Your Computer Buying Guide

If you are interested in purchasing a computer or computer equipment there are some things that you need to take into account before you take the leap, like for example what use are you planning on giving your computer. Do your research to ensure your investment.

If you're looking for a computer suitable for college work or school homework, keep in mind certain requirements are needed for the computer to be able to make written reports, presentations and, if possible, have the option of connecting to the Internet.

The first point is to decide if you should buy a brand that comes with parts and presets that are already pre installed, or if you prefer a clone, which is a computer that's put together with pieces from different brands and assembled according to your preferences.

The brand has certain advantages, such as quality control, warranty, support, user manuals and basic programs. And it also provides the technical services and ongoing updates.

The clone is more favorable in price and like the above can easily be upgraded. The product warranty depends on what each piece you buy provides. They usually do not include software licenses and you must buy these additionally.

It is important to decide not only by the price, but also by reviewing each of the proposals that companies offer you. Ask your adviser to explain to you about parental control options to manage and monitor computer use when used by children and youth for example.

Vocabulary is an area where confusion plays a big role. Electronic shops provide specifications for computers that confuse buyers and the following terms will help to clarify some doubts in your purchase.

Microprocessor: This is the device responsible for carrying out the logical and mathematical operations. There are several brands and it is recommended not to buy one less than 750MHz.

RAM: It is memory used to temporarily store data and programs used in a particular process. The more programs and applications you are planning to use, the more memory your computer will need. The threshold for proper operation is 512 Mb

Cache Memory: It's faster than the RAM and stores data more accurately by being sent from the microprocessor to the RAM. The options are 256 to 512 KB, the latter is better.

Hard Drive: The storage capacity of the machine depends on the hard drive. I advise not to buy one less than 20GB, which leaves more freedom to install programs and store information.

The Modem: Enables transmits and receives information by telephone, sends and receive faxes, and connects to the Internet. The standard set is 56K.

Video card and multimedia system. The first describes the resolution and number of colors that the equipment has, it is recommended to acquire a 3D technology to handle a resolution of 1024 X 768 pixels at 32 bits. The system integrates the units as multimedia CD-ROM, disc burner, sound card and speakers.

The Printer: Some printers have a lower price, but the system represents a greater investment, while in others a higher investment in the equipment cuts other costs and the cost of ink is more favorable. Check the quality and quantity of prints per cartridge to get a better idea of what you can expect.

CNET Reviews, Computer Buying Guide, Desktop Buying Guide