Don Nitkin Computer Help for Seniors and Other Newbies

Computer prices have dropped a lot
The computing power you get for your money is going up
I don't recommend used computers for anyone, because of the rate of change of computer technology will make most systems nearly obsolete within three years
Used computers often come "pre-loaded" with viruses, spyware and damaged system files

Windows or Mac?

The choice of operating system really doesn't matter. From a beginner's perspective, each has point and click interfaces that are pretty easy to use. Both will take you to the same Internet, and enable you to send and receive email. Bother offer word processing, and the documents they create are interchangeable. Windows-based computers are cheaper.

A good entry-level Windows based computer with monitor can be purchased for under $400, and sometimes you even get a printer in the deal. A Mac Mini goes for about $600, but that price doesn't include a monitor, mouse or keyboard, so figure around $750 total.

Horsepower

The CPU (central processing unit or "processor' for short) is the brain of your computer. In general, the faster the better. Processors speeds are measured in gigahertz (GHz). Entry-level machines start at 1.5 to 2.0 GHz and are more than adequate for web surfing, and word processing. If you see a computer with a processor speed specified in megahertz (MHz), stay clear -- these are older models.

You could probably get by with Intel's Celeron, or AMD's Sempron. Both are budget microprocessors. But you can't be sure of what the future will bring. So go with an Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon X2.

Memory

How much RAM (random access) memory do you need ? Don't confuse RAM with hard drive (file storage) space. RAM is the temporary working memory that your computer uses to perform calculations and manipulate files. When you open a document, it is copied from the hard drive into RAM. As you and your word processor work on the file, the modified copy exists only in RAM. When you save the file, it is copied from RAM back to the hard drive, or permanent storage. And as with CPU power, the more RAM you have, the better your computer will perform. Have a minimum 256 megabytes (MB) of RAM, but with 512 MB or 1024MB (one gigabyte) you'll notice better performance.

Larger Monitor

Here is the formula: Larger monitor = less eyestrain and less scrolling. I recommend a 17-inch monitor or even a 19-inch if you don't mind spending a bit more. Don't worry about brand names here; they're pretty much the same. Stay away from 14 or 15-inch monitors. They are just too small to be practical.

Software

Most of the software you need will come pre-installed on your new PC. Windows comes with Internet Explorer (for web browsing) and Outlook Express (for email). Many PC systems include a word processor such as Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, or OpenOffice. Likewise Mac systems come with the Safari web browser and Apple Mail for email. If your computer doesn't come with a word processor, you can get Microsoft Works for Windows or iWork for Mac, both of which, will give you a capable word processor and other useful programs

Anti-virus and Spyware Protection

Windows users, look for a computer that comes with anti-virus software pre-installed. If yours doesn't come with any anti-virus package, check with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to see if they offer anything for free. Look for FREE anti-virus, anti-spam, and other security tools on my Computer Security page.

Recommendations

Look for a PC with Windows XP, Windows Vista, or a Mac Mini
Processor: 1.5 GHz or better
RAM memory: 256 MB or better
Hard drive: 80 GB or better
Monitor: 17-inch or larger
Software: Works (Windows) or iWork (Mac)

Look at your local computer store first, they may have some good deals and offer local support. Office supply and electronic stores such as Staples, Office Depot, and Best Buy are good options to explore too. If you are comfortable buying online, check out Dell, Gateway, and Apple. Recently Dell installed kiosks in many malls. They have demo models there and take orders for shipment.

Service and Reliability

22nd Annual Shoppers' Choice Awards

The 100 Best Products of 2008

Surge Suppressors

The main job of a surge protector is to protect your computer from "surges." A power surge, or transient voltage, is an increase in voltage significantly above the designated level in a flow of electricity. Learn more about the danger - click on picture.

Hard Drive Failure

You may not know when your drive is about to fail. They have a limited life. However, you may be able to get advance notice with this free program.

HDD Health is a full-featured prediction agent for machines using Windows 95, 98, NT, Me, 2000, and XP. It monitors hard disks and alerts you to impending failure. Click on the logo below (see bottom of the page)..

The True Cost of printer Ink

Focus on the cost per page, not the cost per cartridge.
The current standard covers documents only. A separate standard for photos is being created.
What matters is the total cost of printing, which includes the price of the printer plus the cost for all the pages you will print over its lifetime.

LINKS TO INFORMATION ON WHAT AND WHERE TO BUY

Do I Need a New Computer?

Buying a Computer

How to Buy the Best New CPU

Step-by Step: Buying a Computer: The Best Source

Buying Guide: Desktops and Laptops

Rating the Retailers

How to Buy a Desktop PC

Recommendations For a New Computer

Buying a Laptop

Mac vs. PC: Which is Better?

What is Better: a Mac or PC?

Mac vs. PC: Offensive Advertising

Which Printer Shall I Buy?

Bargain Hunt: All-In-One Printers

Buying a Photo Printer

The latest crop of photo printers brings that convenience to your living room

Guide to Buying a Ridiculously Cheap PC

The On-line Library of Digital Photography

Trusted Online Shopping for Computers and Electronics

BUYING A BUDGET PC

Windows XP is a good operating system. A computer running XP probably won't be obsolete for quite a while. You can get a usable machine for less than $500. Get at least 256 megabytes of RAM and a CD burner.

For a little more, you can get a computer marked Vista Capable. This means it will run Vista, when it comes out. For that, you need 512MB of RAM.

The next step up is Vista Premium Ready. For that, you definitely need 1GB of RAM. You also need a minimum 128MB of RAM on your video system.

In either case, look for a Vista upgrade coupon. Some manufacturers offer discounted upgrades. Others will provide free ones. Consider this when looking at the machines' cost.

You'll want to get a decent-sized hard drive - about 100 gigabytes. Hard drives are fairly inexpensive; you can always add additional storage later.

Choosing a processor will be the most difficult part. Processors are generally the most expensive part of the computer. And right now, a lot is changing when it comes to processors.

Increasingly common are 64-bit chips. Windows XP and current software can't take full advantage of these processors. But Vista and future software will. So, if you will keep the computer a while opt for one of these chips. But, you'll have to weigh the cost against your budget. If you buy a 64-bit chip, don't go for the very best. Tell the salesperson you want to go down a few steps.

A budget machine will probably use an inexpensive chip. Intel's Celeron and AMD's Sempron are often found in these machines. They're less powerful, but they work.

You probably can get a machine for less than $1,000 that will run Vista well. But if money is tight, look for a decent XP machine. That operating system is solid, and should be viable for several years. You can upgrade later if you want to add Vista.

Vista

Vista is the new shiny operating system Microsoft released to replace Windows XP. Except it hasn't, because it's a poor upgrade. It's slower, bigger, and buggier. Many people would rather get a new computer with the old XP operating system.

Why it happened: Microsoft's need to support a vast universe of third-party hardware and software products and flaws in Microsoft's marketing and software development strategy.

OTHER ELECTRONICS

New sites that help you research electronics and video games, a few gift ideas

How to Buy a Flat-Screen TV - Watch this PC World Video

10 Things to Do When You're Ready to Buy an HDTV

The ABCs of 1080p HDTVs

Top Three Digital Cameras for the Casual Photographer

Recycle Your Old Computer - click on the image below