Thinking about buying a computer?

There are two viewpoints about buying a computer:
Buy new to get the latest and greatest, or buy used to spend the least.

If this is your FIRST computer, please consider a used one. You may decide that this isn't for you, so don't spend a lot of money. You can get a good computer for less by purchasing refurbished used,. but only from a local company who will provide some warranty and service. The small custom computer shops want your return business and referrals so they keep their prices down.

The many advantages of buying used are important:

Less cash spent

you are not forced to buy a new operating system

the service department is close to you, and repair times are quicker

you can speak directly to whoever will work on it!

When buying a computer the most important thing is to know what features you need, and don't need. Many seniors prefer laptops for simplicity, and ease in moving them. Most Seniors use the computer for

• family contact (email)
• photos
• browsing the web
• online banking, shopping and
• searching the Internet for consumer or hobby information.

Therefore, the budget should be spent on the features that are for those purposes. (These standards are appropriate in 2009. Who knows in 2012?)

• A large monitor screen (for vision) 17" or larger
• A keyboard and mouse that you have tried out for the particular feel of them
• A reasonable size hard drive.. 120 Gb (Gigabytes), although I use much less.
• Enough working memory for Internet multi-tasking, and speed (and to allow for future changes) 1-2 Gb
• processor speed: faster the better (because we're impatient)!
• A combo CD writer/DVD player for ease of backups, photos and movies
• A color photo printer, simple and reliable

However, if you go to a big chain electronic store, the salesperson will show you the works! Computers that are more expensive because of other features can be avoided. Fast graphics cards, ultra-surround sound,High Definition Screens These extras are required by Gamers, whose addictions are worse than gambling!

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Rarely spoken of, but must be considered: After the purchase of hardware, it must be realized that there is an ongoing expense in owning and using a computer.

• Maintenance subscriptions (Anti-virus, Registry cleaner) paid yearly, about $80
• Internet Service, paid monthly: can be about $30-$50
• Paper and Ink for printers
• Repair or setup services when technology goes haywire! At $65/hr plus.

Software needed will be primarily protective: for anti-virus, spyware and adware. Preferrably NOT the newest operating system, but rather the one your family and friends know, because they are the ones who you will ask first for "support" service.

The speed of HI-Speed cable or DSL Internet Service will help not only with impatience.. but it is necessary to be able to keep the phone line available at all times.

IF the computer novice is really not able to manage the technical aspects, then a service such as BIG SCREEN LIVE may save many hours of frustration. It is set up by a family member or friend to keep it simple. Read about it on the page for low vision.

You can also expect to want a new computer in 3-4 years because.. once you start to enjoy using one, you'll never want to do without. It becomes a good friend and an indispensable tool. Fortunately, as you become more experienced, you will know which choices are appropriate for you.

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