Computer Buying Help

[rogue]

I recently purchased a new computer. My old one's (4+ years and was a base model Compaq then) hard drive is failing. It's no longer booting....99% of the time, it won't move past the "Compaq" start screen. As far as we can tell, the motherboard is fine since we traded out hard drives to see if it would work.

My kids need their own computer. They drive me nuts with the three of us trying to share one when we're all computer/internet junkies.

Even as old as the Compaq is, it's still a good computer and would be for them. It will do what they need it do...what it's always done: get online, store pictures and music. I can't decide if it would be best to get just another hard drive for the old one or just look for a basic tower since I have the other components. Where can I go besides brand sites, Tiger Direct, Buy.com, ebay for one?

Also, I'm looking for an external hard drive to back both up (I'll use one for both since they won't have much saved), a USB hub, and a couple more small computer components.

Any good places for those that may have some kick ass deals?

Any help would be appreciated! The kiddos are at their dads until next week and I'd really like to get their on computer going by then or very shortly after (I don't really want them on the new one either I want mine to myself! )

Thanks!