Over the past few months, I have had many enquiries from clients who are experiencing computer failures and many of my clients look at me in horror as I suggest it’s time for a replacement, and I can understand why. The prospect of visiting a large retailer and purchasing a replacement computer or any technology can be daunting. It isn’t easy to know what you’re looking for. Over the years I have come across too many stories of people looking for a reasonable replacement only to find they leave spending thousands more than they needed. Hopefully, this article may provide you with a guide on how to go about purchasing a computer with as little angst as possible.
1. Do your research
If you have access to the internet, start by looking for what’s available. Search the big retailers online to compare prices, and look for well-known brands. Think about what you’re looking for, is it a laptop, a desktop, or a 2 in 1 computer. Then look at the specifications, all computers have the following RAM (short term memory), CPU (the brain), HARD DRIVE (the storage). When you compare computers compare these specifications.
2. Ask someone qualified
This is where a good technician can offer advice. For many of my long-term clients I generally know what they need before upgrading. The beauty of a technician is that they generally don’t sell computers, so you will receive an unfiltered opinion based on your needs and not their stock. I would suggest if you are looking for advice, contact your local technician it may be worth the call-out fee that may save you hundreds.
3. Buy Online
By all means, I am not suggesting you avoid retailers, many clients may visit the store to see what it is they may purchase. Although retailers carefully plan their sales so as to maximise your purchase, they may offer additional software, antivirus, and remote support that you may not need. Once you are comfortable with your purchase, go home and buy it online. This removes you from the mercy of the impulse buy pressured by a salesperson. At your leisure, you can spend 20 minutes following the prompts to purchase the product through their secure website which protects your details. Many opt to pay a small delivery fee or collect from the store already pre-purchased.
4. Install
This is one last bastion of dread, how to transfer your data and set it up. Many computer stores offer this service, and each one uses their own alchemy for transfer. Windows 10 was not very helpful with this process so many major manufacturers have offered their own built-in software to do this. Apple also provides a seamless transfer if you are transferring apple to apple. For my clients, I will generally pick up their old and new computer, transfer and set them up over two days (approx.) then bring them both back, install the new one onsite then go through a quick tutorial.
If you have a pc that is long in the tooth, hopefully, this will give you a starting point for replacement. As usual, if you have any questions you can always email me at nathan@hometechassist.com.au or call 1300 682 817. Many Thanks