Computer Shopping 101

by: James A. Peterson, IT Consultant
Joboja Staff Writer

Making sure your dream machine isn’t the devil in disguise

Most people make their computer buying decisions on the basis of price or looks. (The majority of computer users don’t know anything about RAM, hard drive space, processor speed or power, or the difference between DVD-RW and BLU RAY burners. Three to six months later those same people are back at Best Buy or Circuit City wondering why their computer isn’t working, or is so slow, or won’t support the latest software or devices.
With all the different computer options, price points and platforms out on the market, it can be confusing to pick a solid computer system that will last 3 – 5 years. How do you find the right system, at the right price to fit your computing needs?

Stage 1 – Budget
Know your budget. There are plenty of financing options to purchase a computer, but you have to know how much you are willing to spend. When I say computer I mean the actual CPU, keyboard/mouse (sometimes wireless), speakers, monitor (LCD or CRT), printer (inkjet, photo, All-In-One), cables and cords, warranties and last but not least… software.
Create an actual budget that you can stick to and then search for a computer for that amount or less.

Stage 2 – Brands
Companies like Dell, Gateway, HP and Apple spend millions of dollars trying to convince the end user (you) that their machine is the best and will solve all your problems, and to build brand loyalty. Don’t make a decision just on the brand. Take time to compare brands and features just like you would when car shopping.
For example: most computers are loaded up with software that can junk up your hard drive. You may want to buy a brand that includes less unnecessary software. Or you may hear that a specific brand is on the cutting edge with a new technology and you want to buy the best.

Remember, this purchase is supposed to provide you with a quality computer system for at least the next 3 years. Do the research on brands first.

Stage 3 – Purpose
Once you find a brand with which you’re comfortable, ask yourself one critical question: What are you going to use the computer for? Most people buy computers that can do “anything.” You’re going to get more out of, and be happier with, a machine dedicated to a specific task.

Graphic designers almost always purchase Apple computers; they’re the industry standard and run the programs designers need. Project managers, office personnel and others will probably want Windows-based machines that have large hard drives for storage, and the Windows operating system (OS) for program compatibility. A photographer will always have a computer with a wide screen monitor and lots of memory for storing pictures.

Hardcore gamers will want the fastest processors, sharpest graphics cards and cool computer cases to show their unique personalities. Knowing what you’re most likely to use the computer for, and you’ll have an easier time choosing the right computer.

For example: I’m a project manager who’s constantly on the road. I want a machine that can access wireless networks, is portable but durable, Windows OS-based, has a fast processor, and a large storage drive for optimum performance. I also want a built-in webcam for conferences. Armed with that information I can start my investigation.
Ultimately I arrive at a HP Pavilion Notebook Computer with an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 240GB Hard Drive, 2GB of RAM, 17.0 Wide Screen Monitor, DVD Burner and an integrated webcam. It’s easier to get what you want once you know what it is you want.
Always remember that computers are not intended to do everything at once. If your uses for a computer branch out to different avenues in the future, consider getting another computer to share the workload, or split tasks between machines.

Stage 4 – Purchasing
Now that you’ve set a budget, done the research, know the brand you want and your purposes for the machine, it’s time to buy. Most people have a good idea of where to buy a computer, but in case you don’t, here are a few ideas: www.newegg.com, www.tigerdirect.com, Best Buy, Circuit City, www.apple.com, the Apple Store or www.Dell.com.

Make sure you review all of the purchasing details and information. Many stores want to review your computer for defects with the OS or hardware because they have to pay a 15% restocking fee if you return it because of a manufacturer’s defect. If presented with that option ALWAYS LET THEM CHECK IT OUT!

Look at the warranty information closely. You probably won’t need a warranty unless the total cost of the computer is over $1000. If you decide to purchase a warranty, make sure it covers: notebook screen, track pad, hard drive, optical drive, processor, etc… These are the most frequently damaged components on a computer and should always be covered by the warranty.

Now enjoy your new purchase. Always load the software titles first that you know you will need, then the games and other titles. In case you ever have to restore your computer to earlier settings, the restore point will then include your core software components.

You should be good to go—enjoy your new purchase and becoming apart of the digital age!