Checklist for Purchasing A New Computer

Checklist for Purchasing


When you're shopping for a new computer, check for the following features to make sure it will serve you well into the future as software and graphics become more powerful and complex:

Memory: Your computer should have at least 1 gigabyte (GB) of RAM for a 32-bit computer and 2 gigabytes for a 64-bit computer.

Processor speed: Look for a minimum of 2.8 GHz processor speed.

Size/footprint: If you're short of space, a mini tower or laptop or even a tablet might be better.

Price: Set a budget that you're comfortable with — you can get pretty inexpensive computers that work for most folks these days.

Keyboard: Make sure the keyboard feels comfortable to you.

Monitor: Monitors come in different sizes and qualities. A 15-inch monitor is comfortable for most people, but if you do work with higher-end images or watch videos, consider a larger monitor as larger screens may be easier on your eyes. Consider getting a touchscreen monitor to take advantage of all of Windows 8 touchscreen features.

Input ports and drives: Computers might come with CD or DVD drives, USB ports for connecting peripherals and USB sticks, and ports to connect to monitors and printers. Tablet computers don't normally offer a lot in the way of input ports.

Wireless capability: To connect to wireless devices and networks, you need wireless capability.

Included software: Some computers come with utility programs, such as antivirus software, or productivity software, such as Microsoft Works.

Manufacturer support: Check the warranty and technical support available.

Graphics and sound cards: If you want to use multimedia or game software, ask for more sophisticated sound and video features.

A webcam: If you will be calling your friends or grandchildren over a service such as Skype, it's useful to have a built-in webcam to transmit video images while talking.

Don't buy computer because

  1. Others are buying it: When the opinion or suggestion of computer operator becomes your decision, you may end up using trailer to carry two pair of shoes or using a bicycle to tow a truck.
  2. Fancy: A fancy computer may not have the capacity to do the job you may need it for.
  3. Latest Technology: In recent times, new technologies usually has its disadvantages and becomes a treat for crucial organisation while its effects has no implication to others.

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