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You get HARDWARE
BUYER BEWARE:Will your new computer suit your present and future needs?
A “bargain basement” computer may be all you need IF:
►You are a home user, and no one else will be using it
►You want to write letters or do other simple tasks
►You want to browse the Internet
►You plan to send and receive E-mail
►Your computer use will not change as time goes by
IF two or more people will be using the computer, you will need:
►a larger hard drive for more file storage
►a clear idea how THEY will be using the computer (if they want to DO more, your computer may need to HAVE more- see the lists below)
IF you want to scan photos, work with digital images (like those on a digital camera, or download/edit music, you will need (in addition to the list above):
►an even larger hard drive
►more system memory (1.0 gigabytes is minimum, more is better, so computer performance won’t creep to a halt)
►a faster processor
►a CD burner (a DVD burner is better for archiving lots of files)
IF you are a small business user, or if you like to play the latest games, you may well need (in addition to the list above):
►a high end video graphics card
►a high end audio card
►a higher speed Network Interface Connection card
►the fastest processor you can afford
►even more system memory (2 gigabytes would be adequate)
►a network-secure operating system Windows XP Professional Edition, Windows Vista Business Premium, or most distributions of Linux)
BUYER BEWARE: Don’t settle for a less than adequate computer the “deal” you buy today will certainly disappoint you tomorrow.
You get SOFTWARE
Most (not all) computers come with some type of software. At a minimum, your computer should have an operating system (Windows or Linux) installed on it.
The operating system lets your computer run any programs you load on your computer. It helps protect you whenever you use the Internet, E-mail, or online chat. It allows you to connect peripherals (printer, scanner, speakers, etc. so they will work with your computer. And it downloads and installs Updates from the Internet to increase its stability and security as time goes by.
BUYER BEWARE: You have to set up, or “configure” your operating system to operate properly for you- it does not do this on its own!
You may also get PROGRAMS (word processor, office suite, games, etc.).
BUYER BEWARE: Increasingly, computers come with software you can try before you buy (use it for 60 or 90 days; then you will get a message saying you either need to purchase the software, or it will disable itself and stop working for you)! You thought it was free, but it is actually only a trial subscription.
Ask your computer store exactly what kind of software you are getting, and if there are any added or hidden costs for it.
Finally (and very importantly), you may get Malware protection software. Malware (“malicious software”, like viruses, Trojans, keyloggers, hijackers, Spyware, Adware, and more...) Infections are rampant and highly destructive to your computer. They are also a growing source of Identity Theft. Some computers come with Malware protection and/or a firewall installed on it.
BUYER BEWARE: Your protection may also be “try before you buy” software! Is it already paid for? You would hate to have it disable itself because you couldn’t afford to pay for it when its subscription came due- find out ahead of time.
BUYER BEWARE: Just because it is installed on your computer does NOT mean it is protecting you. All Malware protection software is preset to low “factory default” settings- it is up to you to make sure the settings are configured to give you maximum protection. And increasingly, what is actually “installed” on your computer is a registration agreement. If you agree to the licensing terms, only then does the protection software begin the installation process.
BUYER BEWARE: All Malware protection software is only good on your computer for a limited subscription time (usually one year). When your subscription time is up, DO NOT re-subscribe- go to your computer store and buy the newest version of the software. Today’s protection will not be adequate for tomorrow’s threats; and each year the protection companies add new improved features to deal with the newest Malware menaces out there.
BUYER BEWARE: It is not enough to have your Malware protection installed and configured on your computer- it is essential to download and install Updates for it (daily, if possible). These updates tell your software what new threats to look for, and how to deal with them when found.
BUYER BEWARE: Operating system, programs, Malware protection and Firewall- these may be loaded on your computer, but does it come with the
installation CDs? Increasingly, companies are cutting costs by copying the installations on to your hard drive. If your hard drive ever fails (it eventually will!) You will have to contact the computer company and purchase the CDs. That just isn’t fair! Why should you have to pay for what is presumed you will already have when needed? Check with your computer store if the Installation CDs come with the computer.
You get SUPPORT
Your new computer comes with some kind of warranty outlining repair and replacement options.
BUYER BEWARE: You have to register your computer with the company before your warranty goes into effect. There should be a registration card enclosed with your computer; or you may register online once your computer is connected to the Internet. Don’t neglect this crucial step.
Back in the old days, a manual (or several) was shipped with new computers. You got books. But books are expensive to publish and print.
BUYER BEWARE: Your documentation may reside on one of the CDs which came with your computer. If there are no CDs, explore the contents and programs installed on your computer- you may find your documentation is installed somewhere.
BUYER BEWARE: Read your documentation- it will certainly save you costly mistakes later.
BUYER BEWARE: Phone support is costly after warranty expires.
Contact your friendly well-informed KandiComp representative today for valuable assistance selecting your next computer.
Call: (320)235-2701 Fax: (320)235-0260
E-mail: support@kandicomp.com Web: www.kandicomp.com
©2004-2008, KandiComp™ LLC All rights reserved.
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