Computer Direct

Computer buyer’s guide for newbies!

Buying your first computer can be a daunting task, especially if you cannot understand technical terms all that well. However, you can get a good deal by simply following a few buying tips.

Going for cheap: When you consider computer prices in determining which system to buy, you can be able to get a competent computer. However, if ever you encounter a problem, the dealer may not provide repair services because most stores that offer computer discount packages exclude service to bring down the price. As such, it is more important to buy from reputable dealers that always offer free service, even for a limited time, than to choose other retailers because of price.

Asking inappropriate questions: When shopping for new or used computer, you should think before you ask a salesperson a question. Most employees in a computer shop cannot explain technical jargons like MHz and GPU in layman’s terms. As such, you may be duped into spending more money for unnecessary computer accessories, obsolete software, and even useless parts. Make sure to do some reading before you go out to shop.

Buying a complete package: Whether you’re buying a new system or a refurbished computer, you need to make sure that you’ll be receiving a complete system. Your system will not work without a monitor, memory, hard drive, keyboard, mouse and software, among others. However, you should also avoid buying too much computer parts. Before you make upgrades to your system’s parts, make sure you understand everything there is to know about your basic system.

Computer store: The warranty coverage of your newly bought system will vary depending on where you bought the computer. Reputable shops usually offer a 1-year warranty for new systems and a 3-month warranty for refurbished items. If you’re buying at online auctions or websites, make sure to pay using your credit card, instead of cheques or cash. This way, you can file a dispute with your credit card company should a problem arise between you and the seller.

Buying a system and computer accessories on your own can be rewarding, but before you shop around, make sure you know the basic PC terms, identify the specifications based on your computing needs, determine what parts you need and those you don’t need, as well as making a research in choosing a computer store.