tips for buying a desktop

[tirumani]

Case
While the case may not be important to some computer users it is a consideration to be thought about before purchasing a desktop computer.
1. What type of case should be purchased or is needed? Do you want a desktop or tower case?
2. Does the case support the standards of motherboards, i.e. ATX motherboard standard?
3. Will the case fit on top of or below your desk.
4. Will the drives be accessible or will they be positioned the way you wish them to be positioned?

CD Media
The type of CD drive in the computer is becoming an important consideration when purchasing a computer. When looking to buy a new or used computer inspect the type of drive included.
1. Is it a standard drive? If so what speed?
2. Or is it a DVD / CD-R / CD-RW drive?
3. If the drive is a DVD is it hardware or software decoding?
4. If the drive is a CD-R / CD-RW drive does it include software?

Hard Drive
Hard drives have and always will be an important consideration to think about when purchasing a new computer or used computer. The hard drive will be the destination of all your files and information and if that drive is to become full that drive will need to be replaced or another drive will need to be added to the computer. When looking at the space of the hard drive, always get the maximum size hard drive considering you will eventually always run out of space.

Memory
Memory is and has always been an important consideration when looking at purchasing a computer determine the amount of memory included in the computer as well as verify if that memory can be upgraded in the future. The more memory the computer the more efficient the computer will run. Recommended 2GB RAM.

Monitor
Older computers came with 14 or 15 inch monitors. Many new computers have 17 or 21 inch monitors, but they often cost extra.

Network Card
With the increase with more then one computer in the house and with broad band solutions sometimes requiring a network card a network card is becoming an important consideration when purchasing a computer. Network cards allow users to connect to other computers and have small networks in their home or office. This allows for data transfer, file sharing, internet connection sharing, printer sharing and various other helpful uses.

Processor
The computer processor is and will always be an important consideration when purchasing a computer. Today with multiple CPU/Processor manufacturers it may be more confusing as well as more cost efficient to look at the different processor manufactures as well as the type of computer processors.

Sound Card
Sound cards are important when looking at purchasing a computer however the majority of all computer users will find that most standard sound cards will suite their needs. However some users may enjoy purchasing more advanced sounds cards which will increase the amount of speakers that can be used and in some games and programs the sound quality and capabilities.

Video Card
Video cards are becoming an extremely important factor when purchasing a computer. While this may surprise some a video card can make or break a computer when it comes to playing games on the computer. Most games today require additional video memory as well as special video modes such as OpenGL. With a video card with little video memory or without these modes the computer will be unable to play these games. In addition the advances in video cards can dramatically increase the user enjoyment of the game being played.


BRAND OF COMPUTER
When looking at purchasing different types of computers you will likely hear different stories, some good and some bad. Regardless if the story is good or bad these stories are always based off of the experience of that user. While it may be true that the user had a bad or terrible experience with that computer, all computer manufactures have had users who have had a bad experience and there is no such thing as a bad or perfect computer manufacturer.Regardless, you should think about some of the things you might want to do. Some possibilities include:
- Connect to the internet
- Play games
- Digital photography
- Digital video
- Type documents
- Accounting
- Design websites
- Programming
- Digital scrapbooking
- Geneology

Warranty
Finally, what warranty is offered by the computer manufacturer? How long is the warranty? Does the warranty cover both hardware and software issues?Warranty can cause frustrations for most users we highly recommend that a computer only be considered if it has at least a one year warranty. Many cheap computers will only come with a 90 day warranty. Meaning if a part goes bad you will have to pay for the part as well as the service. This may not be an issue for users who just need a cheap computer and are willing to replace parts and service the computer.

And lastly price should be between 500$-700$ considering all these factors.

[compt 134]

Really good tips. I would recommend flat LCD, 19" which I think comes around $200?. Can you recommend the latest LCD of higher inches?

Thanks
Jordan