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PURCHASING A LAPTOP COMPUTER
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There is an allure to purchasing a laptop computer. They are
small, sleek and highly productive. What features should you
consider when purchasing a laptop? For those who need quick
highlights first we'll present a brief overview for the cautious
laptop buyer. Later in this tutorial we'll shift gears for a
broader "beginners" overview.
Before jumping into our tutorial, a reading recommendation.
Visit your local library and locate a back issue of the August
1992 edition of PC Magazine. That issue covered a variety of
reviews concerning specific laptop machines and also contained
some surprising suggestions for productive laptop use. While on
the topic of pertinent reading, check for other useful titles in
the reading list section elsewhere within this tutorial.
Next, general suggestions for laptop buyers...
1) The keyboard is the most important interactive part
of any laptop. Is it awkward? Could you use it for longer than
15 minutes? An hour? A complete morning at work? Note the
location of frequently used keys like the backslash \, the F1
function help key, the cursor control keys. Some oddball laptops
require you to use a shift-funtion key combination for cursor
keys. Not terribly comfortable. Othertimes the cursor position
keys are oddly laid out in a non standard pattern which is
difficult to use and memorize. One of the classic keyboard
layouts is the Toshiba 286 T1200XE. Glance at the layout on this
machine and compare it to your target laptop.
2) The screen. Next to the keyboard this is the greatest delight
- or pain - when it comes to using a laptop computer. Can you
use it for longer than an hour? Screens can be either backlit or
edgelit. Each has advantages. Try both and see which you like. A
few clever laptops have screen reversing software built in which
can change the screen from black lettering on a light field to
light lettering on a dark field. Helpful for some folks. Ask if
your target machine has it. Find out if you like it. Is the
output VGA (display and run most software) or lowly CGA (run
and display fewer packages?) Is there a port on the back so you
can plug in your big monitor to the back of the laptop when you
are home or at the office? Do you need to buy an adapter for
this? On an airplane tray can the screen be tilted so that the
seat in front does not bump into the screen edge?
3) Weight. Fully outfitted with adapters, disks and batteries,
what is the real "workday" weight of the laptop? Load the
machine and accessories into a carrying case and heft it for a
while. Brochures proclaim extremely light weight figures - in
real life you will carry the computer and accessories.
4) Price. Determine the REAL price. You will need an AC
adapater, carrying case and probably spare battery as a minimum.
You will need DOS and some software. Beyond that, most people
need a few manufacturer specific cables and sometimes a modem.
Add it ALL up.
5) Battery life is a touchy subject - ultimately the attraction
of laptops is the opportunity to get work done on the road.
Battery life of an hour or so isn't much real work, when you
think about it. Two to four hours on a fully charged battery is
a working range today. Ask if the laptop has special battery
saving features such as sleep mode, pause and resume, user
selectable delays for drive and screen refresh use, powerdown
mode, capability to change batteries without shutting down the
machine and loosing data. Nice features. Is it easy and FAST to
change batteries or a real chore? Look at the clasps and snaps
as you open and close the battery compartment.
6) Modems. Someday you will need one. Does the laptop have a
standard serial modem slot to which any low priced modem can
be attached or a proprietary manufacturer specific slot to which
ONLY that manufacturer's (expensive) modem will attach? For a
few extra dollars consider a modem with combined internal fax
send and receive capability which is a godsend for travellers.
Much cheaper in the long run than paying your hotel $6 per page
to transmit and receive faxes.
7) How much memory can you add to the laptop? For light word
processing and spreadsheet work 640K may be all you need. But
serious software use, Windows use or high end graphics may
require 2 or more Megabytes of memory. How much can you install
into the machine? How much will it cost? Can you install the
additional memory or must the factory?
8) Drives. A standard 3.5 inch floppy drive is almost essential
today. A hard drive, too, if you can afford it. If the laptop
has no floppy, you might need to purchase special software and
cables to transfer files between your laptop and desktop
computer. One more expense. Back to the hard drive for a moment:
if you work with large mailing lists, huge databases of clients
or unusually large spreadsheets you MUST have a hard drive with
larger than average capacity. Between 40MB to 100MB would be a
wise investment for hard drive intensive storage applications.
9) Details. Beyond a serial port (for the modem or mouse) does
it have a parallel port for a printer? How about capability for
an external keyboard? Slot for math coprocessor? Null modem
cable for transferring data between other computers.
10) Form follows function. If you plan to use the laptop mostly
as your PRIMARY machine at home and work, focus on maximum power
and expandable features. If you are a power user of Windows and
graphics software you will need VGA display, at least 2MD of ram
and at least a 386SX processor. However, if your primary work is
spent on the road in planes and trains, pay attention to long
battery life and quickly interchangeable battery packs.
11) Consider the new breed of tiny portable printers which work
well with laptops. Included are the Diconix 150 Plus which
weighs in at 3 pounds, Canon BJ-10 Bubblejet, Citizen PN48 and
Star Micronics StarJet SJ-48. All printers will need spare ink
cartridges, printer cable, paper, AC power supply and spare
batteries.
A brief glance at portable computer configurations....
Laptops are for the most part single-piece computer systems
weighing in at between 7 to 15 pounds. In most cases the viewing
screen opens in a characteristic "clamshell" manner. All are IBM
compatible and most will functions from AC or battery power.
Most offer some expanability in memory and some, but not all
will even accept an expansion board. The latest designs can
mater to a "docking module" which adds powerful desktop features
when the units are used in a stationary office setting. Prices
range from about $700 to well over $5,000 for advanced models.
Examples: the Toshiba T4400SX, Librex M386SL, Bondwell B-310SX,
Dell 320LT.
Notebooks weigh in at 4 to 7 pounds and usually feature both AC
and battery power. Both hard drive and floppy drive models are
available. Prices range from $700 to about $2,000. By far
notebooks are the most popular category in the consumer
marketplace and for most users have the best balance of weight,
cost and features. Examples: Epson NB3, Dell NX-20, Tandy 1800
HD, Sharp 6220, Tandy 110 HD, NEC 286F UltraLite, Compaq LTE286,
Toshiba T1200XE.
Palmtops. The smallest of the small. Weighing in at a pound or
less these machines features minaturized keyboards, vestpocket
size, lack of hard or floppy drives and varying amounts of true
IBM compatability. Features are sacrificed in the quest for
miniaturization. Some, such as the Hewlett-Packard 95LX contain
built in software such as the standard Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet.
At this writing, only the diminuitive Poqet palmtop is equipped
to run most IBM compatable software. Tiny credit card sized
memory modules are available for some models. Prices range from
aobut $400 to over $2,000.
Next, a broader tutorial about buying a computer for the first
time. A refresher course for the advanced. An eye opener for the
beginner. Some topic areas also address concerns about larger
desktop computers as well as smaller laptops - a broad base of
information is usually useful so references to desktop
computers has been included.
Buying a new or used computer is always THE traumatic event. It
seems to be easier if you merely NEED one for a definite office
or productivity goal such as financial analysis or compiling a
mailing list of customers. In that case, you can be logical and
evaluate among several machines and take your time. If, however
you WANT one because it sounds interesting and you feel a little
lost when everyone in the neighborhood is discussing CPU WAIT
STATES, you have some serious research ahead!
From a use standpoint, start at the beginning: What do you want
to do with the computer? What software applications will perform
these tasks? After determining answers to those two questions,
purchase as much computing power as you can afford which allows
you to use all current software of interest as well as retaining
the possibility of upgrading the machine later - more memory or a
better video display, for example.
Simple applications like word processing, accounting and
telecommunications may run equally fast on both budget and high
end computers while sophisticated software such as drafting,
large databases and desktop publishing may run so slowly on a
low end computer that your wasted time far offsets the original
savings on the budget computer. When in doubt run several
software packages which provide features you want on the
computer in question.
Three technical factors are of interest when purchasing a
computer: the type of CPU (central processing unit) which is the
brains of a personal computer, the speed of the CPU and finally
the choice between 8 bit and 16 bit CPU types.
A brief refresher course: A bit is a binary digit used by
computers to store and process data. Typically 8 bits are needed
to construct a byte or computer character such as a number or
letter. Eight bit processors can process one byte or character
at a time. Sixteen bit processors can processor two bytes at a
time. Faster is better for most folks - although speed has its
price...
In the IBM world of clone PC's there are four camps of CPU desire
and capability.
On the low end of price and performance are personal computers
of the so-called XT class using the oldest processors such as
the Intel 8088 (8 bit data bus outside the CPU and 16 bit data
bus inside the CPU) which was used on the original IBM PC. The
Intel 8086 CPU, alternatively, provides both 16 bit internal and
external construction. A similar CPU is the NEC V-20 chip.
Advantages, disadvantages and uses for these XT class machines?
XT's are affordable. A basic machine with a couple of floppy
drives, monitor and keyboard can be obtained for $300 to $400.
XT class machines are useful for small and home office work or
light hobbyist use such as word processing and accounting where
speed is not of great concern. Generally XT class machines, as
with all IBM clones, can be upgraded by the gradual (or
immediate) addition of hard drives, color monitors and even
faster processors. As a curious aside, this software package was
programmed and edited entirely on an XT class machine. In a
sense computing power does not derive from the machine, but HOW
you use it!
When is an XT not a good buy? If you intend to do CAD drafting,
work with large database mailing list, or high resolution
graphics, an XT is not a wise choice. If you ever to run
the OS/2 operating system or Microsoft Windows which are
advanced operating and display standards, XT machines are not a
good idea. Finally, if you intend to expand the machine to
color graphics such as an EGA or VGA standard or install large
amounts of memory an XT is probably not an ideal choice.
One step up the ladder in performance and price is the AT class
machine which runs an Intel (or alternate manufacturer) 80286
CPU chip. The machine is usually 2 to 4 times faster than an XT
class machine at perhaps $200 more in price. For most people an
AT class machine is a comfortable choice since it can not only
run OS/2 and Windows (albeit sluggishly) but also run earlier
software programs at greater speeds. AT class machines are
considered a "plain vanilla" standard in most office environments
and are usually sold with hard drives and additional memory as
standard equipment.
The 80286 processor also operates in two modes which the 8088
and 8086 cannot: REAL MODE which allows the 80286 CPU to work
like an 8088 CPU and PROTECTED MODE which allows access to more
RAM memory. In theory, the older 8088 CPU chip can address up to
1 Megabyte of memory. An 8088 CPU always operates in real mode.
In protected mode, however, the 80286 CPU can use up to 16
Megabytes of memory which can be an advantage in running both
larger, more sophisticated programs as well as earlier programs.
In addition, the 80286 CPU can, with the proper software, run
several programs simultaneously which is know as MULTITASKING.
The benefits of both protected mode and multitasking are
somewhat unrealized at present although certain of these
benefits can be obtained when running Windows software rather
than DOS. Because of this, most users who continue to run DOS
use an 80286 computer as a FAST device rather than seeking the
advantages of multitasking or protected mode operation. And the
80286 is VERY fast indeed with some manufacturers pushing the
CPU to speeds of 25 Mhz.
Generally, adding additional upgrade equipment such as EGA
monitors and laser printers is a good investment with an AT
machine but a poor idea with an XT machine. The AT machine uses
a 16 bit bus structure for rapid data flow while the older XT
class machine uses a more primitive 8 bit bus.
AT class machines run graphics and CAD programs relatively
quickly. Hard drives operate quickly on an AT class machine with
its larger 16 bit bus. It is a good choice for the small home
office doing word processing, accounting, light desktop
publishing, medium sized database mailing lists and so forth.
Still higher up the food chain are 80386 and 80386SX CPU
equipped machines which are still faster and provide a few more
whistles and bells. They can run software which XT and AT class
machines run, only FASTER. They are the machines of choice for
office LAN networks, intensive graphics, CAD programming,
Windows, OS/2, compilers and other number intensive programs.
Curiously, though, the 80386 data bus remains 16 bits wide in
most of these machines and there is no "OS/3" operating system,
so the performance you derive is speed without additional
whistles and bells. For most users, a "386" machine is mostly an
office computer which a home or hobby user might admire but
rarely need.
Intel corrected the problem of switching from real mode to
protected mode - a design flaw of the 80286 - and added a third
mode called virtual mode which allows the CPU to act as if
several "separate" 8088 computers are all running within one
machine. In addition the 80386 chip is a true 32 bit CPU which
processes four bytes or characters at a time. This 32 bit
structure effectively makes the 80386 CPU twice as fast as the
80286 CPU. Finally, the 80386 can directly address a whopping
four gigabytes of memory if available which is 256 times larger
than the amount of memory the 80286 can address! The downside is
that many of these advantages cannot be realized when running
DOS. Windows or OS/2 operating systems provide access to these
advanced features. Speed and additional memory capability is the
primary byproduct of operating an 80386 within a DOS environment.
The 80386SX is an affordable variant of the 80386 CPU. The key
difference is that it uses an EXTERNAL 16 bit data bus outside
the CPU which is similar to that used on conventional 80286 or
AT class computers. Internally it is quite similar to its big
brother, the 80386, and offers similar multitasking modes and
memory addressing. It can run all of the software the 80386
machine can, albeit slightly more slowly. These design
compromises allow manufacturers to produce an affordable
computer with a good balance of speed and cost. For many users
needing a powerful computer which can run all current and most
future software, the 80386SX is an enviable balance of
performance versus price and offers superior memory management,
optimum speed and ability to run current and future software.
The primary reason to select a 80386 over the 80386SX involves
the need for higher speed processing, ability to run 32-bit
software and advanced multitasking.
Before introducing the fourth Intel CPU, the 80486, two new
concepts must be mentioned: memory caching and mathcoprocessing.
As the speed of the CPU becomes faster, the RAM memory chips
where data is stored have difficulty moving data into and out of
the CPU. Memory caching involves special high speed RAM memory
chips - typically an amount from 64K to 128K - in addition to
the normal memory chips within the computer. These high speed
chips are expensive but keep data poised to quickly move in and
out of the CPU. Memory caching should not be confused with disk
caching which is another concept used when discussing hard
drives.
A second way to increase performance is to install a math
coprocessor chip into the empty socket which is available on
most computers. This device shares the processing of specific
numeric operations which can slow the CPU. Only certain types of
software support math coprocessors such as some CAD, spreadsheet
and graphics software. Not all software benefits from the use of
a math coprocessor.
The 80486 CPU combines the features of the 80386 chip plus the
addition of a self-contained on-chip coprocessor and memory
cache. Although the memory cache is small, a mere 8K, it is
extremely effective since it is onboard with the CPU itself. The
80486 is useful for advanced scientific applications, CAD
drafting, graphics and high speed LAN (local area network)
shared computers in an office environment.
An 80486SX CPU is also available which is essentially a "poor
man's" 80486 with a smaller external data bus.
Back to CPU clock speed. Older XT (8088 CPU) machines operate at
a relatively slow speed of 4.7 to 10.0 Mhz or Megahertz. One
Megahertz equals one million cycles of electricity per second.
AT class machines (80286 CPU) operate in regions of 10 to 25 Mhz
while 80386 and 80486 machines operate at speeds in the 20 to
40Mhz region. Obviously faster is better especially when it
comes to colorful graphics displays, CAD drafting, large
spreadsheets and massive programming tasks. However simple word
processing, small business accounting and routine mailing list
management is more than adequate at 4.7 Mhz. The need for speed
is relative to the computing task at hand!
Let's backtrack for a moment and discuss RAM memory. Most
computers are sold with a specific amount of memory installed on
the main "motherboard". Increments of 640K to 1Meg of memory are
common. It is commonly advertised that additional memory may be
added as "expandable on the motherboard" to some upper limit
such as 4Meg or 8Meg. Thus the user can easily install plug in
chips of SIMM's (single inline memory modules) to sockets on the
motherboard. If possible, insist on SIMM memory modules which
are simpler for the average user to install rather than earlier
DRAM chips. Additional plug in memory boards can also be
installed into computers having an 80286 or higher CPU. Up to 16
Meg of RAM memory is possible on 80286 CPU equipped computers.
Why install more memory beyond the 640K which DOS can address?
For fast memory caching, RAM disks, TSR installations, access
to programs which can use either or both expanded or extended
memory, to run the Windows operating system or OS/2. These
software requirements are not terribly exotic - but are simply
ways to improve performance and speed for more experienced
computer users.
The hard disk is also a consideration in any computer purchase.
CPU speed is determined by the clock speed of the computer while
hard drive speed is determined by two factors: access speed and
drive type.
Extremely fast hard drives operate at 18 milliseconds access
time or faster. Bargain computer hard drives operates in the
range of 28 to 40 milliseconds. Hard drives must also be mated
to a controller circuit which offers its own blend of
performance and economy. MFM and RLL drive/controller
combinations are earlier and less expensive hard drives while
ESDI, IDE and SCSI drives are faster and more expensive high
performance options.
Floppy drives come is various configurations. Budget computers
may contain only a 1.2MB floppy drive and hard drive. This
configuration can read two floppy densities: 1.2MB and 360K
floppies. A more flexible computer contains a hard drive, 1.2MB
floppy and 1.44MB floppy. This computer can read four floppy
formats: 1.2MM, 1.44MB, 720K and 360K. Ask if a budget computer
can later be upgraded to include other drive configurations. The
new smaller drives housing the rigid "mini floppies" such as
the 1.44MB and 720K formats hold 20% to 50% more data in a
sturdy plastic case with spring loaded dust door.
Monochrome displays are suitable for low end word processing but
today's software usually requires VGA color resolution as a
minimum. An affordable option is a VGA video card and a
MONOCHROME (black and white) VGA monitor which provides an
acceptable 64 shades of gray with most modern software
applications.
Several sources of computer equipment are available - each with
a different flavor.
1) Manufacturer direct or direct sales, such as Dell, Northgate
and Zeos. This method usually assures relatively high quality
at fairly attractive price savings since you are dealing
directly with those who design and manufacture the computer.
Service is usually good, via telephone, FAX and BBS. The
downside is that you must deal through the mail and await
delivery. Price is very attractive, but not necessarily the
lowest available.
2) Retail vendors such as Computerland or Tandy. Convenience is
the factor here since service, returns and delivery is handled
locally. You pay slightly higher for this additional
convenience. Generally this is the most expensive computer
purchase option.
3) Mail Order Houses. Almost 15 percent of PC sales are
conducted by mail. Mail order houses do not completely design
and build their own systems like direct sellers but rely on
imported and pre-manufactured assemblies. Technical phone
support can be variable, but if you shop carefully, you can save
even more over local retail or manufacturer direct channels.
Mail order sources are available in newsstand magazines such as
Computer Shopper and PC Sources.
4) VAR's or Resellers. These specialized vendors usually provide
systems in volume frequently with "value added" features such as
special software setup, training or unique customization of
computer systems.
5) Home brewers. The ready availability of computer components
has spawned a cottage industry of small shops, some in home or
low rent office spaces which can custom design a system or allow
you to build your own computer using parts and facilities which
they provide. These small, minimum overhead operations can
provide extremely low prices but guarantees and service
contracts should be provided in writing and background of the
vendor should be investigated carefully.
What are some questions and requirements in purchasing a system?
What speeds are available on the CPU? 10 Mhz is standard on XT's
with 12 to 20 Mhz on AT's and 33 mhz on 80386 machines. How many
free slots are available on the internal motherboard for
expansion with future upgrade circuits? Five to eight expansion
slots is desirable except on small laptop computers. Is there
both a serial and parallel port? How many of each? Mouse port?
Is a clock chip included? How big is the hard drive? 40 to 80
Meg is considered somewhat standard in size today for most hard
drives although smaller 20 meg hard drives are useful for light
office use computers.
How many bays are available for extra drives? Two is minimum.
How many floppies? What size of floppies? Most computers today
minimally have either two floppies OR one floppy and one hard
drive. Who makes the hard drive? Seagate, Connor and Miniscribe
are considered reasonable, although not exclusive choices. Who
makes the floppy drive? Teac, Panasonic, Sony and Toshiba are
considered reputable in floppy manufacture.
Whose BIOS chip powers the machine? Phoenix, Award and AMI Bios
chips are all fine. How much memory is installed on the
motherboard. 640K is a bare minimum for all machines with 80286
and 80386 machines usually offered with at least two to four
Megs of RAM memory. Any memory cache chips? Any coprocessor
installed? Coprocessor socket available?
What warranty covers the product and for how long? Does the
warranty cover both parts and labor? Does the vendor have
sufficient inventory to replace the entire computer if problems
arise? Is there a different warranty for the printer? Who
provides the service? What is the vendor's return policy AND
refund policy. Is there a restocking charge? Is there a discount
or change in price when dealing by check or charge card? How
long has the vendor been in business? Is the warranty 90 days,
one year or two years as some manufacturers are now offering?
Money back guarantee? How long? 30, 60, 90 days? What type of
refund on this guarantee: store credit, cash, exchange? Will you
put it in writing? Shipping and handling fee? Visa card
surcharge?
How good is technical support? Is there a toll-free support
line? 24 hours or limited hours? Is there a BBS (modem)
telephone line for support?
Is maintenance performed on site (the customer's location) or
only at the vendor's location? Response time? Special
conditions? Is the on-site service essentially the same in
terms, such as parts and labor, as off-site?
Has the vendor sold computers to buyers in your business
specialty (medical, for example). References? How long has the
vendor been in business?
What is the estimated life of the PC? Of the hard drive? How far
can it be upgraded? In RAM memory? How many expansion slots?
Can the CPU be upgraded? The display and graphics card? What is
the MTBF or mean time between failure of the components such as
the hard drive and printer according to printed manufacturer's
literature?
Does the computer come with ALL the parts you will need such as
monitor and graphics card? On many bare bones systems this is
extra.
Are the accessories from the same manufacturer? Is the item
available for immediate shipment or is a backorder the option of
the moment? When will it be shipped? Has there been a recent
price increase?
Any financing options available from the vendor which offer
advantage over bank or credit card purchase? Leasing options?
Bank financing carried by the vendor? What bank?
Extras included with purchase? Documentation? DOS software? What
version? DOS 5.0 is the latest. Mouse? Software installed on the
hard drive? Is it legal software? Is is commercial software?
Shareware?
Any training classes provided? When? How often. Brush up
training free?
What utilities and extra software comes with the machine? Any
hard drive menu systems or utility software? How is the
documentation? Really good or just whatever the manufacturer had
translated?
What display monitor and card are included (if any)? VGA is
standard. EGA is minimum. CGA and Hercules are the bare minimum.
Are printer cables included with purchase of the printer? Any
spare printer ink cartridges included?
How is the keyboard. Springy and clicky with a tactile feel or
just mushy and so so?
Is the Basic programming language included or is this an extra
cost. Will the manufacturer throw in a software package suitable
for beginners such as Microsoft Works? Is the machine FCC class
B certified (the best) or class A (acceptable)? What is the
interleave on the hard drive (1:1 is fastest)? Is the keyboard
an 84 key type or 101 key type?
Is the computer case metal or plastic? How hard or easy is it to
pop the cover and install new circuit cards? Does the keyboard
plug into the front or back of the machine? The front plug
option is a sometimes more handy. Is the reset and on/off switch
on the front, back or side of the machine? Front is again more
handy. Panel lights on the machine to indicate CPU speed and
hard drive use? Keylock for security? How many copies of the
key? Does your key fit all the computers in the store too?
Does a local computer club/user group buy from the vendor which
might provide personal references who can discuss why they
bought from that vendor?
For those who wish to read published reviews concerning specific
brands of computers, printers, monitors, modems and software:
the most complete resource is PC Magazine published by Ziff-
Davis and available at most libraries and many newsstands. PC
Magazine editors usually select one or two items within a
product classification as their "Editors Choice." The complete
index to both PC Magazine as well as their product review index
is contained in their on-line modem service PC MagNet.
Instructions for reaching PC Magnet by modem are contained in
the Utilities section included within each issue of PC Magazine.
For product reviews of hardware and software you may wish to
download the PC MagNet files PCM.EXE, PCSRCH.EXE and PCM.INF
which are quite large. The files occupy more than 2 Megabytes of
disk space and require about 1.5 hours of somewhat expensive
modem connect time. Alternatively, you can reach the same
index of products on line within PC MagNet by typing GO REVIEWS
which allows you to search the product review database directly.
A larger database of 130 periodicals and their respective
product reviews can be viewed by typing GO COMPLIB from within
PC MagNet. Additional product review sources are suggested on
page 27 of the June 26, 1990 issue of PC Magazine (Vol 9 No 12.)
Page 397 of the same issue contains instructions on reaching and
using PC MagNet by modem.
If you do not have a modem or a friend with that capability, a
low-tech method for reviewing specific computer hardware and
software recommendations is to visit a local library which
contains back issues of PC Magazine. Glance at the magazine
cover for highlights of products reviewed in that issue. If you
work your way from the current issue backwards in time for 6 to
12 months, you should find detailed reviews on the equipment you
are investigating. Many computer clubs maintain a library of PC
Magazine issues and may be a source if your local library does
not subscribe to the magazine.
Yet another way to constructively shop for computer equipment is
to obtain free catalogs which are provided at no charge by
reputable computer vendors and manufacturers. See the listing of
free equipment catalogs contained in the recommended
reading/bibliography section elsewhere on this disk.
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22 BASIC COMMANDMANTS OF COMPUTER CONSUMERISM
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1) Does the computer contain sufficient RAM memory and CPU speed
for the applications you intend to run and how easy is it to add
more memory? A 80286 computer may be fine for word processing,
for example, but a poor choice for extensive desktop publishing.
2) Is the computer FCC approved with an FCC sticker? Class A or
B? Class B is better since it means certified for home use and
theoretically emits less objectionable static radiation.
3) Have you identified the software you will (or might) be
using? Can the machine run that software? Is DOS included with
your machine?
4) As your needs change in time, will the machine expand or
change with those needs?
5) Is the outer case of the computer large enough to accommodate
additional expansion circuit boards? How many?
6) Is the power supply sufficiently large for future expansion?
What is the wattage of the power supply? Is the fan noise low or
NERVE WRACKING?
7) How many and what kind of floppy drives do you need?
8) Is the hard disk (if the machine contains one) certified for
use with the internal controller board which operates it? What
make on the controller card and hard drive?
9) Is the hard disk set with the correct interleave factor?
10) Will your dealer offer superior service after the sale? Who
does the service? Where? Any free training classes?
11) Are all warranties in writing and how do they compare to
other dealers warranties in writing?
12) What kind of monitor will you need and does the video
adapter card inside the computer allow for monitor upgrades and
will it display the software you intend to use?
13) Are you buying the computer or a sales pitch?
14) Are the internal components industry standard? Especially
the floppy and hard drives. What brands?
15) Is the dealer trying to sell you more/less than you need?
16) Have you set a realistic budget?
17) Have you gathered information for all sources such as
friends, magazine reviews, stores and advertisements? Are you
relying on one computer guru from work or, more wisely, several?
18) If the price is far below the average, something is missing.
What is it? Quality of the hard drive, lack of higher resolution
video, toll free telephone support, software such as DOS?
19) Determine the REAL price by extracting hidden additional
shipping charges, credit card surcharges, restocking charge if
item returned.
20) Pay by credit card if possible since if you end in dispute,
your credit card company can go to bat for you and issue a
credit until the dispute is resolved. In addition, many credit
cards automatically double the manufacturer's warranty.
21) Get details in writing. What is the salesperson's name? What
is the exact shipping date? 24 hours? same day? Get it in
writing via FAX. Retain the ORIGINAL AD which promoted the
computer. A paper trail established early is the best
protection. Retain warranty cards long enough to test all
equipment functions first! If you mail in manufacturer's
warranty cards too quickly, you may have to settle for
warranty coverage rather than replacement by the vendor.
22) Retain all original cartons and packing material. Many
vendors ABSOLUTELY require it in case of return!
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MUSCLE FOR COMPUTER CONSUMERS - THE LONG ARM OF THE LAW
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If you are dealing with a mail order supplier, Federal Trade
Commission rules apply! Essentially the vendor must ship the
order within 30 days of receiving it unless the advertisement
states otherwise. If a delay will be experienced in shipment,
the vendor must notify you in writing of a definite new shipment
date and also offer you the chance to cancel the order with full
refund. That notice must include a stamped or self-addressed
envelope or card which allows you to indicate your choice. If
you do not respond, the seller may rightfully assume you accept
the delay. However, the vendor must either ship or cancel the
original order within 30 days after the original shipping date
which was promised.
Any refunds for order cancellation must be made promptly. Even
if you accept an indefinite delay, you have the right to cancel
the original order at any time before the item is shipped. If
you chose to cancel any order, which has been paid by check or
money order, the vendor must mail a refund within seven business
days excluding weekends and holidays.
Likewise if the order was paid for by credit card, the vendor
must credit your account within one business cycle following
your cancellation request. Store credits and other methods or
offers of similar merchandise are NOT acceptable unless you
agree. If the original item is not available, a substitute item,
even if similar, is not acceptable unless the vendor has your
consent. Report violations to the Federal Trade Commission whose
phone number is usually listed in the blue pages (government
section) of your local telephone book. Tell the vendor you are
reporting violations to the FTC and mail the vendor a copy of
the letter you wrote to the FTC. This usually brings action
quickly.
One primary conduit for recourse is the Direct Marketing
Association which maintains an action line for problem
resolution. First you should attempt to deal directly with the
seller, but if a problem is not promptly resolved you may wish
to contact the Mail Order Action Line, c/o DMA, 6 East 43rd
Street, NY, NY 10017.
The first step in any attempt to seek redress from a vendor is
to notify the supplier in writing that the item is defective
and include a copy of the invoice with information as to model,
price, date of order and account number if available. Retain a
copy of your letter seeking refund or replacement. Any phone
calls should be followed by a letter.
Generally do not return the item to the vendor until told how
and when to do so, since many have formal return policies and
require "return authorization numbers" which are usually issued
to you by phone or in writing. The return authorization number
accompanies the defective item on its return. Keep a copy of the
shipping receipt and packing slip. Any rights to recover postal
or shipping costs is determined by the policy of that vendor as
is usually stated in advertising and product literature.
You may also consider contacting the attorney general for the
state in which you live as well as the state in which the vendor
does business. This can be MOST effective especially if you send
a copy of that letter to the vendor. If the product was paid for
with a credit card, you may also retain the right to withhold
payment or cancel payment which is usually arranged directly
with your bank or credit card issuing agency. This is explained
under provisions of the Federal Fair Credit Billing Act.
Tutorial finished. Be sure to order your FOUR BONUS DISKS which
expand this software package with vital tools, updates and
additional tutorial material for laptop users! Send $20.00 to
Seattle Scientific Photography, Department LAP, PO Box 1506,
Mercer Island, WA 98040. Bonus disks shipped promptly! Some
portions of this software package use sections from the larger
PC-Learn tutorial system which you will also receive with your
order. Modifications, custom program versions, site and LAN
licenses of this package for business or corporate use are
possible, contact the author. This software is shareware - an
honor system which means TRY BEFORE YOU BUY. Press escape key to
return to menu.