By Sherman Burdette

Fans of Microsoft's Windows XP computer operating system are approaching a day many were hoping would never come, the day Windows XP will be no longer. 

Monday June 30 is the date when Mircosoft will stop making its Windows XP operating system available on new PCs sold in stores.

"June 30 is the date that the larger computer manufacturers need to stop putting computers out with Windows XP," said Bob Chopick, Jr. of Custom Computers in Kingston.

David Jacobs runs a one-man band computer service called Ask Dave Computer Service.

"We come to you. Repair it right there in front of you while you wait," David Jacobs explained.

Both men are very aware about the concerns some PC users are having these days as Microsoft moves forward in slowly phasing out its Windows XP operating system for Vista.

Effective June 30 you will no longer be able to buy the Windows XP system on new PCs.

"If you're going to walk into Best Buy or Circuit City they're only going to have Vista machines," Chopick said.

Vista is supposed to be an upgrade from Windows XP.

"Vista does have some capability issues but of course the same happened when XP came out," Chopick added.

So what's a PC user to do?

"Basically if the operating system you have is running effectively just stick with it till you are ready to upgrade," David Jacobs recommended.

Both Chopick and David Jacobs said you can get a Vista operating system and have XP installed with it if you the get Vista Business or Ultimate system.

Keep this in mind if you are the average person just shopping for a new laptop or desktop.

"If you have software and hardware compatible with Vista you're certainly better off going with Vista because Vista does have enhanced features and is a step forward for the future," Chopick said.

The good news for XP lovers is you will be able to still get XP on new computers from places like Custom Computers in Kingston that build computers.

Microsoft is apparently offering Mainstream support until April 2009.

While you might not be able to get Windows XP en masse at stores, there will be places certainly for technical support for those who want to hold on the XP.