When buying a new desktop computer, there is
nothing worse than getting it home, and then realizing it is missing half the
features that you intended to have. People often presume a new desktop computer
will automatically have everything they need included, however this is not
always the case.
Pentium 3 ghz processor or an equivalent in the AMD or Athlon range. This is
how fast the computer will process your tasks. Some people will swear by a
Pentium or others are die hard fans of AMD and Athlon. Either way 3ghz should be
the minimum speed that you should look for in a new computer. This will allow
you to use your computer for most applications without a problem. Emailing,
browsing the internet, office work, homework, normal gaming and more. Of course,
if you can afford it, I would go for a dual core or even quad core. Also beware
when they say a computer is 3500+ This does not mean it is 3.5ghz in Pentium
terms.
DVD
writeable drive If you get a DVD burner there will be no need for any other
cd rom or cd-rw drive as the DVD-rw drive will do everything. It will read DVD's
and CD's, copy and burn DVD's and CD's, and you can use it to backup your data.
The price of a DVD burner is well under $50 now, so there is no point getting
anything less.
LCD Flat screen monitor Most new computers
come with an LCD monitor as the old CRT monitors are not available any longer. A
17" is the average size that allows you top see the screen clearly, and of
course bigger is better. Any new LCD monitor is fine as long as it is compatible
with your computer.
USB
Ports Don't forget the USB ports. Find out how many you need. If you have a
USB mouse or keyboard, remember that this will take two USB spaces. I also like
to plug an external hard drive in, a flash USB stick, and my digital camera.
Having a USB at the front of your computer case is also handy and seems to be an
included feature of new desktop computers.
A graphics card This is a great feature as
it will save your computers recourses. Your computer will run faster with a
separate graphics card installed be the computer will not be controlling the
images. This is particularly useful for someone that likes to play games. The
bigger the game, the better your graphics card should be. Having an onboard
graphics card that is integrated into your motherboard is fine office and
homework applications. If you get Windows Vista you have to have a graphics card
to get the cool effects that come with it.
A sound card An onboard sound card is
fine, unless you want to turn your computer into a music stereo. I have had on
board 5.1 channel sound and used sub woofer speakers and the sound nearly
blasted me out of the room. Ordinary computer speakers would not do that.
Windows XP or Windows Vista Operating System
When buying a computer and you have Windows installed, make sure you have a COA
sticker on the side of your computer and the original Windows CD that comes with
it. The COA (certificate of authenticity) makes your copy of Windows legal and
you will need to see this number if you ever have to format your computer. You
will need a copy of the cd when you format your computer. Some computer sales
places do not provide the customer with a Windows CD.
If you are already used to Windows XP you should
stick with that operating system. Windows Vista takes a bit longer to get the
hang of as there are so many more features. Of course if I had the choice, I
would choose Windows Vista, however you must have a fast computer to run it.
512mb ram is not enough for Windows Vista to run smoothly. Be careful because
computer stores are still selling computers with only 512mb ram and Windows
Vista.
Keyboard and Mouse If your computer comes with the average keyboard and
mouse, that will be fine and will work well. Just make sure the mouse is optical
with the little red light underneath. It would be even better if it were all
wireless though.. The less cords, the better.
Computer Warranty Make sure you get a warranty with your computer because
most new computers have problems within their first year.. So it would be safer
to at least get a two year warranty. I have seen so many people's computers
break down just after the one year warranty had run out.
Price To
get all of the included items here it could cost anywhere from $1,000 and up. Be
aware that there are cheaper computers, but their specifications are listed in
different ways in order to confuse the consumer. They are usually made up with
have cheaper components.
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Extra Tips to consider when buying a new computer
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Buy a
complete system package because it always works out cheaper.
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Make
sure it includes a Windows operating system with a COA and an original disk.
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Make
sure it has an antivirus program included.
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Don't
forget power cords.
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Get your
receipt and store it in a safe place.
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Get all
driver CD's for every device that is installed. For example the motherboard and
graphics card.
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Ask
about their after sales service, and what the process is?
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Make
sure the new desktop computer has various ways to connect to the internet. A
Ethernet port to connect a router or a modem.
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Choosing the right desktop
to buy can be a daunting task if you don't know what you are talking about. What
does all that computer jargon mean anyway? Hard drive, processor, ram, memory,
hardware, software. Here is a definition of the most common
computer terms. It is best to arm yourself with a bit of research and
knowledge about the product before you commit to buy.
