Buying a New Computer: a Step by Step Guide

Buying a new computer is exciting, yet frustrating at the same time. Preparing yourself mentally and financially are the two most important factors when it comes time to get a new machine.

Step 1-Financial Planning

The first decision when buying a new Desktop or Notebook should be the absolute maximum you're willing to spend. A responsible budget for your new purchase shouldn't put you in a financial bind, make a personal choice that will benefit you, not harm you later down the road.

Step 2-Research

Research, research, and research some more! Reviews are a great way of identifying computers that are reliable and trustworthy. People like you and I really do give great advice when it comes to electronics. We all want a computer with the latest hardware advances and the newest software, but these new technologies often need to be improved. CNet, Best Buy, Circuit City, and most other retailers have "feedback" from people who have already purchased the item you're interested in. Use other buyers' comments to gauge the reliability and ease of operation because your findings just may surprise you!

Step 3-Main Focus

Most Desktop computers nowadays have over 600GB (gigabytes) of hard drive storage; plenty of room for pictures, videos, music and games. Many desktops are now even being produced with three or four processors (Ex: AMD Triple-Core processors). For beginners, more engines mean more power!

Besides the two options above, make sure to pay attention to RAM (Random Access Memory). RAM is compared to a humans "short term memory". Basically, RAM is the amount of work on hand that the computer can handle at any given time if you will. This is a very important part of your new purchase...The more RAM, the better.

Step 4-Features

With the brains of the computer out of the way, let's talk features. Almost all desktop and notebook computers have a DVD drive with burning capabilities. This lets us take our music, burn it to a CD and play it wherever we deem necessary. Not only can you burn music or videos onto CD's, you can also burn important files that you feel are too important to lose. Other important features are USB ports, SD slots for transferring pictures from a digital camera, and an Ethernet connection for high speed internet. Most Notebooks have wireless capability while some Desktop computers are venturing into this as well. Write down your most important wish list for features so you can easily compare different models.

Step 5-Operating System

We've all heard of Windows XP and Windows Vista, with the later being the most recent from Microsoft. Windows Vista was created for enhanced security, but many problems arose from this as well. Rest assured, most programs and software are able to support Windows Vista at this point in time, so don't be afraid of the newest operating system on the market. Many casual users enjoy the new interface and features, but many computer hobbyists have gone back to Windows XP due to certain limitations with program compatibility. If you are an internet guru who uses the computer for everyday tasks, Windows Vista will suit you just fine.

Step 6-Software

All manufacturers (HP, Acer, Dell, Apple, etc) preload software onto the computer before it reaches your hands as a consumer. They often include nothing but free trials to the most needed applications like Virus protection, Spyware protection and Microsoft Office. Norton Internet Security 2008 is a great all around program for Virus, Spyware and blocking internet attacks. I haven't been a fan of Norton in the past due to the program using so much RAM, but this version has been redesigned and runs very well from my experience on two different desktops and two different notebooks. Microsoft Office 2007 is a must in my opinion for Word, Excel and PowerPoint for everyday tasks like typing and record keeping. Software really should be the least worry on your mind when it comes time to purchase a new computer, because you can always change software; rather than changing the insides of your new pc.

Step 7-Purchasing

When you've decided on your price range and the model you're interested in, the work doesn't stop there. Forking out the amount on the price tag is exactly what is expected of you from the salesman on the floor. Little do you know, asking for a discount is acceptable, as long as your request isn't outside of this world. Many retailers like Best Buy often put products on sale for a short amount of time, only to jack the price back up the next week. If you're too shy to haggle and too embarrassed to save some money, at least ask if the product was previously listed "on sale". This one question could save you $50-$200 dollars without you having to feel uncomfortable regarding the purchase price.

With these ideas and thoughts, I really feel like this information could be of use to many people venturing into the wide world of buying a new computer. Avoid online purchases unless you are buying from a reputable company, because many sites sell computers cheap, but your purchase isn't warranted unless you have the original receipt. Setting up will be easier than the shopping, just follow the directions and make sure to update the computer as soon as an internet connection is established. Also, please recycle any old computers or monitors that you are replacing, it just makes sense.

Thanks for reading.