Technology is always changing, evolving and improving. I don't mind showing my age by telling you my first computer had 1K of memory, which seemed like a lot at the time. Today, my laptop has two million times more memory for about the same amount of inflation-adjusted dollars.

As new components are released, the price drops on what once was the best computer you could get.  When buying a new computer, how can you know that you are getting a good deal?  Should you just buy the very cheapest computer you can find?  Here are some things to watch out for when a computer deal seems too good to be true.

 How long will it last?

Many cheap deals are understandably for computers that have cheaper parts.  Unfortunately the likelihood of an electrical or mechanical failure in these cheaper components can be comparatively high.  Remember, you may be sacrificing quality for a lower initial purchase price.

What kind of warranty comes with it?

If you can increase the warranty to more than just one year, it is money well spent.  We have seen computer components fail after just 12 months.  Check the warranty details to see if you have to send the computer away for repair, or if they will come to you or even post you a replacement part.   

Does it have ‘genuine’ software?

Computer software like Microsoft Windows can be found on the internet for a fraction of the retail price.  However, chances are it is a copy and does not have its own original, unique license.  Microsoft is implementing increased security measures to ensure that only genuine software licenses have access to software updates and extra features (like Office templates).  In future, illegal copies of software may expire and be rendered unusable.

Will it run games or my other software?

You may have a great flat screen, but without the computer having ‘3D’ graphics capability, you may find you can’t run games like World of Warcraft or Counter Strike.  You’ll also have the same problem running software for house or garden design. 

Can I add things to it later?

Right now you may only type letters and send a few emails.  But what if you get a digital camera for your birthday or you see some great new software?  Your computer needs room to grow as you push it to do more and more.  Some cheap computers come with the absolute bare minimum of components and may not physically be able to read additional memory (RAM) or have space for new devices like DVD-writers.  Also, older components, like some motherboards, may not be compatible with newer devices.

What’s happening in technology lately?

Microsoft has released a new operating system called  ‘Vista’, replacing Windows XP, as well as a new version of the Office suite called Office 2007.  Both of these require an increased amount of memory and hard disk space than their preceding versions.  If you purchase a new computer with Windows XP and/or Office 2003 now that meets the requirements to run Vista and Office 2007, you can take advantage of a great software upgrade offer from Microsoft.  For more information visit: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/

Suppliers will still have stock of cheaper computers that aren’t ‘Vista capable’ – these may become a great bargain if you don’t have a need for the ‘latest and greatest’ and are happy to stay with Windows XP. 

Another point about Office 2007... many people dislike the new "ribbon" user interface, and find it more difficult to use than the old toolbars and menus. There is inexpensive software available to give the Office 2003 look back to Office 2007. Contact us for information on how to get it. There's also a patch available to allow Office 2003 users to open Office 2007 files.

Contact us about how we can put these and other tips into action for you.