You need to profile yourself before shopping for a new computer. The eighteen year old college student needs the notebook. Light enough to slip in a backpack. The mom in her thirties wants both. Nice wireless system in the house. One desktop pc to share with the kids and one laptop for when she stretches out in front of the tv. The beginning gamer can't usually afford what he wants. Speed and a high price laptop to spend all his free time with. The gamer is a special breed. Craving competition he'll always buy the most expensive model he can possibly afford.



Aside from your general needs there are things to consider before you buy. Start by checking out the many online stores for information. Copy and paste what sounds interesting. Compare some prices. Then you can take your new information out to some stores and look around. Take some time. There's a wide array of possibilities out there. Think of which profile matches you best. Then ask yourself these the following nine questions.

-- What Will You Do On The Computer: For instance will you take it out of the house? Is it more convenient to have it readily available as a desktop pc that you can sit down at for short or long periods of time? Or would you like something you can carry from one room to another?

--Where Should You Shop For The Computer: You should go online first. (most everyone has access to a computer). Look up the stores. You can type in your zip code and get a list of places near your home. Browse around. Read a few other articles for ideas. Take time to do preliminary price comparisons. That's easier to accomplish without a sales person trying to influence your decision. He or she wants to push the "sale item of the month."

--Sit down with a friend who can advise you: Talk about the information you gathered. Discuss what you want in a computer. If you have a parent who's paying the bill, they should be in on the discussion.

--Write down the highest amount you can afford to spend: You can always find one on sale if you're willing to be a little flexible. Try to wait for a sale or you can even check with stores to see when they expect to have it on sale. Once you put it down in writing, don't go over that amount.

--Make a shopping list: Jot down ten capabilities you want your computer to have. Give a general description of what models look good. At the top of the list -- write the dollar amount that won't go over. It'll help you stay firm. --Time for you to start shopping: Take the list and whatever sales information you find in the newspaper for example. Browse through the stores that list the best prices. Be firm

-- the first day you shop isn't the time to buy. If the salesman tells you a certain model is "only on sale today" there will be other sales. Take at least twenty-four hours before making a final decision.

--Time To Purchase: Take a few more shopping trips. Think about what you want in accessories in case you find a great package deal on a set-up. Consider whether or not you want a service contract. A first-time buyer is wise to get one. Sometimes anti-virus software is included in a package deal. If not, a beginner should purchase that software. Some offers include six-months of free Internet service. Look for that.

--Decide how to make payment: Use a major credit card. This gives you recourse if anything should go wrong. The store may urge you to open their credit account. Usually the interest rate is higher.

--Take Your Brand-New Computer Home: Enjoy. And don't forget to read all the instruction manuals. It will help you avoid mistakes as you familiarize yourself with the operating system.