How to buy a Computer for your Home

This year, more than ever before, a lot of families are seriously considering purchasing a computer. Computer prices have now dropped significantly and there is a wide range of friendly software available for learning, managing home finances, and taking care of the home business. Indeed almost every home can benefit from a computer. Different families have different concerns. In some cases the adults in the household want to be able to bring work home, so that they do not have to drive down to the office after hours. In other instances the adults work out of the home, and they need the capabilities of a computer system to manage their business. In most homes the young members of the family need to to use the computer to complete their school work or brush-up on some of their skills. The computer is this incredible multi-purpose machine that can help homes carry out so many different tasks equally well. The low prices this year for sensational Multimedia computers has brought even more families into the market. It is astonishing to think that for less than $ 3,000, you can now buy enough equipment to satisfy the computer needs of all members of the family and at the same time set up a complete shop in your home and keep pace with the rest of the business world. All it takes is a personal computer, software, and a printer. Here is a quick shopping list that should help the first time buyer:

1. Which System ?

Computer technology evolves fast and computers become obsolete before they wear out. You have to invest wisely in power. Most homes make the decision to invest in an IBM or compatible DOS/Windows system, since these systems dominate the market and give you access to a far wider range of software, upgrades, and accessories. The minimum in processor power to consider for your home now is an Intel 486DX processor and most people opt for Intel Pentium processor. Look for the new PCI 64-bit databus that can keep-up with the speed of the Pentium processor. RAM is the 'work area' memory the computer uses to think. The minimum memory to run the new Windows and OS/2 programs is 8 MB.

2. What capacity ?

The hard disk acts as a permanent storage space for your software and data files. Every new generation of software takes-up more storage. It is wise to invest in a large hard disk drive. A 540 MB hard disk is the minimum you should consider today and most computer models come with a larger 1 Gig hard disk. Expandability is a plus. Make sure the computer has a drive bay to add a CD ROM drive or a tape backup unit, and it has free expansion slots to add fax modems, sound cards, and other expansion cards. A fast fax-modem (at least 14.4 kbps speed) is a sensible upgrade, since it is necessary to communicate with other computers and to access the Internet, the world-wide network of computers that offers practically unlimited information resources.

3. What type of display monitor ?

Output is important. Invest in a 14" colour SuperVGA monitor that is sharp, with a dot pitch of .28mm or less. A Non-interlaced type of monitor is preferable, for less flicker. Also check for the new MPRII rating on the monitor, to ensure the monitor meets safety guidelines for low radiation.

4. What type of Printer ?

When it comes to buying a printer , there are just three choices: dot matrix, inkjet/bubblejet and laser. Dot matrix printers are the least expensive (start at about $200), but are noisier, slower, and offer lower print quality. Laser printers are quiet, fast, and generate perfect print quality, but they are too expensive for most homes and they do not do colour printing. Inkjet printers are the most popular printers for homes because they are quiet, fast, and offer high print quality. Some models also offer excellent printing in colour !

5. What about Multimedia ?

Over the last couple of years there is a trend for many technologies - graphics, sound, CD-ROM, and others - to converge, creating what has been called "multimedia" applications for computers. Most of these software programs are suited for home, since they are in education and entertainment. Today Multimedia capability is almost a necessity in a home computer. More and more of the software is released in a CD-ROM format, because a CD can hold as much as 650 MB of data. This makes it perfect for storing an encyclopedia, for example. A CD-ROM drive combined with a sound board and speakers tranforms the computer into a powerful tool for learning and entertainment. Look for a Quad (4-speed) CD ROM and a 16-bit Soundboard in the computer you are buying for acceptable speed and performance that most of the new software on CDs requires.

6. Where do you shop for a computer ?

You should purchase your computer from an outlet that understands the needs of your home and that is well equipped to serve your future needs. If a computer store has completed many home installations, they should be able to give you straight answers about what is the most suitable fit for your family. Also look for references and for post-purchase hand-holding because you probably will need it. You should consider investing in a computer made by a major manufacturer and you should purchase your system from an established reliable local source that has qualified technicians on staff that can offer service when needed. Take your time to make the right choice. Many outlets selling to the home market carry only a limited number of products and are staffed by inexperienced people that have only one objective - to sell you the computer model they have in stock. Do not be rushed into buying a system that does not meet your needs and do not buy too little !

George Karaphillis, B.Eng., MBA is co-owner of Alliance Computer Systems, Sydney, and specializes in computers for homes and businesses. This article originally appeared in the Cape Breton Buyers Guide.

Back to articles menu

Go to next article