Educational Computing & Technology
Bloomsburg University
Fall 2006
Updated on July 7, 2008
Let's Make a Deal!
I have had many questions regarding the purchase of a new computer so I decided to summarize my thoughts on this web page and provide you with this activity and some of the best resource sites available for persons interested in purchasing a computer.
The information and links on this page reflect my opinion. You should remember that this is one person's OPINION only and you may get totally different answers from another person.
Therefore, if you are in the market for a computer, please do some research and consult with at least 2 other professionals who work with computers. I don't particularly recommend that you rely on the opinion of one salesperson who is trying to sell you a computer.
The purpose of this assignment is to help you become more knowledgeable as a consumer and as one who may give computer advice as a future teacher.
Ray Pastore
YOUR MISSION: Find the best
deal on a computer!
(15 points...due at midterm)
First: Read the information on this page
Second: Visit the sites listed on this page
Third: Complete the information below. You should answer the questions and/or give the information for each category. Be sure to put your NAME on the assignment. TYPE THE CATEGORY NAME before you answer the question.
Company Name and Address:
Company Web Site:
Why You Chose this Computer:
How You will use this Computer:
Type of Computer (Brand, Model, and Desktop or laptop):
Processor (Speed and Make):
RAM (Memory):
Hard Drive (Memory):
Monitor (Brand and Size/LCD or Flat Screen):
Modem (Speed):
Video (Memory):
Removable Storage (CD-R/CD-RW, ZIP Drive, 3.5 Floppy):
Printer:
Warranty:
Software:
Accessories: (Describe the Specifications for each Accessory)
Total Cost:
Questions & Answers
With all the computers available at
school and at the university, do I really need to buy a computer?
This depends on your ability to get your work done and your economic situation.
The main advantage of having your own computer in addition to convenience is
that your technology learning curve increases!
Should I buy a desktop or laptop?
First, you need to consider the fact that laptops cost 2 to 3 times more
than a desktop with the same specifications. The question you should ask in
considering a laptop is "When and where do I need a laptop?" If a desktop cannot
meet your needs, then you are in the market for a laptop.
I'm not a technical person. How can
I get through all the computer terminology?
You should visit
Dave's Guide to Buying a Home Computer and do some research. Write the
important terms down and take some notes so you can decipher the information.
Also visit computer company web sites and look at computer adds. Be sure to read
the section in your book on purchasing computers. The information in your book
can also be found at
Teachers Discovering Computers Chapter 4 BUYER'S GUIDE.
I'm not sure whether I want a MAC or
PC?
You decision to buy a MAC or PC may depend on your comfort zone with each
of these platforms and the school district where you get a job. Approximately
1/3 of the schools in our area use MACS. Remember, that although more than 90%
of all computers sold are PC's, many schools still use MACS. We made a decision
to use mostly PC's in the lab because there are more PC's in the schools and I
believe that trend will continue.
Where should I buy a computer?
Generally, you will get better buys from large retailers such as
Best Buy or
CompUSA
If you need face to face support, then you should buy from a local store that
specializes in computers. Many mail-order companies such as
Gateway and
Dell have great online support and on-site service.
When is a good time to buy a computer
to get the best prices?
Many manufacturers and retailers offer lower prices and have specials between
Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although this is usually the best time for low
prices, you will find specials at other times during the year, particularly
after the holidays.
What features should I look for in
buying a computer?
A reputable manufacturer, fast processor (minimum 1.4 MHz), RAM (minimum (128
MB), hard drive size (minimum 40 GB), monitor size (minimum 15 inch), modem V.
90 56K, CD ROM (32X minimum), video (minimum 16 MB), minimum warranty of one
year parts & labor, and useful software such as Microsoft Office XP.
What accessories do I need?
At minimum, you should consider a printer, floppy drive, CD ROM/DVD drive, and a
zip drive. You may want to consider a CD ROM recorder drive.
What kind of printer should I buy?
You should consider a reputable brand such as Hewlett Packard. You may want to
consider two printers: a laser printer for word processing ($300-$400) and an
inkjet printer for color printing ($50-$150). I recommend this because a laser
printer is usually faster, much more economical (cartridge cost), and does a
better job of printing text.
What software do I need?
At minimum, I would suggest Microsoft Office XP and Norton's System Works.
Remember that Office comes in various packages that may or may not include
PowerPoint, FrontPage, and Access. A word of caution about Norton's Utilities:
You should do a custom install which lets you access the Utilities and Virus
programs when needed. See me about this for more information. You should also
consider student versions of this software that is available through the
bookstore. You will save a considerable amount of money!
What should I look for in terms of
service and warranty?
The best warranties are those that cover at least a year of "onsite" parts &
service.
Recommended Sites
Computer Companies
Gateway Computer
Dell Computer
IBM Corporation
Toshiba America, Inc.
Packard Bell
Compaq.com
eMachines
Apple
HP
Information
Dave's Guide to Buying a Home Computer
Online Companies
Computershopper.com
Micro Warehouse Inc.
Newegg Inc.
Tiger Direct Inc.
PC Connection
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