 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Buying a new computer
So you are thinking about a new computer - good. There are so many out there that buying a new computer can be a bit off-putting if you don't know, or you are unsure, what to look for in a PC or laptop. There are, as always, a few simple guidelines to follow before you commit yourself to what is, after all, a large investment for most of us.
Some friendly advice first...
If you do buy something and you pay over the odds for it, live with it. Don't be tempted to take it back with some lame excuse like 'it doesn't do this, it doesn't do that - and I thought it would, and my mate (who's into IT) said it should....'. For starters the guy in the shop is trying to make an honest living and will give you the best advice he/she can based on what you ask before you part with your cash. They can't read your mind and it is up to you to research the product before you buy.
If you go into a shop and insist on looking at Packard Bell computers, because that's what you were advised to look at (by your mate), don't blame the guy in the store if it isn't what you really wanted.
This may sound a bit harsh, but having been in retail for some time, I can tell you that someone trying to return an item they bought by mistake is obvious. Be honest and tell the retailer you made a mistake and see what they say. Whatever happens, please don't be tempted to quote consumer law (I know my rights...!), chances are that unless you work for Trading Standards, you don't. The retailer knows the law better than you do.
Having said that, there is nothing wrong with returning any piece of IT if it really doesn't do what it says on the packaging. If a computer package says the machine has a DVD-RW, and it only has a CD-RW installed, I would be the first to insist on getting what I paid for!
How much to spend
First, fix a budget, and stick to it! The temptation will be there to stretch yourself because something is on special offer (for this week only...), and you may regret it afterwards. How many times have you bought something, and later a friend has said 'I could have got that a lot cheaper if you had asked me...!' Yeah, right.
Also bear in mind that spending a lot of money on a system doesn't mean you will always get the best bits of equipment. Ask around and see what stories other users have to tell, but form your own opinion. Ask us and we will always give you impartial advice on what's best for you. Think twelve months ahead to what you may want the computer to do.
Where to buy it.
There are plenty of 'High Street' stores where you can get your new computer, most of them you are probably familiar with. Buying from a reputable company means that you are covered by at least a 12 month warranty, but be very careful about what is exactly covered by the warranty, and more to the point, what isn't.
Here's a list of some of the computer vendors you may like to get a price from that we would recommend to you. To access the website, just click on the name and the site will open in a new window.
| Comet | Currys |
| Dell | Dixons |
| EuroPC | Hewlett-Packard |
| Laptops Direct | Mesh Computers |
| Microwarehouse | PC World |
What you should get
Bear in mind that when you choose a new PC you are probably looking at buying a package deal, and should include all, if not most of the following:
- Monitor
- Keyboard & mouse
- Surge-protector
- Anti-virus software (Nod32, Norton, McAfee etc)
- Pack of CD-R's or DVD-R's
- Printer & USB cable
- Printing paper
- Dial-up modem (only for PAYG dial-up - not broadband)
- Spare inkjet cartridges
- Carry case (laptop)
 |
Monitor, Keyboard & Mouse The keyboard and mouse should come with the computer as standard, but make sure! The monitor should be discounted is it is part of the package, but remember, if you select a different monitor (for example a 19" TFT instead of the package deal 17" TFT). you will have to pay extra, maybe even full price for the screen - ask first! |
 |
Surge Protector A surge protector (see picture) is a clever gizmo that looks like an extension lead. Belkin make a good one and is a must have if you want to protect your valuable computer. The plan is, that should your home be struck by a bolt of lightning, or the electricity company accidentally send a surge through your cables, the Surge Protector cuts off the supply before it reaches your PC. At least that's the theory. There are delicate printed circuit boards in your PC that will fry if a surge of electricity hits them. The cost of repair can be nearly as much as a new PC! |
CD+/-R, DVD+/-R Sometime or other you will want to record something to a disc, or use discs to back up your documents/photographs won't you? CD-R's and DVD-R's are as cheep as chips these days, and you should be able to get a pack of 10 for next to nothing.
 |
There are four basic types of disc, CD+/-R (CD-recordable), DVD+/-R (DVD-recordable), CD-RW (CD-re-writeable) and DVD-RW (DVD-re-writeable). In short, you can record virtually anything on a CD+/-R, but only once. The same is true of a DVD+/-R, except the DVD has a greater capacity and can include an entire full-length film.
Meanwhile, the CD-RW and DVD-RW can be written over again and again, a bit like a video tape can. Be careful about using a CD-RW and DVD-RW that you don't record over something you want to keep permanently. If in doubt, use a CD-R or DVD-R, especially a back-up disc. As a matter of interest, the capacity of a disc is as follows: CD+/-R/RW can hold up to 700Mb of data, while a DVD+/-R/RW can hold up to 4.7Gb of data. |
Anti-Virus software. The chance are your new PC has Anti-Virus (AV) software already installed, and again the cances are it is from either Norton or McAfee. However, this software is generally for a trial period which can range from 60 to 90 days. After the 'trial' period, you are invited to purchase the full version with a one year license. Beware! You must remove the 'old' AV software before you install your new one if you elect not to continue with the trial AV software!
For more information about Anti-Virus software, please click here (opens in a new window).
Dial-Up Modem The dial-up modem is the gizmo that connects your computer to the internet through your telehone line. Many PC's don't have a built in modem anymore, under the misguided idea that everyone is using broadband. So, if you don't have broadband, make sure a dial-up modem has been fitted before you take it away, or if you are feeling adventurous, fit one yourself and save the fitting charge!
| Next page >>> |