How to buy a computer - a technophobes guide
In my day schoolwork was done in a book with a pencil and a lot of rubbing out (although
my children probably think I did my homework on a slate by lantern light!).
In the space of one generation technology has changed dramatically. Our kids now expect
to be able to Google everything and so much information is available at just a few clicks of a mouse.
But if you're finding that you're getting less and less time on your own computer it may be time
to take the plunge and buy a computer for the whole family to use.
One look in your local electronics shop will instantly leave you bewildered by the variety of computers on offer. Whilst they all seem to look the same, the price tags vary widely. But look closer and you'll soon discover that you get what you pay for. The latest and greatest (which in computer terms means the fastest) will always cost more than a computer with an old operating system - a bit like cars really.
The most important things to look for are:
- Processor - around 2.0GHz should work well for most families' needs
- RAM - at least 1GB but preferably 2GB for running more than one program at a time
- Memory - think about what you will be storing (photos, videos, music, games?) - 120GB is probably the desired minimum
- If you're wanting wireless internet ensure that WiFi is built in or you'll have to buy a separate gadget.
- Video card - if your kids love computer games then this is the one you need to pay close attention to. To enable games to run smoothly your graphics card needs to have around 512MB dedicated RAM (preferably with 3D acceleration)
- CD/DVD drive - what you need will depend on what you want to use it for - games from CD Roms, playing DVDs or making audio CDs, etc.
Laptop or desktop?
Laptops are fantastic if you need internet and email on the go or if the kids want to play games, um I mean, do their homework, anywhere in the house (if you have WiFi). They take up little space and are very versatile. But on the downside they do not like being dropped and the specifications will be less than a desktop PC for the same price. If you are happy to have all your computing needs in one central place (especially important for supervision) then go for a desktop. It will take up more space but the bigger screen option may be worthwhile.
For the monitor, most new computers come with a 19" to 20" screen as standard but remember to think about how much desk space you have.
Printers come relatively cheap but you'll soon discover that printer ink is the most expensive liquid in the world! Look at the price of the ink cartridges before making a final decision and remind the kids to only print if their life depends on it. A multifunction printer/scanner/photocopier is great for school projects.
Speakers are not always included and if you'll be doing video calls to Great Aunt Edna in England also consider a webcam and microphone.
Don't forget virus protection for your computer. You can purchase this separately or some ISPs offer this at a discounted rate. Ensure that whichever you opt for that you keep the software updated to stop any potential nasties getting in. And don't turn off all the protection controls - they're there to help you.
You may want to purchase word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software (ie Microsoft Office) but if you're even just a little IT savvy you can download compatible programs from OpenOffice.org for free.
Computer technology is progressing all the time and so it's quite easy to get a cheap computer that someone considers to be out of date but that would probably do quite nicely as a family computer. Old work computers or second hand buys off online auction sites are usually cheap but remember that you will likely have no guarantee. Some stores sell refurbished computers.
Where to Put Your Computer
Consider if you need to keep one eye on the teenager with a penchant for chat rooms - perhaps having the computer in view of the kitchen or lounge is necessary. But with the right parental controls the computer could be better located in a bedroom or other room away from the hustle and bustle of family life to allow for peace and quiet during study (and so you don't have to listen to it when you're trying to watch Grey's Anatomy!)