1. Chapter 18 Buying a PC

2. Getting Started FAQs: − So many options—where do I begin? − Where can I find prices and specifications? − How much computing power do I need? − Where can I find the best deal? − Is it okay to mail order a PC? 2Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

3. So many options – where do I begin? A good deal on a computer means you pay a reasonable price to a reliable merchant for a dependable computer Successful buyers follow these strategies: – Choose a platform – Decide whether you want a notebook, netbook, or desktop computer – Browse magazines, catalogs, and Web sites to get an idea of current pricing and features – Make your final selection by comparing prices, features, technical support and warranty 3Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

4. So many options – where do I begin? A computer platform is a category of computers – PC platform includes computers that run Microsoft Windows – Mac platform are Macintosh computers Intel Macs Decide among a desktop, notebook, or netbook computer – Notebooks and netbooks are portable – Notebooks are heavier, but more powerful than netbooks – Desktop computers are more expandable because you can swap out components inside the case 4Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

5. Where can I find prices and specifications? Research prices and specifications to get a handle on the current market in three ranges: under $500, $500-$1000, and over $1000 Make sure to look at – Microprocessor manufacturer and model – Microprocessor speed – RAM capacity – Hard disk capacity and speed – Display screen size – Amount of video memory Create a price-range table Find info in ads, computer magazines, and online 5Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

6. Where can I find prices and specifications? 6Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

7. How much computing power do I need? PC priced higher than $1,000 is the equivalent of a luxury automobile – State-of-the-art components – Generous amount of RAM and disk storage space PC $500-$1,000 is the equivalent of a “four-door sedan” – Most popular and provides ample computing power PC under $500 is like a compact car – Technology is a few years old – Reduced processor speed and memory capacity Used computer is also an option 7Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

8. Where can I find the best deal? Conventional stores – Computer superstores allow you to see the PCs first hand and also have trained sales people – Office and mass-market stores may provide a smaller selection at a higher price and the sales staff may have little computer background Manufacturer direct sales – You can place your order over the phone or on a Web site with manufacturer and customize features – Often cannot try before you buy – Technical support has become sophisticated 8Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

9. Is it OK to mail order a PC? Mail order is one of the most popular ways of buying a computer On the phone, a salesperson can answer your questions On the Web, you typically follow prompts on the screen, enter shipping information, provide a credit card payment, and receive an e-mail confirmation Make arrangements for someone to be home to receive shipment, or you can pick up the computer at the courier’s office Keep your purchase receipt handy for warranty coverage. You may also purchase extended warranties 9Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

10. Hardware: Green gear The goal of green computing is to design, manufacture, use, and dispose of electronic devices in a way that has minimal impact on the environment – Green design and manufacturing – Green use – Green disposal EPEAT is a program that rates electronics manufacturors on 51 environmental criteria – www.epeat.net/Search.aspx www.epeat.net/Search.aspx 10Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

11. Hardware: Green gear Energy use varies on what the computer is doing – Consumes less power when fewer programs are running – Phantom power is used to illuminate various LED lights and allow a device to be turned on by remote control 11Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

12. Hardware: Green gear When shopping for household appliances and electronic gear, look for the ENERGY STAR logo You can verify energy efficiency using a watt meter or home energy monitor 12Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

13. Hardware: Green gear Much of the gear used for computing can be recycled – Use rechargeable batteries whenever possible – Consider refilling your printer ink Reuse and recycle old computers – Donate to a school or charitable organization – Take to a recycling center – Make sure data cannot be recovered – Check license agreements before leaving software on hard disks 13Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18

14. Who pays for e-waste? What do you think? – Have you ever thrown an unwanted electronic device into the garbage? – Are you aware of recycling options in your local area? – Would you be willing to pay a $10 recycling fee for any electronic product you purchase? – Do you think that national recycling laws are needed? 14Practical PC 6th Edition Chapter 18