I think that a gateway computer system with intel pentium processing that has single or dual internal cd drive thats readable and writeable wil be a good choice for your needs.it may have two serial ports, windows xp or vista service pack2 for updates, several usb ports for otherdevices. it also has 512 mega bytes of ram (storage space.) this pc has a 14 inch color monitor( veiwing screen.) since this p.c. is for personal use it will serve your needs. if you decided to upgrade later you will still have many options rather than buying a new computer.
you can surf the follwing link to veiw some computers
http://www.gateway.com/programs/sxseries/index.php