Desktop

A Desktop Computer Guide For The Novice

Have you owned a few computers in your life, but are in the position to buy a new one and just do not know how to approach it? Many face the same problem due to the constant changes in technology. The process can actually be quite simple. Great tips are contained herein on purchasing a desktop.

Be sure that you have installed anti virus protection on your computer. These programs protect your system from malicious attacks. That software can take personal information and cause your machine to run slow. Many programs on the market will run a scan and repair on a schedule if you set it to do as such.

If you desktop is slow you can do a boot check to get more speed. Look in the start menu for a program named “ms config.” You can see which programs start when booting the computer. If there are programs listed that you don’t use, set them so they don’t automatically start. That helps the machine run more quickly.

Find people who are getting rid of their desktop computers. Many people today are going for tablets and laptops, and because of this you can find a good desktop computer at a very nice price. They’re great machines and perfect for you to snap up.

Consider add-ons that come attached to your computer purchase. There are many accessories that you can purchase for your new computer. Only purchase that which is necessary. Make sure to note that lots of accessories and components can be found more cheaply online. Normally, add-ons purchased from computer manufacturers cost more.

When you’re shopping for a new desktop computer, find out whether there are any add-ons available. It’s not uncommon for there to be some great accessories that you can purchase separately that will help make computing easier. Be certain you only purchase those that are necessary for you. Also, be aware that some add-ons will be cheaper at other sites. Those from the manufacturer are sold at higher prices.

Certain Motherboards

Carefully measure where you will be putting your desktop. Desktop computers come in many sizes depending on what brand or model they are. Some will be compact, and others will require more space. Be aware of what you’ll be able to fit.

If assembling a desktop computer yourself, take care in selecting your components. Certain processors will only work with certain motherboards. Certain RAM units are only compatible with certain motherboards. Make sure you products will work together. This way, you will avoid many headaches and heartaches down the line.

Make sure you get some kind of a warranty on your computer when you buy it. This covers you in case anything goes wrong. If the warranty is still good, you should be able to return it to the store to get it fixed, or get one with the same model number.

Dust out the inside of your computer weekly so that you keep the system functioning at its best. The external casing is usually easily removed, and then you can simply spray the dust away using a compressed air dispenser or other product made especially for this purpose. Doing so keeps your computer insides clean and lets the cooling system keep the hardware at good temperatures.

If you are a gamer and wish to buy a desktop for that purpose, you must remember a few concepts. Your computer should have a display that is compatible with high resolutions, a minimum for 4 gigabytes of memory, plus a strong video card. You will also need special controllers and keyboards to boost the experience.

If you are considering a Mac instead of a Windows desktop, but have Windows programs you like to run, think about getting Parallels for Mac. This will let you run a PC OS on your Mac. You will be able to run whatever PC program you need to. You will, however, have to separately purchase the needed PC operating system that goes with it.

Invest in a DVD optical drive that is writable if you are going to be transferring large video files. A CD writer cannot hold as many files as a DVD writer. You may need the space a DVD drive can provide. Determine whether you need or want the extra space that a DVD optical drive provides over standard CD drives in order to assess whether it makes sense for you to incur the extra cost in purchasing a desktop computer with this feature.

Gamers need to buy specific rigs. Make sure the computer has a video card that’s good, a memory of a minimum of 4 GB, and a resolution display that’s high. There are also gaming specific controllers and keyboards that can help your game.

As you shop for your next desktop system, make certain that any software coming with it is fully legal. You always should have the key and CD to be sure you won’t end up in legal hot water or aren’t allowed to get later software updates.

Know where to find manuals for your new computer, especially if they are online. This means you should take a look at any information online about your computer, and make sure that what you read is helpful enough for your needs.

Does the computer you are considering have sufficient memory for your needs? This is a vital aspect of a new computer. Do you plan on storing a lot of data on your computer? Do you take a lot of pictures? Figure out the answer before you buy a computer.

If you want to be able to transfer large video files, you’ll want to invest in a desktop with a writable DVD optical drive. A CD drive might not suffice for your larger multimedia files. You will require space that you can get from a DVD. It will cost more, but it will be worth it in the end.

Custom desktop computers are often less costly than their laptop counterparts. You can get a great computer for under 500 dollars. You should research the store to make sure they stand behind their products.

Many changes have occurred in the computer world, and now it is possible to get a desktop off-the-shelf for less money than a laptop. It’s possible to buy a desktop computer that’s very serviceable for around $400.00 at any computer store. Buy it from a trusted store to ensure that full support is offered.

Never be fooled by price reductions. Many folks who need a new computer start to monitor the deals. But they wait and wait because they assume they can get a much better discount with time. Typically, the difference between great deals will be very slim, so as soon as you find a good one for you, go for it.

Be very careful about buying a computer that is a low price. Usually, the money you put into it, counts! Stay with reputable makers, merchants and online sellers. If a deal seems too good, it probably is. Independent sellers have great looking deals, but the computers often have serious problems.

Think about peripheral items when computer shopping. You need a monitor as well as a keyboard and mouse. A printer will be a necessity, too, as will a modem. Are there additional components you may need?

Price Tag

If you’re buying your computer used, there will be no warranty from the manufacturer. There aren’t many manufacturers that offer to transfer their warranty. If you determine that you want a used machine, know that warranty coverage will be voided.

To be certain that you’re really saving money on any particular desktop computer, you need to take the time to check out reviews about it. It may be tempting to walk into a store and grab the first one that has a price tag you like, but that can be a big mistake. Too often a computer with a really low price tag will give you a lot of problems in the future.

People used to buy computers with all the peripherals in a bundle. Avoid doing this. Monitors for computers are harder to find, since you can use your flat-screen television these days. In addition, keep in mind that you can still use your existing keyboard and mouse.

Be aware of the two common hard drive types when you are making choices for a new computer. It begins with the familiar hard drive, which is HDD, and then the newest version, which is SSD. The SSD, while operating at more revolutions per minute, is more expensive and usually holds less data.

When you use your computer, get an ergonomic keyboard. If you type a lot or spend a lot of time on the computer, a keyboard which is designed to be easy on your hands will help. The design of keyboards such as these cause minimal stress to your arms, wrists and hands.

When you buy used, you may not get a warranty. This means that any problems that crop up are left to you to resolve. You need to decide whether that makes financial sense to you.

You can select from several different hard drive options. HDD drives are the standard for most folks, while the SDD represents a new version. The SSD operates using more revolutions a minute, but does not hold as much data and is more expensive.

While many desktops have Wi-Fi that’s built in, be sure it has the most up-to-date standards. If your WiFi only lets you use B or G levels, then you won’t get fast N speeds. It will make a difference with downloading and surfing online.

If you get a used machine, know that manufacturers will not permit a warranty transfer. If something goes wrong, the cost will be yours to bear. See if this looks like a good idea before buying it.

Operating System

Before you make any decision, know exactly what you need the computer to do for you. Develop a list of the things you do with computers now and what you might do in the coming months and years. Write everything down to the list is comprehensive.

Have you taken some time to think about the desktop computer operating system you need? There are differences between each system. If you’re used to Windows 7, you may not like the Windows 8 operating system, for example. Look for a computer that gives you the specs you want as well as the operating system of your choice.

You can count on most desktops sold today to include WiFi built in, but make sure it is up to date before you buy. The fastest speeds are with N and you will be stuck with lower speeds if the the WiFi is only G or b. It will make a difference with downloading and surfing online.

There really isn’t anything to be scared of when buying a new desktop computer. If you know the basics, you will be able to determine what you need. This information, as well as some expert advice, helps you to get the right computer.

If speed is important, a desktop may be your best bet. They will have more storage and speed capabilities. Another bonus is the fact that they are generally cheaper than either of the other options as well. You might want to consider a desktop for your next purchase.

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