JLS-AMP

Vista and 7 are based on the same framework although 7 runs faster. Just have plenty of memory and a decently fast cpu. If you must, skip Vista and go for 7. Linux is not a hobby OS. I use it daily as my main OS. I find it very confining to use Windows these days. With Linux I can set up multiple desktops and switch between them by rolling my mouse wheel. It runs fasters, uses less memory and its opensource. Saying "lacks support for many popular and useful programs" is bogus. If it will accomplish the same thing it does not matter. Anything you can do in Windows can be done in Linux for free. If you have to have Windows you can always install Virtual Box and install Windows inside of Linux and have it run that way. As I said, if you must use windows then go for 7. Just be prepared for some older programs not to work correctly. Even older hardware will not have drivers. Do some checking before upgrading to make sure all of your hardware will work.

Grab some Eneloops or Duracell precharged AA's (Same thing) and a good charger, and you wont be buying alkalines ever again.