How to Buy a Computer

November 1, 2005

Prepare yourself for the ultimate decision by understanding why you think you want or need a new/different computer. The key factors in reaching this understanding are basically the following:

• My present computer is not “working” – it’s not performing the tasks I use it for and I’ve explored the options for “fixing” it and it’s either going to be “expensive” or I and my “professional” can’t make it do what I want it to do.
• I want to do “things” my present computer won’t do or it can’t be “economically” updated to do.
• My computer is “?” years old and I know newer ones are “faster” and can do “things” my present won’t do.

Make a list of what you use a computer for and a list of the features your present computer has, as the basis for what to look for. See attached checklist of computer functions and features to remind you of the options that exist. Think about the experience you’ve had with your present computer in terms of how well it’s worked and how well it’s been supported by whoever built it, to help you decide what “brand” to look for.

Based on a Google search using “Buying a New Computer”, I discovered the following Websites to provide you with more details than could be covered in several hours:

• http://www.css.msu.edu/PC-Guide/PC-Guide1.cfm
• http://www.wharton.upenn.edu/infodocs/buyguide
• http://askit.uq.edu.au/itanswers/askit/buyingpc.html
• http://www.intel.com/buy/tips.htm
• http://www.detnews.com/2002/techcolumns/0212/17/techcol16-35231.htm
•  http://www.atg.wa.gov/teenconsumer/pages/buyingG&S/buyingcomputer.htm#
•  http://www.michaelhorowitz.com/buying_laptop.html
• http://compreviews.about.com/od/buyers/
•  http://www.microsoft.com/athome/moredone/lapvsdesk.mspx
• http://www.infoworld.com/article/04/03/07/hnunstudy_1.html
•  http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/games/learnmore/videocard101.mspx

FAQ’s 

1. Can I use my “old” application software with a new computer?
2. Will my printer/scanner work with a new computer?
3. Will my new computer work with my “dialup” ISP?
4. How much should I pay for a new computer?
5. Can I build my own?
6. Can I have a computer built for me?
7. Where should I buy my new computer?

Computer Functions and Features

CPU/Processor – Speed, Manufacturer

RAM/Memory – 512MB Minimum for XP

Operating System – XP Home Edition, XP Professional, XP Media Center

Hard Drive Size – 40, 80, 160, 200, 250, 300, 500GB – Multiple Drives

CD-ROM, CD/DVD-ROM, CD-RW/DVD-ROM, DVD+/-RW – Dual Drives

Floppy Drive

Video/Sound Cards

Monitor – CRT Flat Screen, Flat Panel – 17”, 19”, 20”, 24” – Analog/Digital

Sound System/Speakers

Keyboard/Mouse – Wireless/Optical

Office Software – Corel WordPerfect, MS Works w/Word, MS Office

Hardware Warranty – 1-4 Years

Anti-Virus/Security Suite

Digital Music Software

Digital Photography Software

Enhanced Software for CD or DVD Burner

Major Computer Brands

Acer, Dell, Compaq/HP, eMachines/Gateway, IBM/Lenovo

Other Computer Brands

Computer King, KREX, Vision