What is important for you in a computer?

Why is it used, really?

This question may seem silly, as it appears to be one of those implied obvious questions, but the seller may not tell you if you don’t ask. It’s not even ludicrous to ask them to boot the computer up right in front of you. It’s important to ask details such as this because many used computers don’t come with warranties, and if the seller can get the computer out of his hands, than he’s not responsible, nor will he care if it’s broken or if it’s not. Perhaps the CPU was overheating, this problem wouldn’t be displayed until after you had already purchased the computer and used it for a while. This is why it’s always important for the buyer to check and to double check with the company that the computer is ready for use again.

Computer Specs

This is really important no matter what, whether the computer is used or new. Always make sure you check the essentially specs and make sure that they’re up to snuff with your standards. Most casual users need only to have a good processor speed and preferably over 2 gigabytes of ram. If you’re a power or multimedia user you may also want to check the video card and make sure that extra USB plugs and other features are readily available. It’s always important, though, to keep your range of specs in perspective. If you’re a casual user, don’t pay for a more expensive computer with features that you will not need.

Is This Computer Stolen?

Quality and your needs aren’t the only things to check when purchasing a used computer. It’s also important that you question if this computer is genuine, or that all of the parts inside of it were obtained by legal means. It’s very easy for companies and people to steal parts and plant them into a computer to make a cheap profit. This could unintentionally get you into legal trouble, which is the last thing that you want to happen.

Remember when buying a new computer that it’s most important that you verify the authenticity of the computer and that it meets the needs that you require. Don’t be afraid to ask the essential questions, or to demand proof that it’s fully functioning or genuine.

Photo Credits: Pacfolly

Originally posted 2009-12-02 03:18:08.

MacBooks

Technical Specs

While this may not be the first thing that jumps out at you when looking for a new computer it’s the most important. Making sure that your computer is technically up to date and can run all the software you want takes precedence over aesthetics and extras. Make sure that your laptop has at least 2 gigabytes of RAM preferably and a duo core processor. Processor speed is measured in GHz and the higher the number the better; ideal range is 2.3-3.0. Another specification that you need to worry about when purchasing a MacBook is the battery life. MacBooks tend to have a great battery life but it’s important to upgrade your battery if you feel the default is not high enough. Other technically specifications that are notable are hard drive space and wireless access. Make sure that the wireless is compatible with your home, work and school addresses.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics should be something you look for after verifying the technical specs of the machine. Make sure that the color and size of the MacBook are what you’re expecting, as well as things such as the quality of screen when it’s turned on. It’s important to note that when you increase screen size on a laptop that the price will start to increase dramatically. Again, don’t buy your computer because it’s visually appealing; make sure that you judge the visuals after you have judged the computer technically.

Warranty

Having a warranty on your MacBook isn’t a necessity, but many people often feel much safer when they get a warranty. The limited warranty most likely will not cover spills or other accident related causes of fault, and MacBooks aren’t the cheapest computers out there. While there price denotes their quality, it’s still important to buy a warranty.

When buying a MacBook, consider all of the following and you will make a purchase that you will not regret in the future. Always remember to judge the computer technically before you judge it visually and you are sure to make the correct buy.

Photo Credits: strollers

Originally posted 2009-11-24 03:01:47.

Things to Remember When Buying a Gaming Computer

* RAM-Ram or Random Access Memory is one of the biggest problems that many people face when trying to create a PC that can run high end video games. The good news is that RAM is probably the least expensive hardware cost that you will spend, being about $150 at most. Make sure if possible that the RAM you buy is DDRM3 and not 2 because DDRM3 will be faster. It’s important to have at least two gigabytes of ram if you’re running Vista, but you should shoot for four.

* Graphics Card-Your GPU or graphics card is probably the most important part of your purchase when buying a gaming computer. It’s important to note what memory associates your GPU. You should ideally shoot for about 512 MB along side of your card, but it’s completely acceptable to buy a 256 card. It’s extremely important to realize that you should never buy any computer utilizing an integrated graphics card if your purpose is playing high-end 3D games.

* Processor-Processing data and multitasking is very important for gaming computers because it plays a part in determining the speed of your computer. If you get a duo or quad core processor you’re splitting up the work done by your computer making it much more efficient. Processor speed is measured in Ghz and a 3.0Ghz duo core processor is probably the most value you can get for your money. While quad core processors are new and flashy, they aren’t fully utilized in gaming yet, though you may want to purchase one for the future.

* Hard Drive- Making sure that your computer has enough hard drive space is very important when you’re playing video games since many games now can cost you up to 10 gigabytes in hard drive space. This isn’t as important for in-game performance, but hard drives are still a important part of your computer that is required.

When buying your new gaming computer be sure to question your needs while trying to minimize your cost. If you consider the above parts carefully you can construct a very powerful computer that can last you for the years to come.

Photo Credits: Steve Crane

Originally posted 2009-12-03 03:23:07.

Speedy Computer

Virus and Spyware Scans

If your computer is not as fast as it used to be, you may want to consider getting it checked or scanned.  If you do not have the protection software to do so, you can buy programs such as McAfee to keep viruses and spam at bay.  But the software can not keep blocking spyware and viruses if you keep on allowing it to happen.  You should also be cautious about what is happening on your PC, such as junk emails, applications that have not been authorized, and unknown files.  For instance, if there is an email from somebody you do not know or looks strange, it is always better to simply delete the file or email right away in order to prevent a virus from infiltrating your PC and spreading.  Of course, the protective software you decide to purchase for cleaning up your computer should be a trustworthy and well-known brand that everyone uses with good results.

RAM Enhancement

Another simple way to increase your computer’s speed is to enhance your RAM.  For many dated computer models, there is a tendency for the screen to freeze up because they cannot handle too many activities at once.  If you increase the total memory on your computer by just a few gigabytes, you will soon see your PC’s performance will improve drastically.  Many computer technicians recommend to add about 2GB worth of memory in order to keep your computer functioning properly.

Closing Programs

Many people have fast computers, but are displeased with the fact that it takes a very long time for the operating systems to load before they are able to perform any functions.  When technicians checked computers with this problem, they found that users have been leaving several windows and programs open before logging off, making it much more difficult to get back on.  An easy tip to combat this would be to merely shut down a few windows before logging off.  If you do, you will discover your computer will increase its speed by a matter of minutes in the booting process.

Registry Scanners

When people run registry scans on their computer to look for problems, they sometimes find that the scanner itself is defective and because of its defect, the computer will not catch as many viruses as it can.  Many users with this issue mistakenly believe there is something else wrong with their computer, causing them to spend a great deal of time trying to find another possible answer to their problems.

Photo Credits: bsdfm

Originally posted 2010-04-20 03:26:38.