I'm an aging American male, married with kids. I have had plenty of experience at saying I am wrong.

Over the past year or so I have changed my views about plenty of things. Don't get me wrong here. Lots of what I believe has stayed the same --- I still think a bacon-and-egg sandwich is gourmet cuisine and that technical support and customer service is at an all-time low.

But some of my positions are shifting. We'll talk about that today. As always I enjoy it when readers agree or disagree, so jump right in if you think my shifts are a good or a bad thing.

Extended warranties

I've been consistent over the years in telling you to avoid them. Lately I've found exceptions to that position.

For instance, if you're buying an $8,000 HDTV I think an extended warranty is worth considering. The technology is new, and projection and plasma sets use technology that is not as tried and true as the picture tube. Laptop computers are another gadget that can be expensive to repair, so extra protection might be justified.

I'm not saying do it, just suggesting you look at the cost of the extended warranty and the repair records of the device and keep an open mind. If the extended warranty costs more than 25 percent of the purchase price, I still think it's a bad idea. But some people need the security of knowing that they won't have unexpected repair expenses. If you're in that group, an extended warranty may give you peace of mind.

Macintosh computers

Neither PCs nor Macs are perfect, and I've explained that I use and like both platforms. That's still true.

But the Macintosh has a virtue that has tugged at me lately. It does a better job at staying clean when it comes to viruses and spyware. There's disagreement as to why, and I'm not going to go there today. Instead, I'll say that people who feel overburdened when it comes to maintenance to keep a PC virus- and spyware-free may want to consider a Mac. I do not think it's a "better" machine, but I am now convinced there's less daily maintenance required.

Home computer networks

For years now I've told you that wired networks offer more security against hackers, are less likely to malfunction and are faster than wireless networks. All true. However, wireless networks --- including the automated software to set them up --- are greatly improved these days.

After switching my sister over to a wireless network recently, I started to understand that non-geeks have no desire to wire connectors, drill holes in hardwood floors and live with the clutter of wires. I think the average home user should consider the ease of wireless. Just make sure to follow all the security tips given in the manual that comes with your wireless router.

Many people will enjoy the freedom to move a computer to a different room without rewiring. Also, it's nice to be able to take the laptop out to the patio on a fine summer day.

Buying a computer

My advice has been to avoid the machines selling at the highest prices as well as those selling for bottom dollar. That still holds true for people like me. I need more power than the average home user, just because of what I do for a living and also because I run power-hungry applications.

But the very cheapest computers offered by brand name companies are amazingly powerful and reliable. Many home users regard the computer as an appliance to check e-mail, cruise the Web and do their taxes. These folks can get by just fine with the cheapest brand-name computer they can find.

That's quite a list of changes. Folks who know me well will be surprised since I have a reputation --- earned or unearned --- for stubbornness.

Keep in mind that many of my views will never change. High on that list is the need for a good software firewall to keep hackers out; another is using and updating anti-virus software.

And I still believe a bacon-and-egg sandwich is among the finest creations from the kitchen.

tecbud@ajc.com