Computers became an important part of our lives. Practically every companies in North America, Europe and Asia owns a computer. A knowledge of computers are essential nowadays. A good way to acquire such knowledge is to sit down in front of the computer and start learning. It helps if you know someone who can assist you. It is costly to go to school to learn to use a computer, and it is not practical.
What to look for if you are in the market to buy a computer. First you consider your needs (what you require) and budget. There are two types of desktop computer (IBM or clone & Apple platform) and many name brand systems in the market today. Remember that computer technology turnaround is rapid. For example when you buy the latest product in the market you'll find that a few months later that it is not, so chose wisely and according to your needs. The other thing you need to know is that the depreciation of value on computers are high. If you are buying an older model or second hand computer know exactly it's market value. Most retail prices are too high considering their true cost, especially on second hand models.
These are a list of required components to look for:
1. Desktop Type, Notebook (IBM/Clone or Apple)
- CPU (Central Processing Unit) type and brand (examples, Pentium III 500 mhz, AMD Athlon & etc.)
- RAM (Random access memory) Minimum required nowadays are 32 megs (Mega Byte) or more
- Hard Drive type and storage size, ranging from 4 megs and above
- CD Rom drive (Read only, Read/Write, DVD type & etc.)
- Ports: Com 1, Com 2, Parallel
- Floppy (3.25")
- Modem (necessary to connect to the internet by phone line)
- Sound card (enables you to listen to multi media applications, example music & videos)
- Network Card (high speed connection/network connection)
- Operating system (example, Windows 98, Windows ME, Linux or O/S2)
2. Monitor (SVGA or VGA) - size ranging from 15", 17", 19" or above
3. Keyboard and mouse (by default included with the desktop)
ADD-ONS
- Printer (Dot matrix, Inkjet or Laser)
- Joystick (for games)
- Camera
- Scanner
- High Speed Interface
- Application program (Spreadsheet, Word processor Games & etc.)
- Consumables (printer cartridge, paper, CD & etc.)
- Miscellaneous add-ons for advance users
PRICE RANGE
Prices ranges from $500 to $4,000, depending on your budget.
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