When you are certain that you really need a computer then you need to consider what computer to purchase.
The most common type of computer is the PC. Fewer and fewer people these days use Macintoshes and while Apple still makes them they are used primarily for graphics work at the high end multimedia level.
For home or office use you may be far better purchasing a desktop PC with pre-installed software. And PC prices are on the way down.
Of course notebook computers are really great if you want to take advantage of the portability that they offer, although you really need to weigh this against the cost -- as laptops are still much more expensive than your average PC with the same functionality.
You need to determine what capabilities you want your computer to have ? the size of the hard drive, the memory and the types of cards ? video and audio ? that it comes with.
For a standard home or basic office use you should be adequately served by 256Mb of RAM memory with a 80Gb hard drive for storage.
Two other things to consider are that you will need a monitor and software.
For a monitor, try for a 17 inch so that you don't have to squint to see what is on your screen. Flat panel displays are great for saving space too and the clarity of the displays now are quite impressive.
Most computers will come installed with software. Find what software the PC will come with and work out if this is all you need.
Basic word processing, spreadsheet and email/organizer software is adequate for most people and the ability to access the internet will require a modem installed as well.
If you are worried about learning to use your computer, don't be. There are tutorials within Windows XP to help get you started, and "wizards" are easy to use, step by step programs built into Windows that will help you learn a lot too.
Plus, once you get hooked up and online with your own computer, you will have access to millions of sites ready and willing to help you learn all about your new desktop PC, the software you have, and even learn how to do things you never imagined!
Check out more of our articles on the parts of a computer to help you understand what computer components you need and what you don't before you buy! http://www.cheap-computers-guide.com/computer-components.html
Guy Ames has been working on and learning about computers for over 10 years, get starter tips on buying a computer or building your own desktop PC including step-by-step tutorials at http://www.cheap-computers-guide.com/
Buying A Computer Guide
The first step is to determine what type of port your is available on the back of your computer. If you have a PS/2 port, you will probably need an adapter for most new or next-gen joysticks. If you have a USB port then you will have decent compatibility with 99% of the modern computer joysticks you will encounter. If your computer doesn't have any of these ports available (they are taken up, or you lack them) you may need to add a USB card to the computer before your new joystick will be able to be used.
If you have the opportunity, you should try to use the joystick in-store before purchasing it. If the joystick is uncomfortable or you are having to use too much force when maneuvering it in different directions, you should probably pass on that model of joystick because it may cause unnecessary wrist strain and leave you unable to have the fast reaction time that new age games require. Make sure the joysticks cord is long enough to reach your computer's ports. You might also want to go the wireless joystick route. Joysticks come in a lot of varieties of sizes; including units that are small enough to hold in just one hand, as well as much larger, more expensive table-top units. Both have their pros and cons.
Some good joystick brands are Logitech, Microsoft, Saitek, Gravis, and many more. If you are a collector, many older models of joysticks from brands like Atari and Commodore can still be found with a little hunting on auction sites like eBay or on sites like Craigslist and can occasionally still be found in their original boxes!
Both Admin & Tgeo are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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