Buying a computer
The Quick Guide
Senior citizens often ask what to look for when buying a computer, what software they need for email, basic Internet usage and word processing, etc. Many are on a limited budget. If you are such a reader, here are our suggestions as to what you should consider as a minimum.
POWER
The CPU (central processing unit, or "processor" for short) is the brain of your computer. In general, the faster the better. Processor speeds are measured in gigahertz (GHz) and at the time of writing this article the fastest models available operate at about 4 GHz. Entry-level machines start at about 2.0 GHz and are more than adequate for web surfing, email and word processing. Ignore any computer with a processor whose speed is specified in megahertz (MHz) as this will be an old model.
MEMORY
The next decision you have to make is how much RAM memory you need. Don't confuse RAM with hard drive (file storage) space. RAM is the temporary working memory that your computer uses to perform calculations and manipulate files. When you open a document, it is copied from the hard drive into RAM. As you and your word processor work on the file, the modified copy exists only in RAM. When you save the file, it is copied from RAM back to the hard drive, or permanent storage. And as with CPU power, the more RAM you have, the better your computer will perform. We recommend you have a minimum 1 gigabyte (GB) of RAM, but with 2 gigabytes (2048 MB) you'll notice better performance.
HARD DRIVE
The hard drive is your permanent file storage. All your personal files, such as word processor documents, photos, music, and emails are stored here, in addition to software packages and the operating system. Most new PCs come with a hard drive that's several hundred gigabytes (GB). We recommend you start with a hard drive of 320 GB or more, but consider moving up to 500 GB if you plan to keep lots of photos, music or videos on your computer. Hard drives that can store a terabyte (1000 GB) are now available for around £100, so there's really no need to skimp on disk storage space.
MONITOR (SCREEN)
Larger Monitor = Less Eyestrain and Less Scrolling. We recommend a 17-inch monitor, or even a 19-inch if you don't mind spending a bit more. Don't worry about brand names here - they're all pretty much the same. We suggest that any monitor smaller than 14 or 15 inches will prove eye-straining for the more mature user.
SOFTWARE
Most of the software you need will come pre-installed on your new PC. Windows comes with Internet Explorer (for web browsing) and Outlook Express (for email). Many PC systems include a word processor, such as Microsoft Word or OpenOffice. If your computer doesn't come with any of these, we suggest you buy Microsoft Works, which will give you a word processor similar to MS Word, a spreadsheet similar to MS Excel, and other useful programs. If you don't mind downloading your own software, you can also find free office software that works just as well.
Look for a computer that comes with anti-virus software pre-installed. If yours doesn't come with any anti-virus package, check with your Internet service provider to see if they offer anything for free. Another option - you can download an excellent free anti-virus package to replace the one that comes with your system when the free trial period expires.
SUMMARY
• Look for a Windows based PC with monitor for around £400
• Processor: 2.0 GHz or better
• RAM memory: 1 GB or better
• Hard Drive: 320 GB or better
• Monitor: 17-inch or larger
• Software: Microsoft Works and free anti-virus
WHERE TO BUY
Your local computer store may have some good deals and offer local support. Electronics stores such as Staples and PC World are also good places to explore. If you're comfortable buying online, consider Dell, Gateway and other vendors to compare features and pricing.
