Hardware? Software? What Should You Buy?
By Cheryl McKeary
When I first began my desktop publishing business, my office computer
consisted of a Mac 512K with a 10MB (yes, I mean megabyte) hard drive
and a dot matrix printer.
I barely knew the difference between hardware and software; let alone
what email and the Internet were. Fifteen years later, I have two computers
(a Mac and a PC with at least 60GB hard drive), three printers, a high-speed
connection to the Internet and more software than I can list.
Needless to say, I spend a lot of time on the computer using software
programs, searching the Internet and, of course, trying to keep sane
with all there is to learn and relearn. If you’re new to the
computer or trying to determine which programs to use, read on.
Buying a Computer
There are many questions you’ll need to pose (and have clear
answers to) to make the right decision in purchasing your computer.
Should you buy a PC or Macintosh? Both platforms are good. Both platforms
have their pluses and minuses and, yes, both platforms will crash.
(If anyone tells you differently, they don’t work on the computer
much.) To accomplish what you are setting out to do, how much memory
will the computer need? How much hard drive space? How large a monitor
will you need?
All these answers really depend on what you are going to do with the
machine. Someone who simply wants to play games and send email probably
can get away with less memory than someone who wants to retouch photos
or work with high end graphics. The best answer to how much computer
will you need? Ask around.
Find people who are doing work similar to what you are planning to
do and get their recommendations. Call local computer stores and tell
them what you want to use a computer for and ask for recommendations.
However, keep in mind they are there to sell you the most they can,
so contact several places to see if you get similar responses to your
questions.
On the PC vs. Mac dilemma, aim for whichever platform your associates
use. While most programs can be converted to either platform, it’s
easier to use the same system others in your field are using.
Determine how much you would like to spend on a computer. Are you planning
to travel? Perhaps a laptop would be a better solution than a desktop
model. Do you want a name brand or a generic computer that is built
with your specifications in mind? As long as you get a good warranty,
there isn’t much difference today between a name brand and a
custom-built computer.
Review the warranty. If there is a problem with the computer, can it
be serviced at your location or will you have to take it out for servicing?
Purchasing a computer online will most likely be cheaper, however,
you won’t get the same support as when you shop locally. Most
support from online dealers only relates to the hardware.
If you have a question on why your printer isn’t recognized by
the computer, you’ll most likely get the answer, “We can’t
help you with that. We can only determine that the hardware is working.
Our support service doesn’t include help with software or compatibility
issues.”
If you don’t need tech support beyond hardware issues, shopping
online can be easy on your wallet. Be sure to check out how others
have rated the online store.
Software Programs
After determining the computer you want, your next step is to find
appropriate software. There is more software in use today than you
would ever have time to learn or use.
In fact, a search on google.com for “software programs” turned
up 4,430,000 results. That’s not the number of programs out there,
but it shows how time consuming it can be to look for the right software
program.
Make a list of your requirements. Compare that list to what the software
offers and determine if the program is right for you. Are you writing
letters to your family and friends or creating your first novel? Do
you need to insert graphics? Is colored text important? Are you planning
to write the same letter to hundreds of people (mail merge)?
All of these answers will factor into the program you will ultimately
need. And, again, what you want to use the software for will determine
what you purchase.
If you are going to need training, find out who can train you on the
specific software you purchase. Do the local adult-ed courses or computer
stores offer the class you want?
If you are looking for one-on-one training, is there someone available
who can show you how to use the software, answer questions, perhaps
even anticipate your needs?
For most of you on the market for a computer for business purposes,
I would recommend (as a first program) Microsoft Word. While there
are many word processing programs available that are easier to use,
if you are sharing documents with others, inserting graphics or creating
simple brochures, this software is the best choice.
For instance, files created in this program can be saved in various
other formats for compatible use with other software programs your
associates may use. (Other software documents cannot necessarily be
saved in a Word format.) Other programs to consider may be WordPerfect,
or if cost is a factor, there are many freeware programs to try. (Go
to http://simplythebest.net and type in “word processing” for
a list of some.)
Software can be purchased online or at your local computer or office
supply store. I always recommend at least checking out prices online
as a foundation. For an easy comparison-shopping site, try www.pricegrabber.com.
Word processing is only the beginning of the programs you may need;
but for most computer users it’s a must. You can also get the
entire suite of Microsoft products, including PowerPoint (presentation
program), Access (database program), and Excel (spreadsheet program).
These are all great programs but don’t buy the entire bundle
if you don’t have time to learn them, or have no use for them.
Like that old Nordic Track that sits in the corner – the only
use it ever gets is as a coat hanger.
Next time, we’ll discuss selecting a page layout program.
Cheryl McKeary owns and operates a desktop publishing business and
uses both MAC and PC computers. She can be reached at mckearydesigns@gmail.com.
