The first question you need to ask yourself is why you need a
computer and for what purpose you will use it:
* Surfing the Internet * Sending and receiving e-mail * Word
Processing * Spreadsheet and Money management * Listening and
recording music * Storing and manipulating images * Playing games
When you are certain that you really need a computer then you
need to consider what computer to purchase.
The most common type of computer is the PC. Fewer and fewer
people these days use Macintoshes and while Apple still makes
them they are used primarily for graphics work at the high end
multimedia level.
For home or office use you may be far better purchasing a
desktop PC with pre-installed software. And PC prices are on the
way down.
Of course notebook computers are really great if you want to
take advantage of the portability that they offer, although you
really need to weigh this against the cost — as laptops are
still much more expensive than your average PC with the same
functionality.
You need to determine what capabilities you want your computer
to have – the size of the hard drive, the memory and the types
of cards – video and audio – that it comes with.
For a standard home or basic office use you should be adequately
served by 256Mb of RAM memory with a 80Gb hard drive for storage.
Two other things to consider are that you will need a monitor
and software.
For a monitor, try for a 17 inch so that you don\’t have to
squint to see what is on your screen. Flat panel displays are
great for saving space too and the clarity of the displays now
are quite impressive.
Most computers will come installed with software. Find what
software the PC will come with and work out if this is all you
need.
Basic word processing, spreadsheet and email/organizer software
is adequate for most people and the ability to access the
internet will require a modem installed as well.
If you are worried about learning to use your computer, don\’t
be. There are tutorials within Windows XP to help get you
started, and \”wizards\” are easy to use, step by step programs
built into Windows that will help you learn a lot too.
Plus, once you get hooked up and online with your own computer,
you will have access to millions of sites ready and willing to
help you learn all about your new desktop PC, the software you
have, and even learn how to do things you never imagined!
Check out more of our articles on the parts of a computer to
help you understand what computer components you need and what
you don\’t before you buy!
http://www.cheap-computers-guide.com/computer-components.html
About the author:
Computer buying
tips and tutorials on building your own desktop PC start
with the basics from Guy