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How to Buy a New Computer There are so many things to consider when buying a new computer, and many things to beware of. Pensacola Computers has compiled a list of things to consider when purchasing a new computer, along with some guidelines to help you find the best computer for you at the best price. If you are getting ready to buy a new computer, give us a call today BEFORE you buy! Our general advice is always free, and we offer services for those who want more comprehensive help, as well as new computer setup and configuration service. For a small fee, we will even come shopping with you at local Pensacola merchants to help you get the best out of your purchase and make sure you are not given bad advice or taken advantage of by salespeople! Most new computers sold today come with Microsoft Windows, so we are going to focus on this type of computer. Once you have read the guide, check out Pensacola Computers Local Computer Deals Page for the best deals we have found at local Pensacola Area stores. The best deals often come with rebates - make sure that you fill in all the rebate info exactly as required, and mail in by the date indicated. If you are looking for an online purchase from a major manufacturer such as HP, or Dell, take time and wait for the special deals which come around every couple of months - you can save as much as 25 - 30% or more by waiting for the specials! **One very important note when buying computers from local retailers: Most computer salespeople in large retail stores have little computer knowledge, and although they may sound like they know what they are talking about, many times they are wrong and misleading. Think about it - if they really knew that much about computers, why would they be working as a salesperson making low wages? In addition, many stores that offer special computer services by a 'squad' of so called experts, often charge excessive rates and install overpriced and bloated software that actually slows your computer down. Pensacola Computers does not recommend using pre-installed security products as there are often much better and less expensive products available. Another thing to consider before you spend a lot of money on expensive security products is the Microsoft Windows Vista comes with both a built-in firewall, and antispyware software. The best computer buyer is an informed buyer, and you should never trust what you are told by a salesperson - research before you buy, and give us a call with any questions - our general advice is always free! Things to consider before making a purchase: 1.) What are you going to use the computer for? Business, home use, computer gaming, photo and video editing? What kind of computer hardware you need will be dependent upon these factors. 2.) Will you want to easily upgrade the computer in the future? To increase the life of your computer, and your investment, it is important to know how easy it is to upgrade certain components of your computer such as RAM (memory), Hard Drive (storage), Graphics Adapters (video), CPU (processor - or computer brain). Also, with the newest version of Windows (Vista) scheduled to come out in early 2007, you want to make sure that your hardware is compatible. 3.) What kind of accessories are you going to want or need with your new computer? With a new computer you may want or need a new monitor, printer, keyboard, mouse, and networking components such as a wireless card/router. 4.) What is your budget for your new computer? You need to take into account the additional charges often associated with a new computer purchase, such as: Accessories, extended warranty, security software, business/office software, and multimedia software. What you need to know about Computer Hardware. CPU (processor - or computer brain): Choosing the type of processor you want in your computer will depend upon what you want to do on the computer, and what your budget is. Many newer mid to high end computers now come with 64 bit capable processors (this is important if you want to upgrade to a 64 bit version of Windows), and most of the newer high performance CPU's are Dual Core processors (basically 2 CPU's on top of each other). If possible, considering your budget, a 64 bit processor is recommended. In the current computer market, there are two main manufacturers of CPU's - Intel and AMD. Both of these manufacturers have a number of processor lines which we will explain in the table below. *Note: this is not a complete list of processors, just the one's more common in desktop computers.
Bottom Line on Processors: The new Intel Core 2 Dou's are top of the line and faster than any other for both business and gaming .However, for gaming, AMD 64 and X2 processors have the clear advantage over the older Pentium processors For business applications, Intel processors generally perform better. Both Intel and AMD have recently slashed many of their processor prices, and the desktop packages offered by many manufacturers should drop soon as well. RAM (memory): There are many different types of RAM, and at times, all of the different types and numbers seem confusing. The amount of memory in a computer is usually referred to in MB (Megabytes). For new computers running average applications, we recommend a minimum of 512 MB. For more intense use such as in gaming, running multiple applications, multimedia, or business applications, we recommend 1 GB (1024 MB). For the ultra gamer or super user, you may want to consider 2 GB (2048 MB) or more. The size and number of memory sticks in a computer, as well as the number of memory slots, will be a factor for upgrades. Most mid to high range computer systems come with 4 memory slots, and it is important to find out how many of the slots are used. For example, the computer may come with 512 MB, but it could be one 512 MB memory stick, or 2x256 MB memory sticks. For future upgrades, the more open slots you have available, the easier it will be to upgrade. When upgrading RAM, check to see if your computer uses 'Dual Channel' RAM - if it does, you will need to have the identical type of RAM, and preferably RAM made by the same manufacturer in order for the RAM to function properly in Dual Channel mode. Depending upon your computer, the most common memory types are PC2700/PC3200 (also called DDR 333/400), PC 4200 (also called DDR2 533), and the newer PC 5400 (also called DDR2 667). The type of memory you need is specific to your system, so always check before you buy! Graphics Adapters (Video): Video cards come from a variety of manufacturers, with varying specifications and types. There 4 main types of Graphics Adapters: Integrated (part of the motherboard), PCI cards (an older specifications), AGP cards (a newer specification), and PCI-Express or PCI-E cards (the newest specifications). Many computers with Integrated graphics come with an open graphic slot for upgrades, and these can be either PCI, AGP, or PCI-E.) For the upcoming Windows Vista, if you want full graphics support, you need a DirectX 9c compatible card with Pixel Shader 2.0 support and a minimum of 128MB (256MB or more is recommended) - make sure to check if the card is Vista Ready before you buy! For the hard core gamer, the new DirectX 10 Windows Vista graphics cards are becoming available, and these are the cards to get for the future. What kind of graphics adapter you will need will depend on what you want to use the computer for. Many low and mid range computers come with integrated graphic adapters (part of the motherboard, not a separate card). Unfortunately, to keep prices down, most new computer systems now come with integrated graphics. Integrated graphics are best for general applications and light graphic demands. A major factor when considering a computer with Integrated graphics is whether it will accept an add-in card, and what type. Some low end, and many mid range computers come with AGP graphics cards. Most of these cards are good for general and business applications, and general gaming. Most mid range and high end computer systems now come with PCI-E graphics slots for add in cards - a few come with the cards themselves. These cards are generally much higher performing than other cards and are good for all general and business applications, and most games. For extreme gamers (and for the upcoming new Windows Vista), a high performance PCI-E card is recommended. One important note about graphics adaptors: When deciding upon graphics card performance, the amount of memory they have, ie 128 MB, 256 MB, or 512 MB, is not always the most important factor. There are a number of 128 MB cards that will outperform some 256 MB cards. The best thing to do, especially if buying a computer for gaming, is to do some research on the web concerning different makes and models of graphics cards. Hard Drives (storage): There are two major types of hard drives in modern computers: ATA (IDE) or Serial ATA (SATA). Most mid to high end systems come with SATA drives, which are faster and better performing than ATA drives. SATA drives are available as SATA 150 or SATA 300 (also called SATA II.) The size of drive(s) you need will depend on what you are going to use the computer for. Computer programs, and operating systems (Windows) are getting larger and larger, so more space is needed. An 80-120 GB Hard Drive should be enough for most casual users who use general and business applications. For multimedia computers (especially those with Windows Media Center 2005), or users who want to store a lot of photos, music, videos etc, a 250 - 500 GB drive, or multiple drives are recommended. For Gamers and Power Users, large multiple drives are recommended for better performance and storage. Some computers also advertise a feature called RAID (Redundant Array of Independent (or Inexpensive) Disks). RAID is a way to use multiple drives for either performance (RAID 0) or for Data Integrity (RAID 1). In RAID 0, the data is split across two disks with the data being written and read from both at the same time which increases performance. In RAID 1, identical data is written to both disks so that if one drive fails, the other will still contain all of your data. There are also other types of RAID, but these two are the most commonly used. Accessories and special hardware considerations TV Cards: Many people like to watch TV on their computers and there are a couple of considerations for this when it comes to TV cards. Some computers (but not all) which have Microsoft Media Center 2005 come with a TV card already installed. If you buy a computer with Microsoft Media Center 2005, but it does not have one preinstalled, you MUST buy a TV card which is specifically made for Media Center. For computers with Windows XP (Home or PRO), there are a number of PCI, or USB TV Cards which you can install. Generally these types of cards come with their own software which is similar to Media Center 2005 and will let you watch and record live TV. Monitors: There are two main kind of monitors which are sold for computers: CRT (similar looking to a TV), or LCD or Flat Panel (which are not to be confused with Flat Screen). Generally, LCD monitors seem to be easier on the eyes, and take up less room on your desktop, however they are more expensive that CRT monitors. Either type of monitor will work for the majority of computer users, however gamers will want to check the specifications of LCD monitors closely as the response time on many are not as good as on CRT's. Printers: There are a great number of printers which are available for different needs. For the most part, the average inkjet printer is good for general printing, and medium quality photos. For high quality photos, a good photo printer is needed. For large printing and frequent printing jobs, a laser printer is recommended for both speed and cost effectiveness. One of the most important factors for the average computer user to consider when choosing a printer is the cost of the printer ink. Most printer manufacturers make little if any money on selling printers; they depend on people buying the printer ink, which can be quite expensive! What you need to know about Computer Software Operating System (Windows): The majority of Computers sold today come with Microsoft Windows. There are 3 main versions which computers come with: Windows XP Home, Windows XP Pro, and XP Media Center Edition 2005. The main difference between XP Home and XP Pro has to do with with XP Pro's ability to join a network domain, and some advanced User and Security configuration features. For most home users, XP Home will do the job. XP Pro is for the advanced or business user. XP Media Center Edition is found on more and more systems being offered, and with a TV Tuner will allow you to watch and record live TV. The one cautionary warning about computers which are sold with Media Center 2005 is that if the computer description says "Software Only" this means that the computer does NOT come with a TV card, so if you want to watch TV on it you will have to buy a TV card. If you do buy a TV card make sure that it is compatible with Media Center 2005. *Special note about Windows: The next version of Windows (called Vista) will be released in early 2007. Windows Vista will have a much better level of built in security as well as a wealth of new features. Windows Vista will however have much higher hardware requirements than previous versions of Windows. Currently the recommended hardware consists of a newer processor (preferably one that will run 64 bit applications), at least 1 GB of RAM, and to run all of the new visual effects it is suggested to have a PCI-E graphics card with 256 MB of video memory. We at Pensacola Computers have been Beta Testing Windows Vista for Microsoft, and we can say that it is going to be very cool when it is released. Our best advice is to buy a computer which has a newer processor, at least a GB of RAM, and an available PCI-E graphics slot, then when Vista is released, you can buy a compatible graphics card as the exact specifications have not been finalized. Some new computers now have a 'Vista Ready' logo on them - look for these to ensure your system will be compatible. If you have questions about Windows Vista - give us a call, we have been working with Windows Vista throughout the Beta test cycle. If you are interested in a demonstration of Windows Vista, we are running it on a number of systems and would be glad to give you a free demonstration - give us a call to set up an appointment. **Special Note: Beginning October 26, 2006, most major manufacturers will be offering Windows Vista upgrade coupons with the purchase of a new system. These coupons will entitle the purchasers of new systems a free or reduced price upgrade to Windows Vista when it is released to the public in January. Pre-installed Software: Most computers come with a variety of pre-installed software. Some of this software such as CD/DVD burning software, and DVD players are needed to use your hardware. There is often other 'Trial' Software such as Antivirus, Firewall, Antispyware, and ISP software such as MSN and AOL which is installed. Although Security software is definitely needed, most of the preinstalled versions such as Norton's and McAfee are expensive and have a reputation for slowing down your machine and causing conflicts with other programs. There are a number of free and paid for versions of Security software which work just as good, if not better, and use a lot less of your computer's resources. See the Pensacola Computers Tech Page for some links to the best free and paid for Security Software. Some computer bundles also come with software such as Microsoft Office, which when purchased separately is usually pretty expensive. Read the computer descriptions carefully though to see if the software pre-installed on your new computer is the full version, or if it is just a 'Trial' version which you will have to pay to continue using past a certain time. Many computer stores will try to sell you add-on security packages. These packages are not only expensive, but they are often versions of software which are over bloated and will actually slow down your system. For casual home users there are a number of FREE antivirus and anti-spyware solutions which are as good or better than what most of these stores will offer you. And there are certainly much better programs available for the same or less. Please see our Tech Page for links to the best free and paid for security software, or give us a call with any questions you may have. A tip about 'Custom-built' computers. Major manufacturers generally spend a lot of time and money making sure that the components in their systems work well together, and work with Microsoft Windows. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with custom-built computers. Just because a system has all high quality parts does not mean that those parts will function well together. In addition, few custom builders can beat the prices of major manufacturers. For the average computer user, the safer bet is a computer from a large manufacturer. For more experienced users, or users who have unique computer needs, take the time to research the components which are offered and check out the reputation of the builder before ordering a custom system. Be very careful when buying a custom built system, as many cut-rate offerings do not come with Windows installed. If Windows is pre-installed, make sure you get a certificate of authenticity, or a guarantee that the software will pass Microsoft's Genuine Advantage verification, otherwise you will not be able to get updates from Microsoft. Pensacola Computers can custom build and configure a system for you based upon your needs - give us a call for an estimate.
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