With all of the models types, and styles of computers that are on the market today, it becomes a bit overwhelming for the beginner or novice computer user when it comes to purchasing a new system. One needs to be sure that the salesperson is looking out for the consumer's best interests, not just concerned with the commission that they earn.
Usually two standard clichés come to light in the scenario of a computer purchase. “Let the buyer beware” and “you get what you pay for”. Here are a few helpful hints and tips to guide you through the purchase of a new system. While none of them are carved in stone, they are presented as a brief overview to inform a buyer of the kinds of purchases offered and the kinds of purchases to look for:
- Avoid refurbished computer systems. Though they may come with a limited (very limited) warrantee, they are the product of an assembly gone wrong, a bad operating system that has been patched, or a hardware glitch that has apparently been fixed. Though the systems are offered as “good as new' be very cautious when dealing with the seller of such systems. The computer itself could have a hairline crack in the motherboard (which is often the case) and you cannot foresee the trouble that this will cause in the future. If the system “presents” well for the time being this may not be the case after it has been running hot for several hours and you attempt to multi-task with it.
- Avoid “off lease” systems. These are also previously used systems and they are sold for a great deal less than a factory direct system. Computer stores tend to carry off lease systems as a cheaper alternative to buying a brand new system. Sometimes these systems have had their operating systems wiped so unless you are an avid software user and know how to re-install operating systems (ie. Windows XP, Windows 2000, etc.) you are stuck with a computer that is virtually a paperweight.
- Know ahead of time what you want the computer for. For example, if you intend to use it for digital photography, make sure that the salesperson knows this and you are directed to a newer system that is equipped with the necessary USB adapter ports for a camera and other digital equipment that you will be using. Keep in mind that you may want these ports to be on the front of the computer as opposed to being in the rear for accessibility purposes.
- Try not to opt for all of the extras and the upgrades that may be presented to you. A salesperson may have you upgrading your computer (i.e. more ram, a DVD burner, a web cam) and all you need is the system as it stands ready to be used.
- Beware of the small print. Make sure that the system that you are looking at comes with all of the necessary components (screen, tower, keyboards, mouse, and an operating system) as some dealers may advertise state of the art systems but you may find that the monitor is not included in the dealers price.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions and research things like the size of hard drives, amounts of ram, and types of operating systems so that you can inquire in abundance about the system that your are thinking about purchasing
- Make sure that your system has a decent warrantee offered with it. Many computer companies will make you go back to the company that manufactured a specific part (the hard drive for example). Try to get a full system replacement type warrantee when making a new computer purchase. It may save a lot of headaches in the future. .
Knowledge and awareness is the key to making a good computer purchase. Try and know exactly what you are looking for in advance, and it is much less likely that you will be taken advantage of.
