HOW TO BUY A COMPUTER
(First Published in The Miser's Gazette)

Since a computer (PC) is a sizeable investment, avoid the “ rush” of buying the first one you see. With this in mind, you should try to familiarize yourself with some of the more common terms used in describing a computer.

Before you go out to the store, you may want to start your search via the ads in one of the local computer magazines, Monitor and Ottawa Computes! These two, free magazines also offer a great deal of current information concerning the Internet and computers. You can probably find one at your local Ottawa Public Library branch, or at any computer store in the area.

A typical PC ad reads:

AMD Duron 1.3 GHz
256 MB RAM
40 GB Hard Drive
32MB Graphics Card
50X CD-ROM
1.44MB Floppy Drive
56K Modem
SoundBlaster 32-bit

Processor: Consider this the “ brain” of the computer. Also known as the CPU. There are several types of processors available (primarily from AMD and Intel). To compare these chips, here’s a list of some of them in order of performance and speed.

- Intel Pentium 4
- AMD Athlon / Thunderbird (T-Bird)
- Intel Pentium (P-III)
- AMD Duron
- Intel Celeron
- AMD K6-III
- AMD K6-II
- Intel P-II

Note that the above list is a rough estimate since computing ‘power’ is determined by the speed (MHz) of the chip and the applications used. So the ‘bigger’ the number next to the MHz is, the ‘faster’ the processor. Just to let you know, we have now surpassed the 2 GHz mark for CPUs!!!

For beginners, who plan on using their computer for the Internet, word processing, and the occasional ‘high-end’ game, a 500MHz should be sufficient for the time being.

Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory is the ‘thinking space’ that the ‘brain’ uses to perform its tasks. Once again, the larger the number of megabytes (MB), the better. (128MB should be the bare minimum). If you plan on getting Windows XP as your operating system, plan on getting 256MB. You should get as much as you can afford.

Hard Drive: This is where all of your computer files and programs are stored. With programs getting larger, go for at least 20GB. Eventually you’ll fill up any hard disk drive over the next couple of years.

CD-ROM: Allows you to store and use programs on a compact disc. (48X speed minimum)

1.44MB Floppy Drive: Although it’s becoming less popular, your PC should not be without a floppy drive.

Graphics (Video) Card: If you are going to use your PC for extreme gaming and/or artistic renditions, you should consider a ‘specialized’ 3D graphics card to get full performance. Otherwise, almost any graphics card will do.

Monitor: Don’t get a cheap monitor because this is the piece of equipment you’ll be staring at. Pick one that feels comfortable. (minimum 15-inch colour)

Modem: To connect to the Internet, you’ll need a modem. If you’re going to use your regular telephone line for a connection, be sure you have a 56K modem installed. For cable and DSL connections, consult your high-speed Internet provider for more info.

Sound Card: As the name states, this allows you to play sounds and music on your PC. 16-bit minimum and be sure they include two speakers.

Printer: Consider purchasing an ink-jet printer as they are considerably cheaper than laser ones. 720 X 720 minimum resolution. Also consider the cost of replacement cartridges.

Warranty: Be sure that the PC comes with a warranty for parts and labour. (minimum: 1 year but try getting the longest time period possible without having to pay an extra fee for it).
 

Things to Consider when Purchasing a PC:

- Does the store have a good reputation for quality products and service?
- Do they allow you to pick which components you want installed or is it a packaged deal?
- Make sure your PC has the ‘room’ for future upgrades. Ensure you have extra slots available.
- Are there any strings attached? (ie. Do I have to sign a long-term agreement with an Internet Service Provider?) If so, visit another store.
- Request price quotes for your ‘customized’ PC from several stores.