Buying a new computer for your business or home can be a daunting process. With all of the different options available, how do you make sure you don’t end up with too much or too little of a computer for your needs?

We want to provide you with some tips on what to ask yourself before looking for a new computer. This will be the first of several newsletters focused on this topic and will focus on the basics. Our upcoming topics in this series will include what to look for if you are a graphic designer, have engineers doing drafting work, etc..

Where will you use your computer?
This seems like a silly question but one of the first decisions you will need to make is whether to purchase a laptop or a desktop. Laptops are generally priced higher than desktops with the same specifications but offer flexibility for someone who is on the go. You will want to consider how you will use your computer before making this decision. Do you travel for work or pleasure but need your computer with you? Do you visit client offices to make presentations? Are you a student who wants to be able to utilize a computer at the library while doing research? If you do not intend for the computer to leave your office or home then a desktop computer will be the most bang for your buck.

What is your budget?
Do you have a budget in mind for your computer purchase? This is important to consider because it will help you weed out unnecessary “add-ons” to your computer and stick to what is essential to your computer needs. Don’t forget to budget for your software and external hardware needs as well. Consider whether or not you need Microsoft Office and other software, Dual Monitors, an external hard drive or wireless mouse and keyboard.

What will you be connecting to your computer?
Do you have a camera, printer or external hard drive you will need to connect to the computer? You should check any external devices you have to connect to the computer and what kind of connectors they have to ensure you will be able to continue to use them easily on your new computer.

How will you use your computer?
It is important to consider how you will be using your new computer. Will you be mainly using it to surf the Internet? Is it primarily for business use creating documents in Word, Excel and PowerPoint? Do you use graphic design or video editing software on your computer? Determining how you will use your new computer will help you determine the amount of memory that is necessary for optimal performance.

What will you store?
Do you have large files you need to store or archives of photos that are important to you? It is important to know about how much space you will need on your computer to store your documents, videos and photos. If you do a lot of work with high-resolution photography or videography, you will need more hard drive space than the average person just using their computer to surf the web. Take a look at your current computer and see how much hard drive space you are using now. Then take a moment to think about what you want to do with your new computer and if that will involve large files.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of what to consider when purchasing a new computer, but it is a good starting point. Do you have more questions? Contact one of the PC Tech specialists at 636-464-2400 and they will help walk you through finding the right computer for your needs.

Keep your eye out for our next newsletter to learn more about what to look for if you are doing graphic design or desktop publishing with programs like those provided in the Adobe Creative Suite.

IN THIS ISSUE

• Buying the Right PC