Saturday, February 04, 2006
Back To school ... buying a pc?
At this time of year many people are looking for a cut price PC the student in the family so they can do there assignments. Families often do not have a lot money often and a second hand pc can be the way out for many but things can go wrong and some times it can be easier if you may have spent the extra dosh.
The Victorian department of consumer affairs has some great tips for buying and I have put them below. These are tips for general purchasing of any PC buying.
Understanding the products available. It helps to understand how a computer works and what the jargon means before making a decision. To get a handle on the jargon try www.webopedia.com or go to http://whatis.techtarget.com
2. What kind of computer do you need? Salespeople may try to persuade you to buy expensive packages with features that you will hardly use. If you mainly use your computer for word processing and spreadsheets, a lower end model should do the job.
3. Shop around. Get at least three quotes in writing with every component listed. That way you can make sure that you’re getting everything you need and you can make real comparisons. Ask about after sales service and support, warranties and payment plans. Consumers should also carefully examine the conditions, exclusions and amount payable under extended warranty policies.
4. Big brand or custom built? With ready-to-go brand name packages, you have the guarantee that all the hardware is compatible and well-matched. Built-to-order systems require more homework and research but may save you quite a lot of money.
5. New or second-hand? Second hand or refurbished computers are cheaper but you need to be careful. It’s better to buy from a registered business rather than at auctions, swap meets, online or from private dealers. You’ll have more chance of redress if things go wrong.
6. Buy, lease or flexi-rent? Leasing has advantages if you will be using the computer for work as well. Just remember to read the fine print of the contract and be clear about all the costs involved and what you’re getting in return for your money.
Source: Victorian Consumer Affairs
The Victorian department of consumer affairs has some great tips for buying and I have put them below. These are tips for general purchasing of any PC buying.
Understanding the products available. It helps to understand how a computer works and what the jargon means before making a decision. To get a handle on the jargon try www.webopedia.com or go to http://whatis.techtarget.com
2. What kind of computer do you need? Salespeople may try to persuade you to buy expensive packages with features that you will hardly use. If you mainly use your computer for word processing and spreadsheets, a lower end model should do the job.
3. Shop around. Get at least three quotes in writing with every component listed. That way you can make sure that you’re getting everything you need and you can make real comparisons. Ask about after sales service and support, warranties and payment plans. Consumers should also carefully examine the conditions, exclusions and amount payable under extended warranty policies.
4. Big brand or custom built? With ready-to-go brand name packages, you have the guarantee that all the hardware is compatible and well-matched. Built-to-order systems require more homework and research but may save you quite a lot of money.
5. New or second-hand? Second hand or refurbished computers are cheaper but you need to be careful. It’s better to buy from a registered business rather than at auctions, swap meets, online or from private dealers. You’ll have more chance of redress if things go wrong.
6. Buy, lease or flexi-rent? Leasing has advantages if you will be using the computer for work as well. Just remember to read the fine print of the contract and be clear about all the costs involved and what you’re getting in return for your money.
Source: Victorian Consumer Affairs
# posted by Peter Saville - IT Consultant @ 10:25 PM 
