Watch out for: 

• Inexpensive computers with a lot of memory, but low-end components like video cards and the processor, especially with Windows Vista!   Many retailers offer inexpensive computer packages, but they are inexpensive for a reason!  These packages likely contain a lot of memory but low end components such as the processor and video cards.  Memory (ram) can help the performance of most machines, but it can only do so much.   These large-ram, low-processor machines are just fine for the typical business that crunches numbers, but those that want multimedia performance need more than just ram. Be sure you get at least the midrange processor and video card. This is especially true if the machine comes with Windows Vista.

• "Setup" charges.  Find out what they include.  Starting a new computer and getting Windows setup is almost automatic, there is no need to pay for that service.  If on the other hand they activate Microsoft Office, the Antivirus application, etc., and get all available updates, then a small charge may be worthwhile, especially if you have only a dialup connection.

• Software trial versions as you will have to pay for them later on!  See our Feb '08 newsletter!

• Over-priced software such as Antivirus with the one-year subscription.  You may be better off getting a trial version or nothing at all, then buy that software separately.  See Antivirus vs. Antispyware

• Extended warranties. 

  • Look at the cost of the extended warranty, then decide.
    However:  We highly recommend you consider the "accident damage" warranty for a Laptop.

Compare the details!

• When comparing prices, back out all extras like printers, cameras and scanners, then compare the basic computer, processor, memory, video card, etc.

• Future expandability (see case design below):  Is it a "tower" unit? Are there available PCI slots?  Are there available bays for extra drives, tape drives, etc..?

• Laptops:  Do you want external monitor connections, parallel printer connections, etc?  Check what is available.

Restore CDs  If you have the option between ordering the Microsoft Windows Restore CD and a restore "kit," get the Microsoft Windows CD.  See our Feb '06 newsletter.

After you receive your new computer, be sure to put the restore CDs in a safe place.  If you do not receive any, we recommend contacting the manufacturer and order a set!

Here are our thoughts on minimum specifications:

Operating System:  Many older programs, games and even hardware such as printers will not run/work properly under Vista, but unfortunately, that will soon be all that is available.  See our Mar '07 newsletter and Vista articles.

Processor:  Pentium "Duo" or "Quad Core" for typical home and Internet use.

• Brand: will make a big difference in the price. Pentium is the top of the line followed closely by AMD and Celeron.   

• Speed: This is where you can spend a lot of money!  Businesses, people working with images or movies and gamers should consider the fastest available Pentium processor, otherwise look at 2 or 3 generation older processors.  

Note: Celeron vs. Pentium:  The basic difference is the Pentium has more cache hence a better performance.  However, if the computer is used for business applications such as databases, accounting, word processing and the like, the Celeron is plenty good at a considerable cost savings!

Memory:  2 Gb minimum for typical home and Internet use.

• But get 4 or more if it is a reasonable price...

Hard drive: Minimum 180 Gb, 7,200 rpm (or faster) drive.

• Ideally, you should have two drives, one for the operating system and applications and a second drive for data storage.  If you want to save multimedia files (pictures, movies and the like) consider a second drive of at least 300Gb.  Note:  Adding a drive later on is very easy.  

• If not two drives, consider RAID1 drives.  This configuration has two identical drives where one drive is a mirror image of the other.  In the event of a drive failure, you can continue to use the machine as if nothing happened.  You then replace the failed drive and the system will create a mirror image on the new drive.

  • Note: This configuration does carry some risk.  If the operating system becomes so corrupt or infected it cannot even boot, data retrieval may be very expesive.

Read/Write CD or perhaps a DVD-RW

• Eventually you may want the option to burn CDs.

V.90 56K Data/Fax/Voice Mail Modem

• If you have or are getting DSL, a dialup modem would not be needed...

• By-the-way, get a good surge protector!  We recommend the APC Phone or Network units.

Monitor:  Today's standard is the 17 inch Flat Panel, but 19 (and larger) are becoming less expensive and desirable.    CRTs (older style monitors) are even less expensive but will soon be phased out.  While you can order computers without a monitor, generally there is very little savings. 

Laptop Display/Monitor

There are a few choices here other than just the size.  Note, there may be variations within each of these display types, e.g., "W" indicates wide aspect.

• XGA is the basic low end display.  XGA's have a poor angle view, i.e., you must view the monitor straight on.  Good enough for basic email, word processing, etc. 

• SXGA "Super" offers better resolution and a better side view.

• UXGA "Ultimate" is the best but also the most expensive...

Graphics Card:  Generally the OEM built-in is fine for typical business, home and Internet use.

• However, if you want to play games you should seriously consider the fastest available AGP or PCIExpress video card and nothing less than 256 Mb video ram. 

• Other video considerations:  Video/TV interface, dual monitors? 

Sound System: The OEM built-in is fine for typical home and Internet use.

• You may want to enquire on sub-woofer speaker.

Case Design: While not as important, it is something to think about.

• The traditional "tower" generally means replacement parts are generic and readily available whereas the "small design" towers, desktop and especially the "all-in-one" units may require OEM parts.