Thinking
about a
new computer?
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Thinking
about a |
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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 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 and Windows 7.
"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!
Extended warranties.
Look at the cost of the extended warranty,
then decide.
However: We recommend you
consider the "accident damage" warranty for a
Laptop.
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.
Some manufacturers do not ship CDs, instead have a utility to create them. Do so!
Be sure to put
the restore CDs in a safe place.
Here are our thoughts on minimum specifications:
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.
Get 4 or more
Hard drive: Minimum 180 Gb, 7,200 rpm (or faster) drive.
Also consider getting an external drive for backups.
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 Wide Flat Panel, but 19 (and larger) are becoming less expensive and more desirable.
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.
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.