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One of the most frequently asked questions we get is, "How do I know if I need a new PC?" The answer is pretty simple. First, if you try to install a new program and a message pops up telling you that you don’t have enough memory, disk space, processor power, courage, stamina, vim, vigor... whatever... to run that program, then a new machine may be in your near future. However, being plagued with viruses, pop-up ads or just running slower than it used to are not good reasons to replace your computer. These problems (which you’ll probably end up with on your new machine anyway) can often be solved with just a phone call (to us of course!).

Second, having anything less than the latest version of Windows is also not a good reason to dump your current PC. If your computer runs well and doesn’t crash (much), then you may be better off staying with the operating system you have. Windows XP certainly has it’s share of problems and a computer that runs smoothly, regardless of the OS, is a gem that may be worth holding on to.

Third, ask yourself if the computer does everything you want it to do. If so, then why replace it? If not, then perhaps a good cleanup and/or a minor upgrade will re-energize it. Again, give us a call and we’ll be glad to advise you (at no charge).

Of course, if you’ve been struck with new computer fever, there has never been a better time to have it. Prices are down and, even at the low end, you get a lot of bang for your buck. New desktop machines from reputable companies like Dell start at $500-600 (a few hundred more for laptops) even less if your monitor is in good condition (advertised prices actually start at about $399, but figure on tax, shipping and an upgrade or two from their standard package -- see below). With that in mind, here are some points to look for in a new PC. We'll try to keep the geek-speak to a minimum.

A new Windows-based computer should have:

· Windows! OK, you probably knew that. But most new computers come with Windows XP Home Edition and some companies will try to get you to upgrade to XP Professional. There are very few situations in which we recommend doing so. Even if it’s for business use, most people can comfortably stick with the Home version. And you can use the money you’ll save to take your honey out for a night on the town (be sure to mention where you got the idea).

· Memory (RAM): At least 256 MB. 512 if you can afford it.

· Storage: For normal use, you'll need a hard disk drive with a capacity of 30-40 GB. If you plan to download music and/or videos, get at least 80GB. Hard disks specs should indicate a spin rate of 7200 RPM, but some companies still use slower (5400 RPM) drives in their low-end machines so, if it doesn't say, ask. Hard disk speed affects the entire operation of the computer and for a few extra dollars, the faster drive is more than worth it.

· Monitor: Despite ongoing improvements in technology, CRT (standard) monitors still offer a sharper, clearer picture than flat-panel displays. They also handle full-motion video (as in games and movies) much better. And if that’s not enough, they’re also cheaper than ever. The best reason to buy a flat panel is not that they look cool (although...), the best reason is space. If your work area is cramped, those thin panels can make a big difference. But if space is not a factor, you can save hundreds of dollars by going with a good quality 17" or even a 19" CRT monitor. (Re the "honey" suggestion above -- your night out just became a whole weekend!)

· Graphics: Video adapters need memory in order to put images up on your screen. Some of them borrow memory from the computer while others have their own. If you do mostly word processing and Internet applications, "shared memory" is fine. For high-end gaming or for watching or editing videos, the card should have it’s own onboard memory -- as much of it as you can afford (at least 128MB).

· Disk Drives: A CD writer (CD-RW) is a very useful add-on for backing up important files or for making music disks to play in the car or elsewhere (it's not as easy as a 10-year-old will make it look, but you can learn how). Unless you plan to make copies of CDs, you can save a buck or two by not getting a plain CD drive, since the CD writer can double as a CD reader.

A DVD player is required for some high-end games and for watching movies, but is otherwise unnecessary. The major computer companies must have bought huge quantities of these devices because they seem to really want you to have one -- whether you need it or not.

· Sound:  Don’t spend money on an upgraded sound card unless you’re a professional musician or a sound engineer. The only difference you’ll notice between the basic model and the more expensive one is that... well... it's more expensive. However, an upgraded speaker set that includes a sub-woofer can be a very nice addition. You won’t believe how much sound quality will improve your computing experience until you hear it for yourself. If you plan to play music on your computer, from either the Web or from CDs, it's a must-have.

· Surge suppressor: If you don’t already have a good one, get one (you may find a better deal at a local store than you will from the PC manufacturer). It should be rated at a minimum of 1000 joules and should have wide-spaced outlets to support transformers (those small boxes at the end of some power cords). Expect to spend $20-40 and consider it cheap insurance. We’ve seen electrical spikes burn out computer power supplies, trash hard drives (and all of the data contained on them) and turn motherboards into toast. If you’re not sure whether your current surge suppressor is adequate (you can’t tell to look at them), consider moving it to the television or stereo and buy a good one for your PC. Those other electronic devices are not as sensitive to power disturbances as your computer is, but they're still at risk and should be protected.

BTW Every surge suppressor has a reset button of some type. If yours doesn't, then it’s probably just a power strip -- a glorified extension cord -- which offers no surge protection whatsoever.

· Networking:  If you’re interested in connecting computers together -- by cable or wireless -- so you can share files, printers or an Internet connection, we suggest that you pass up the network hardware offered by most PC manufacturers. In many cases, better quality devices can be purchased locally for less money. Call or e-mail us if you’d like more information about that.

Once again, a phone consultation is free, so give us a call if you’re wondering whether to clean up your old PC or dump it and go for a new one. As always, we’ll be happy to help.

Happy computing!

Oh, one more thing We do offer a Complete New PC Setup Service. From out-of-the-box to up-and-running, quick and easy. We can even transfer your data files from the old machine to the new. Give us a call!

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