Computer Specials
Teresa Pfeiff

Ready or not, the holidays are here! Everywhere you turn there are going to be BIG sales, everything will be marked down, and the deals will never get any better than they are right now! Whatever! There are computer specials as low as $299.00. Why not call and order one of those special systems right away? Because those machines may not be equipped with the specifications that you need to run the applications for your business or educational needs.

If a $299.00 system will fit your needs, GREAT, however most of the time it might not. There are reasons why these computers are priced so low.

No anti-virus software

One way to cut costs on a system is to eliminate the antivirus software. Most people who purchase a computer for home and business use will be using it for Internet and e-mail, thus anti-virus software is a must. Adding reliable anti-virus software after purchasing a system will cost anywhere from $50.00 to $70.00.

Warranty

Another way to cut costs on a computer system is to offer a lower-end warranty, sometimes only a 90 day warranty! If a system does come with a 1 year warranty then it may be one that has limited coverage. Some notebook systems have mail-in service. This means that in the case of problems covered in the warranty, you have to mail your system back to the manufacturer for service.You will need to add anywhere from $30.00 for basic coverage that lasts a year and possibly $100.00 to $200.00 or more for 1-3+ years of coverage against accidental spills, drops and surges. Drake Hardware and Software suggests at least a 3 year warranty on systems.

Productivity software

Programs such as Microsoft Office Basic, Small Business Edition, or Professional Edition can add a significant amount to the price of a computer system. The cheap computers that are advertised usually do not have an Office package included. These programs can cost as much as $150.00-$400.00, depending upon which edition you choose.

Operating system

The cheaper systems usually come with Windows XP Home, which is fine if that operating system will meet your needs. However, businesses need to spend the extra $80.00 - $120.00 to get the Windows XP Professional operating system for several reasons. One reason is software, a lot of business based applications perform better on an XP Pro system, if it isn't required! Another reason is networking. Windows XP Pro is better suited for network environments than XP Home.

Memory

A lot of the cheaper computer systems come with only 256 megabytes of memory or RAM. 256 megabytes (MB) of RAM is fine if you want to sacrifice performance. Drake Hardware & Software suggests at least 512 MB of RAM for a new computer to run today's business applications smoothly with Windows XP. One gigabyte (1 GB) of RAM is even better. Getting more RAM with your system can add anywhere from $40.00 to $90.00, depending upon the amount.

Monitors

The $299.00 systems may or may not come with a monitor. A packaged monitor is probably going to be a CRT (cathode-ray tube) as opposed to an LCD (liquid crystal display), which provides better clarity, runs cooler (looks cooler), and takes up less space on your desk. In order to get a monitor with a system plan to add about $50.00 to $180.00 or more, depending upon how big and what type of monitor you wish to purchase.

Removable disk drives

The cheaper systems may only come with a CD burner. For a few extra dollars you can get a CDRW/DVD combo drive. This allows you to read and write compact discs, as well as read DVD's. A lot of business tools are now available on DVD, so it is cheaper to order a new system with DVD reading capabilities as opposed to adding a new drive later. If you stick to adding just a DVD player it may only add about $20.00 to the system, if you upgrade to a DVD/RW you could add as much as $40.00 or more to the price of a new system.

Processors

Another way to drive the price of a computer down is to put in a lower end processor. When talking Intel based products the Celeron processor was designed as a lower cost alternative to the Pentium. For business based applications the Pentium is the only way to go, in fact we even suggest home users spend the extra money and get a Pentium processor as well.

When making a decision to purchase a new system you must look at several different options and not just the price. Price is important, but in order to get a system that will meet your long-term needs you will have to customize the basic computer system with some of the components mentioned above. When you do this you are not only boosting performance but you are also boosting the price of a computer. Also, you are going to be purchasing a system that will be around to serve you in the future, not just your immediate needs, so it only makes sense to spend a little extra money now to get the system that fits your current and future needs.

As you shop for a new system for your business or home make sure you are comparing "apples to apples" and "oranges to oranges." Comparing a computer system that can be purchased at a discount mart to a system that you had a professional spec out for you may not be a fair comparison. If you have any questions let the experts at Drake Hardware & Software help you!