49 Tips

Buying Computer Desktops

Submitted By: marc abraham in Computer Tips category

Buying Computer Desktops If you are looking for a computer desktop then you have two options—you can buy a new one or go for a used one. It is not a bad idea to purchase a used computer as it can save a lot of money but be sure to read these instructions first:

Ensure that there is no physical damage and inspect the ports from both outside and inside the case.
Ensure that you are getting value for money product and bargaining is always a good idea.
Check if it is still in the warranty period and ensure that warranty is transferable by the manufacturer ( which is usually not)

What to choose Mac or PC—this again depends on individual choice. Mac can run windows as a clone so most of programming and data that can be used on a Pc can be opened in Mac. But the Pc computers have also the capability of opening Mac files.

When buying a new computer look for following things—

CD MEDIA: When looking for a new or used computer inspect the type of drive included.

Is it a standard drive?
What is the speed of drive?
Is it a CD-R/DVD/CD-RW drive?
If it is a DVD drive is it hardware/software decoding?
If it is DR-R/CD-RW then does it includes software?

HARD DRIVE:

Always get the maximum sized drive.
Look at the transfer rate of hard drive, long transfer rate can slow down the computer while transferring large files. Look for RPM(rotations per minute).
Is it having S.M.A.R.T? which, is a new technology used to warn the computer user of possible problem with hard disk drive.

MEMORY: Determine the amount of memory in the computer and verify if it can be upgraded in future. One of the best methods of determining how much RAM you should have is to look at the system requirements of the programs you are running on your computer and double what ever the memory requirements are for the program you use most.

Minimum: 512 MB

Recommended: 1GB

Excellent: 2 GB

MODEM: Modem should not be an important consideration unless broad band is available in your area. Most of the computers are equipped with at least a 56K modem.

NETWORK CARD: This is an important thing to look while going for a desktop as they allow users to connect to the computer, allows data transfer, file sharing, internet connection and printer sharing.

Here are the top ten desktops to choose from—(rates are approximate figures)