Factors to consider when buying a new computer.

 

A number of my clients have asked for suggestions related to buying a new computer. There are many non-technical factors, such as, price or good and bad previous experience with a specific company or product. I only work with Microsoft compatible computers which support the most application software so all my comments apply only to that type of PC.

 

There are a number of important technical considerations that are not always obvious.

 

More memory will help with performance than an equal amount of money spent on a faster processor. XP likes at least 512MB. Power users will want 1 GB.  The approximately $70 spent bringing a desktop system up to 512 from 256 is a good investment.

 

Plan for back-up media. Too many people fail to back-up their systems and loose important data when something bad happens to the computer. With CD writers costing less then $100 (free with most new systems) and the media less than 50 cents, there is no reason to not back-up your data. DVD writers are a little more expensive but offer 7 times more capacity. DVD is not just for movies but makes a great back-up media also.

 

Photographs, Music and Movies can take an enormous amount of space. Eighty GB hard drive should be the minimum. If you think you want to convert your pictures, music and work with movies get more.

 

Desktop systems with flat LCD monitors are very nice. They take up a lot less space but be sure to compare the DPI (dots per inch) specification. If you like to open multiple windows some of the less expensive LCD monitors do not provide adequate resolution to display multiple screens with a lot of data displayed at the same time. Conventional CRTs still give the best picture for the least dollar. Look for a flat screen CRT model that is easier to read with less glare. A 17 in. monitor should be the minimum size because anything smaller will not display web pages without scrolling.

 

If you want a Notebook make sure you consider the weight. It sounds great to have a “full function” portable computer but they are HEAVY. If you carry it a lot, weight can be a real issue you may not understand until it is too late and you already own it.

 

Unless you are part of a networked Domain you probably do not need XP/pro. If your company has you logon to a domain you must use XP/Pro. It is a lot cheaper to buy it with the computer than it is to add it later.

 

Some manufacturers sell bundled software a lot cheaper than you can buy any where else. The Microsoft Works package for about $15 includes Word, Works spreadsheet, Money, Encarta, Picture It and Streets.

 

Wireless networking allows file, print and Internet sharing with very little cost for the networking hardware. If you have a notebook with wireless support you have free high speed Internet at many local Austin Hot Spots around Austin just as easy as you connect at home.

 

Do not try to upgrade your computer with someone else’s XP operating system or Office/Pro. The next time you both log into Microsoft to get updates you will both be stopped. You can not avoid buying legal copies the the operating system anymore. If you do this it a real problem to fix.

 

Help at your office or home is just a phone call away.