, you will be relieved when you get it delivered, turn it on, and realize you made the right decision. We guarantee that you will not be disappointed by offering you a 15 day return policy! (That policy has a clause that if the computer is scratched, damaged, or parts are missing, then deductions will be made in your refund for repairs needed if you decide to return it in such condition. Unfortunately we have to implement such a policy because some people are careless with their computers...15 days is more than enough time for a person to decide)
If you read all of the above and still want to shop around, you must first be sure you are considering the following factors:
1) Price is not the only Factor.
2) Screen Size & Video Graphics: 15", 15.4", 16.1", 17", All will work, but the larger the screen means the more you will see. Also the screen resolution should be at least 1280 x 1024 if you want to see the entire Clasp32 Software. The 1440 x 900 resolution is very close to the optimum 1280 x 1024, however there are a couple of text lines at the bottom of some of the screens that get partially cut off with this resolution, but at least you can see everything. Yes, less resolution means there are areas of the program that you will not be able to see. Certain screens in the program do not give you scroll bars. 1280 x 800 resolution may work well with a scrolling feature. Scrolling or Panning is where you set the resolution higher than the screen is actually made for. Then your viewing area is actually outside the extents of the screen. You actually "Scroll" your screen - the image on the screen moves up/down left/right as you move your cursor. It works, however it can be a nuisance. The Video card should also have at least 128MB video memory (64MB will work, but the new program upgrades may change that) Usually you can not upgrade the video memory on laptops. You also want to be aware that DEDICATED Video or Discrete Graphics is a better choice than Shared video (sometimes called integrated graphics) - unless you get at least 1GB of Ram...1GB should be more than plenty of memory to share! You'll notice that all of our models on this website use Dedicated Graphics. Also please keep in mind that these comments are related to Windows XP, Not Vista. The Vista Operating System will change alomost everything we say on this page. New information about Windows Vista will be coming very soon.
3) Speed: Here are my minimum recommendations for your computer processor... Intel Pentium 4 3.0Ghz or higher, AMD Athlon 64 3200+ or higher, AMD Athlon XP 3200+ or Higher, Intel Centrino (Pentium M) 1.73GHz or higher, Intel Core Duo/Core 2 Duo 1.6GHz or higher, AMD Turion 1.8 GHz or higher. Try to avoid Celeron, Sempron and other slower processors...you won't be happy with the speed (or should I say "lack of speed"). Today the industry standard is the Intel Core2 Duo Processors.
4) RAM: Minimum of 512MB. more is highly recommended. You'll notice that all of our computers on this website have at least 1 GB of RAM. As previously mentioned if you get the Windows Vista Operating System, it will change everything...You'll need a minimum of 2GB of 667GHz DDR2 RAM.
5) Hard Drive: most new computers will have at least 40GB which is fine if you are dedicating your laptop to the EPFX only. Most people in the EPFX field will probably never use all of 40 GB. Speed is something different...if the computer does not show the spinning speed of the Hard Drive, it is most likely 4200 rpm (SLOW). The 5400 rpm drive is much better. A 7200 rpm drive is the faster drive but the faster the drive the hotter it gets. Few manufacturers use them because their laptops can’t handle the heat. That is one way I can tell if a laptop has guts, is if they offer it in a 7200 rpm model. Additionally, if you find a SATA or S-ATA hard drive rather than an ATA or P-ATA hard drive (Industry Standard) it is faster yet. The SATA drives also run cooler than the standard ATA drives. Note: a 60GB 5400 rpm SATA is not faster than a 60GB 7200rpm ATA drive...do not be misled- when I say faster, I mean faster than the same speed ATA drive. Todays industry Standard is now 80GB or larger 5400rpm SATA.
6) DVD Rom or DVD+/-R/RW only. Do not get a standard CD-Rom Drive or CDRW drive or you'll never be able to install the Clasp program and upgrades unless you have other special equipment. Sometimes you'll see a reference to the new Super Multi Drive which means it is also a DVD-RW drive which is excellent.
7) Additional features: this depends on if you are dedicating your laptop to EPFX work or using it for Internet, other business, personal etc. Another factor to consider is its resale value...when you are ready to upgrade to a new laptop (average 3 years) the more features you have on it will give it more value at the time of resale. Its a judgment call.
8) Operating System: Most low priced laptops will have XP Home Edition which will work fine. The Current Clasp32 program is designed to work on Windows XP Home or Professional. XP Media Center will work too because it is based on the XP Pro platform, but its more expensive and has additional features that are not necessary. Currently the program does not work properly with any Windows Vista version. The programmers are working on a new Vista version but we have no idea when it will be ready to be released. It is very difficult to get a computer without Vista already installed from many manufacturers or department stores these days...please be careful if you are looking elsewhere for a computer.
9) Additional Programs: We install additional programs which are needed to read the Help Manual and other documents in the Clasp program. On any standard system we will install the free version of Open Office (www.openoffice.org) which is similar to Microsoft Office. It will open any Microsoft Word, Excel or PowerPoint file and allow you to edit or create these file types. You can also create and save documents in the Microsoft Office formats with this Open Office program. On request, I can load the Microsoft Office Viewers, which are True versions of Microsoft Office programs that allow you to view the files only and not create new files. Some Computers on the open market will give you the Microsoft Student and Teacher edition of Office. Be aware that many companies will market that they include Microsoft Office 2007 version...many times it is only a trial version of the software good for 30, 60 or 90 days. Also there are additional software services mentioned above that are included in my prices. You wont be getting this feature from anyone else. No one else optimizes a computer for the EPFX like we do, I'm sure of that!
10) When you search for computers on the internet, be aware that many lower priced computers are refurbished...some are advertised as refurbs and some companies will sell refurbs as new computers. We occasionally will sell a refurbished computer, but only to those asking for them. Don't get me wrong, some used computers are excellent...you just need to be informed and know what you are actually getting.
All of that said, after shopping around you'll see that our pricing is more than reasonable. The extra benefit of purchasing from someone who knows your usage of the laptop, and who can understand your problems if they arise (Hardware OR Software related problems) can not be measured with a dollar sign. I believe that covers everything.
We hope to hear from you soon!
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