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What do I want from a desktop computer?

Be mindful to consider this for a minute. Everyone wants to check their mail, surf the web, do a little word processing and excel and perhaps manage their personal finances. Any basic computer can do this stuff. Things start getting a little more particular if you’d like:
- Reliability
- Advanced photo editing & desktop layout (publishing)
- Video editing capabilities (eg home DVD or to display product offerings)
- Data storage capabilities (eg large movies or databases)
- Play advanced games
- Home theatre capabilities

A computer lasts 3 to 5 years, and while they can often have individual components upgraded, you’ll get the best value if you cover all the things you’d like to do now.

OK, which desktop do I buy?

That’s a tough question because new technology is released every month!

For a medium capabilities computer we would recommend that it meets the below criteria, but we’re happy to help you hunt down and set up the perfect PC for your needs, so get in contact with us!

Don't forget that computer specifications evolve quickly!

What accessories will I need?

The usual suspects are comprised of:

Display (or monitor). Some computers come bundled with a display. Our eyes see more horizontally than we do vertically, and we always recommend a widescreen display. Most people are comfortable with a 19” widescreen display as the smallest, but bigger is better; 22” wide is about the largest most people can make comfortable use of.

Printer (or MultiFunction Centre). While e-mail communication is certainly up there, we aren’t in a paperless world yet and you’ll probably need a printer.

Inkjet (or bubble jet) is best for smaller print runs and colour. Laser printers are best for crisp looking black or text prints or larger print demands. If you use your printer for business you’ll most likely want at least a mono laser available to you as inkjet prints are susceptible to moisture. Sweaty palm prints can cause blurring on your important documents.

Multifunction’s (MFCs) are now very competitively priced, and if you don’t need the smallest footprint, it is often cost effective to buy a Printer, Copier, Scanner, Fax in one. If it’s going to serve your business needs, don’t expect a $599 MFC to replace a full sized dedicated copier that’s been doing it’s full duty.

Wireless Keyboard & Mouse. Free your typing position from wired limitation, a wireless keyboard and mouse provides extra flexibility. Keep in mind that batteries will need replacing or recharging and that if you have too many wireless devices they will interfere, resulting in drop outs or reduced range. Standard wireless keyboard and mice are designed to operate up to a metre from your computer. Bluetooth wireless desktops are often designed to operate up to 10 metres.

Wireless Networking is the fastest way to connect your computer to the internet if you’re planning to put the computer in a room without a phone line. It’s best not to have wireless networking built into your computer, but to purchase an additional USB wireless adaptor. If your wireless is built in, most likely the antenna is tucked away at the back of the computer, in the corner of the room or against the wall, right where reception is worst. A USB adaptor allows you the flexibility of positioning the wireless antenna at the end of any length of USB cable, where reception is best.

Keep in mind that wireless networking can be reliable, but is never as robust as wired networking.

What brands should I consider? Or can I buy off the shelf from my local store?

Branding is as much an emotional decision as it is a logical or practical one. We believe that branding can be a useful tool to ensure you get reliable quality and service from a company that will be around for the long run. Don't forget that brands develop reputations for a reason, and that should be considered as part of your purchase proposition.

Some of the benefits of buying branded include: On site warranties, international warranty service, extended hours telephone support service, extensive repair networks, long availability of spare parts or optional extras, such as replacement motherboards and long term support for software upgrades, for instance supporting the next generation of Windows. Some highly recommended brands include:

What about other brands?

Our list of brands only covers the largest manufacturers, and there are plenty of other names or locally built machines to choose from. Questions you should find the answers to before comitting to a purchase should include:
- Will this brand or store be around for the duration of the warranty?
- Where can I get service or technical support for this brand's computer?
- Do they have easily available accessories and spare parts? (Will I be able to buy a replacement power supply in 2 years time?)
- Do they use common or standard components that will work with my choice of operating systems? (Will my new computer work with the next version of Windows?)
- Do they build reliable computers, what is their market perception?