The Internet on a Budget - Part 2

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Getting a Computer for the Internet:

Most new computers today come with the tools you need to connect to the
Internet already installed. If you don't have a computer yet, or have an
older model, the system requirements will vary depending upon the computer
platform (DOS, Windows 3.1, etc.):

DOS

* CPU:
* RAM:
* VIDEO:

Windows 3.1

* CPU: 386DX or better (386SX computers need not apply.)
* RAM: at least 6MB (4MB won't cut it here.)
* VIDEO: SVGA with 16 colors minimum (256 colors preferred.)

There are many ways to buy a computer today. If you're on a budget here
are some of the best:

* Local Dealer

This is your best bet if you are a newcomer and you can find a dealer who
actually will take the time to talk with you about your needs. Ask the
dealer if he has any trade-in's or used computers that fit you
specifications. Ask also if he offers a money-back-if-not-satisfied
guarantee and has classes in the areas of computing you are interested in.
You should be able to get a used 486 with monitor for under $500 and a new
Pentium for about $800 (less monitor.) Try to stay away from the big
discount stores with household appliances and electronics all under one
roof. You'll seldom find knowledgeable salespeople and they have an
interest in selling you "what's in stock."

* Mail-Order

There are two vendors that have consistently rated at, or near the top,
both with Consumer's Reports and the computer magazines -- Dell Computer
and Micron Electronics . They will custom-configure a system for you and
offer optional on-site service and extended warranties along with a
money-back policy and leasing options. You'll pay a little more here
($1200-1500) but you'll get a good product and reliable technical support.
They also have "factory stores" that offer reconditioned or discontinued
models at a good discount.

* Dell Computer, 800-283-1480, URL:http://www.dell.com/buydell/
* Micron Electrronics, 800-486-2062, URL:http://www.micronpc.com

* Computer Show

This is a choice if you have a knowledgeable friend, or know enough about
computers yourself, to allow you to make intelligent choices about the
items offered. You'll need to make a list of exactly what you want before
hand. You usually wont get a return policy if you make a mistake and
purchase the wrong item. You can usually exchange defective items as long
as you can either get to the dealer's store or the next computer show he
attends.

* Classified Ad

This is generally the worst way to buy a computer as most items for sale
this way are not going to have any return policy and you won't know if
there's a defect until you've had it a while. Most sellers have an
inflated idea of the worth of their computers and price them way too high.
You shouldn't pay over $350 for a 486 (add $100 for a working SVGA monitor
and nothing for a plain VGA one) and be wary of any 386 computers from
Packard Bell, IBM, Aptiva, Gateway 2000, Compaq, NEC, AST, and some other
manufacturers as they are often proprietary and not easily upgradeable.
All "slim-line" desktop systems also contain proprietary motherboards so
stay away from these too unless you never plan on upgrading.

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Prepared by Peter Conrad Cumminsky, consultant, ASEE, CET, Team OS/2
(707) 987-9484
Visit my Computer Taming web site at
URL:http://www.angelfire.com/biz/taming/


(C) Copyright 1993-1998 [email protected]

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