Shop 5, 486 The Esplanade, Torquay
Hervey Bay QLD 4655

Phone: (07) 4125 5077 Fax: (07) 4125 2824

E-mail: sales@masterlinkcomputers.com.au

Thinking of Buying a New Computer !

Buying a new computer is no small task. The products, software and services on offer are constantly changing. So regardless of whether you’re a computer geek or a novice. It’s a good idea to pause for a moment, and do a little planning and research.

The Big Picture

Most people buy a PC to browse the Web, to check and send e-mail, and to juggle the occasional Word document or spreadsheet. Today, even the least-expensive, computers can handle these tasks with ease. However, you need to think about the bigger picture. For example is “cheap” going to get you a quality product. What warranty comes with the pc and if something does go wrong, who will fix it.

Ok, it may not seem that important when buying a computer, but after sales service should be considered as an absolute necessity. Many larger retailers do not service or repair computers, so if something goes wrong during the warranty period, your computer will be sent to a third party. In many cases this means couriering the pc to Brisbane or even further afield. Generally larger computer retailers do not "backup" your information. So if your computer is sent away for repair and the hard drive is replaced or reloaded, you will loose everything, including your precious photos. We would recommend dealing with a retailer who either repairs computers under warranty themselves, or can guarantee it will be dealt with locally. You need to be able to deal with the repairer personally, assure yourself that your computer and it’s precious information is in good hands and get the fault rectified as quickly as possible. Some retailers will even go the extra distance and loan monitors etc. While yours is being repaired.

Hopefully the above information has given you something to think about and will arm you with a few relevant questions when hunting for your new computer. There are a few "golden rules" to keep in mind when hunting.

1. Don't get confused. If the salesman can't explain what you want to know in simple, down to earth language... then walk... it's that simple !
2. Don't let a saleman pressure you into a decision. If he's worth his salt, then he should be advising you to think over the information provided and compare with other retailers.
3. Ask everyone and anyone for advice and their opinions.·And then go with your "gut feeling".
4. Don't buy on price alone.·If you buy cheap, you get cheap. But that's not to say·you can't negotiate and try to·hunt out a genuine bargain.
5. Always buy from a "store".·If you buy online, from a "private supplier" or·"second hand", then any problems you may have·in the future are just that. Your Problem!

It’s always a good idea to ask for advice if you have any doubts about your purchase. And believe me, there are plenty of professionals, experienced users and self proclaimed experts out there ready to influence your decision. So before you start, arm yourself with a few facts and well thought out questions. A little planning and research can mean the difference between buying a lemon or a quality product that will meet your needs for years to come.

Planning Ahead

We suggest you grab yourself a pen and answer the following basic questions.

·

What type of computer do·I want ?

For example. Do you think you’d like a laptop, or a desktop pc. There are pros and cons for both.

LAPTOPS

PROS

• Laptops are portable and convenient
• Minimal cables and clutter

CONS

• For equivalent specs, laptops are generally more expensive.
• Laptops can be more easily stolen, or damaged.
• What you buy, is what you get! That is, the hard drive and ram are the only parts easily upgradable.

DESKTOPS

PROS

• Easily upgradable
• Facilitate better posture
• Allow for larger monitors including 3D and fixed peripherals
• Cost Effective

CONS

• A lot of cables
• Use more space

·

What is·my budget ?

• Do you need finance ? Not all stores offer finance and there is a large number of plans available from those who do. Layby is certainly the best method of purchase, however if venturing into the world of hire purchase then please be wary of high finance charges, penalties and booking fees. Also be aware that many well known finance companies offer a kick-back to the salesman (not to mention commission on sales) if he can sign you up. So make sure you’re getting quality, unbiased advice.

• Also, if this isn’t your first computer purchase, then you may only require the tower if buying a desktop pc or even an upgrade which could be a fraction of the cost.·····

··

What will·I use the computer for ?

It’s important to know what you will use the computer for.· This is extremely important, as the answer to these questions will determine·the minimum basics your computer must have.

• A low end processor will surf the net, allow you to use Microsoft Word, play solitare and send emails amongst other things. But it may not allow you to play some games, edit video or work with GIS and other applications etc. Which can be devastating for a student or professional.

• The size of your hard drive. You will need a larger hard drive if you intend keeping a large quantity of videos, pictures or other documents. As an important footnote, you may also want to think about backup. If you’re going to keep important information, then you need a backup copy on a seperate drive. There are a number of options here which I wont go into now. But please make sure you ask when discussing your purchase.

• What sockets, devices and features do I need ? Think about how many devices you will want to connect to your computer, such as printers, backup drives, cameras etc. You need to make sure you have enough sockets for all these devices and that they are of the right type. Some devices use firewire or e-sata, while many use usb. Also if you use a digital camera, then a card reader might be a nice feature. To some people high quality audio is very important for their music and to others a large LED monitor may be the most important feature for watching movies. Everyone’s different, so decide on what’s important to you!

However, supplementary to your legal rights, it's important to be aware of what "After Sales Service" is provided from the seller. For example, Most of the large well known department stores do not·come to your home and set the equipment up. If there's a problem it is usually referred to a "third party", such as a·repairer, and as most sales people these days are paid on commission. Calling the store for assistance will usually be dealt with in the most expedient manner possible... for them !

So with all this in mind, it comes back to our statements in the initial paragraph of this article. Do your homework, seek advice and hunt out the "right product" for the "right price" with a reputable firm, prepared to look after you.

Happy Computing....

After Sales Service?

As a consumer you have a number of rights which can be clearly explained, along with definitions on the Queensland Fair Trading Website. This website also highlights the risks of buying from auctions, on-line and privately. It's well worth the time to review this information.