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Computer buying tips:
System Tips
If you are buying a new computer, make sure you get Windows
XP (why pay for an old operations system?) XP has the
stability of Windows 2000 and the "user friendly" interface
like Apple computers. If you wish to do high-end graphic
design and/or video editing you should stick with
Windows2000 for stability. The only problem with Windows
2000 is that there are often "compatibility problems" so
you will need to make sure that all your external hardware
and software (i.e scanner, CDRW) will work. You can have
the same type of compatibility problems upgrading to XP or
Windows 2000 as well so check first.
Case Tips
Buy a computer with a large case and less "integrated"
features like video and sound for better "upgradeability".
E-Machines in particular, use small cases that make it
difficult to add additional drives etc.
Monitor Tips
Buy a high quality 17" monitor. Wait on the LCD flat screen
models until the price drops more unless you "just have to
have one". Recommended Brands: KDS, Hansol, View Sonic.
Printer Tips
Printer prices have dropped tremendously in the last few
years but I would not recommend buying a low-end printer
(less then $70), because the construction of low-end models
is more prone to jamming and problems. I also would not
spend more then $250 on an inkjet printer, because the
quality after that point is higher than most people
require, unless you have specific photo quality printing
needs. I prefer HP printers because of the availability of
printing cartridges, durability and customer service. Lexus
printers are a bit too cheaply made for my requirements and
personally I don't prefer Epson printers either. Canon
makes some great printers but I would not buy the
lower-priced models. Also avoid buying an "All in one"
system I.e. fax, scanner, copier etc, because of the high
rate of problems and connectivity.
Memory Tips
Memory prices have never been lower so everyone should have
at least 128 MB of RAM because it improves performance so
much. I use 256 MB of RAM and that is the amount I would
recommend for all new computers unless you are a power user
and need 512 RAM. The new DR RAM is slightly faster and
necessary for some Pentium machines, however, most users
will not notice a performance improvement.
Sound Tips
Use better speakers than the ones provided with most new
PCs. Spend $29 to $49 on some new speaker for much better
sound. Most new computers come with built-in sound.
However, if you want to hear music in stereo quality, you
should get a separate sound card installed.
Desktops
Cheap Desktops, Media Desktops, Dell Desktops, Mac Desktops
Digital Camcorders
Sony Digital Camcorders, JVC Digital Camcorders, Cheap
Camcorders
Digital Cameras
Cheap Digital Cameras, Canon Digital Cameras, Nikon Digital
Cameras
Editors' Choice Products
Best Laptops, Best Digital Cameras,
Best Camcorders, Best Security Software
Graphics Cards
ATI Graphic Cards, 256 MB Graphic Cards,
Cheap Graphic Cards
HDTVs
Plasma HDTV, LCD HDTV, Rear Projection TV,
Sony HDTV
InkJet Printers
Cheap InkJet Printers, Epson InkJet Printers,
Canon InkJet Printers
Laptops & Notebooks
Cheap Laptops, Toshiba Laptops, Dell Laptops, Business
Laptops
Laser Printers
Cheap Laser Printers
LCDs
LCD TV, LCD Monitors, Cheap LCDs
MP3 Players
Cheap MP3 Players, Portable MP3 Players,
iRiver MP3 Players, Apple iPods
Multi-Function Printers
Laser MFPs, InkJet MFPs, HP MFPs, Canon MFPs
PDAs
Palm PDA, Pocket PC PDA
Scanners
Flatbed Scanners, Scanners under $500, Canon Scanners, HP
Scanners
Speakers
Klipsch Speakers, Altec Lansing Speakers,
2-Channel Speakers, Cheap Speakers
Storage Devices XML
CD Burners, Hard Drives, DVD Burners,
Flash Drives
Wireless Networking
Wireless Routers, Wireless Access Points, Netgear, Linksys
Routers
Small Business Center
Small Business Laptops, Small Business Desktops,
Smart Phones, Inkjet Printers, Wireless Networking,
Business Accounting Software
GearLog: Cool Gadget
Digital Cameras, Digital Video, Gadgets & Gizmos, MP3
Players, Desktops, Laptops, Wearable Tech, Cheap Geek
ExtremeTech
Top Deep Tech Stories, CPUs, Boards & Components, 3D
Graphics, Audio & HDTV,
Build It, OS, Software & Networking
TechnoRide
Car Technology, Car Video Systems, Car Audio,
Auto News, GPS Car Navigation, Car Reviews,
Hybrid Cars, Concept Cars, Car Advice, Auto Shows
Smart Device Central XML
Smartphones, Smartphone Software,
Smartphone Accessories, Smartphone Tips,
PDAs, PDA Software, PDA Tips, PDA Accessories
Game Systems
Nintendo Wii, Sony PS3, Microsoft Xbox 360,
Sony PSP, Nintendo DS Lite, Game System Reviews
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