Jeffro,
Thanks for the info. I am not very computer literate and only use one at work for very basic stuff. I have not had my personal home computer up and running for almost four years. It is a Compac from the late 1990's that by todays standards is I suppose only good for a boat anchor. I actually purchase the GP real flight sim back then and ran it for a short time on it. It worked okay except when getting the plane directly overhead or into some very demanding aerobatics. Those would cause the picture to freeze or "lock-up".

Based upon your previous comments it sounds like I could buy almost any new "off the shelf" system and have success running the current sims? I had the impression that video and/or sound card upgrades were almost a necessity to get decent sim performance. You mentioned "Craigs list". I am not familiar with him/that co?? Is he someone that builds or sells used systems?

I am a "seasoned" sport/pattern flyer but only get out to fly a few times a month the past few years. I am a beginner/intermediate 3Der and would love to have a sim to get more stick time. Do you have any recommendations for "off the shelf" systems or what should I focus on as the most important features for sims. I will read more of this forum as time permits but if you have any more advice I surely appreciated it.

As I hinted at previously....I do not "speak computer"....so do not assume I know any technical jargon....except the very basics...proc speed, memor, etc.

Thanks a lot,
Steve