Buying a Computer
What To Do And Why
It isn't fair, but buying a computer is just plain easier for some than it is for others.
Those who've purchased and used a computer in the past already have an idea
of what they need in a new computer. But those who are new to the computer world could get lost in the myriad of
choices available.
The short answer to "What should I buy?" is "The best." Of course that answer is extremely
subjective because "the best" to one person is certainly different to another. Our definition of "the best" is the
fastest and the biggest, but even that leaves the computer newbie confused. Here's a quick rundown of what the
computer novice should do and why.
1. Buy a computer that includes basic peripherals. Every computer can be broken down into four major components:
CPU unit, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. For the novice, it's best to buy a computer that has all of these
components included so that when it's taken home, assembling the computer is a simple matter of plugging things in
where they belong. Save the individual purchases of these components for those who have more experience.
2. Decide what you'll use the computer for. If you want to use your computer for cruising the
web, sending email, or performing simple word-processing or spreadsheet tasks, a computer with the basic components
that we just described should suffice. If you want to use a computer to help with a career in multimedia however,
you're going to need to accessorize your system with a scanner, printer, digital camera, tablet, or digicam for
example. If you want a computer to help with a career in music, you will need a quality microphone and set of
speakers.
3. Create a budget and stick to it. How much can you afford to spend
on a
new computer? Although the prices of computers are decreasing, they can still create a hefty expense especially if
you need additional peripherals described above. In addition, you'll need to figure in costs for maintenance,
servicing, and insuring.
4. Start comparison shopping and look for the "fastest and biggest." By "fastest and biggest,"
we mean the computer with the fastest processor, the fastest modem, the biggest memory, and the biggest hard drive
capacity. Even if you think that you'll never need the amount of speed or space available on the market today, it's
important to have in the event that you truly do need that much in the future. Having such a large reserve will cut
down on costs when the time comes to upgrade for more than what you may settle for in a computer that offers
less.
5. Stick with the better-known brands. Venturing off the beaten path with lessor-known brands is
again, an adventure for those who have more experience with computers. Although those better-known brands may be a
tad bit more expensive, the computer novice will appreciate the comfort in purchasing a computer from a business
that has a long record of building quality products, and that has the funds available for fulfilling returns,
trades, servicing, and warranties.
6. Select a store. Having an idea of what you want in a computer and what kind of computer that
you want, your only task left is to select the place in which you want to buy it. There are a number of places
available including computer store outlets, online stores, auction sites, used computer stores, or your friendly
neighborhood yard sale. For the computer novice, we recommend buying a computer from a physical store. In a
physical store, you have the opportunity to see the computer of interest in person and ask questions. New computer
buyers also have access to store warranties, returns, trades, and services.
These suggestions should give the computer newbie a great start in selecting a quality computer
for the first time and they apply to either Windows computers or Apple Macintosh computers. After making these
decisions and finally selecting one that fits your needs, you can then venture into the fascinating world of
software - a world that is just as grand as the world of hardware!
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