Over your lifetime, you have likely had at least a single desktop computer. But, when it comes down to it, how much do you really know about these devices? If your answer is “not much,” do some homework, and you are sure to be surprised how much help it is. This article will give you some great advice.
Try performing a boot check if your desktop is sluggish. Run “ms config” from your start menu. This program lets you view the different programs that automatically start up when your computer does. Find programs that you rarely use, and set them to not start on boot up. Your system will run quicker once you make this change.
Look at the add-ons when buying a desktop. Some computers have extra accessories available to purchase. Don’t buy any you don’t need. In addition, be aware that you can get a lot of add-ons elsewhere at a lower price. This will cost you an arm and a leg in the end.
Measure how much space you have in the area you plan to locate your desktop computer. The size of the computers will vary between brands and models. Some will be tiny while others will be huge. Measure the space before you start shopping.
Dust the interior of your desktop every week to make sure the fan is working well enough to cool the components and keep it running at maximum efficiency. The external casing is usually easily removed, and then you can simply spray the dust away using a compressed air dispenser or other product made especially for this purpose. Doing so will enable the fan to rotate at its optimum speed, and also keep your computer clean on its interior.
If the software you have is for PC computers and you want a Mac, you purchase Mac Parallels. This software lets you use PC programs on the Mac. You can use any PC program, now! You will, however, have to separately purchase the needed PC operating system that goes with it.
Gamers need to buy specific rigs. To begin with, make sure that the computer is equipped with a high-quality video card, a display with high resolution and a minimum memory of 4 GB. There are also gaming specific controllers and keyboards that can help your game.
Some manufacturers have reduced the paper documentation that is included with computer purchases, so research online to learn everything that you can. Make sure the information online is enough information for you. You should always be able to access software and driver downloads.
Whenever you are in the market for a desktop computer, be sure that the software that accompanies your choice is actually legal. You always should have the key and CD to be sure you won’t end up in legal hot water or aren’t allowed to get later software updates.
Don’t obsess over price drops. Some people start monitoring sales and deals when they are in need of a new computer. However, they don’t make a move because they believe that a better deal can be had if they wait a little longer. Many companies know what type of prices other companies are charging, so the reality is that most discounts will look very much the same as the next discount.
Be very careful about buying a computer that is a low price. You really do get what is paid for. Choose brands you know about and stores you can trust. A price that appears way low is likely a solid clue that things aren’t as they seem. Sometimes these amazing deals are just an advertising ploy.
Original Warranty
Don’t expect an original warranty with the purchase of a used computer. Most computer makers don’t allow the original warranty to transfer over to a second owner. If you determine that you want a used machine, know that warranty coverage will be voided.
Shop smartly when comparing prices. Yes, computers can be very pricey. There are a lot of good deals out there, but you need to know exactly what you need from a computer. Make sure you know what hardware is included. You need to find the right balance between performance and value.
Use an ergonomically correct keyboard with your desktop computer. If you type often or play games a lot, these keyboards can reduce strain on your hands and wrists. These keyboards are designed to cause as little stress to your hands, wrists, and arms as possible.
Be aware of the two common hard drive types when you are making choices for a new computer. HDD drives are standard, but SSDs are newer. The SSD is higher end, more costly and can’t hold as much data, but it has more RPMs.
If you’re buying a used computer, remember that a lot of manufacturers won’t transfer the warranty. This is significant because you will be responsible to get the computer repaired should something go wrong. You will have to decide if this is something you are prepared to take on before buying.
Operating System
Have you taken some time to think about the desktop computer operating system you need? You may like Windows 8 if you already like to use Windows 7. It is important to pick a computer that has the operating system you can make the most of and enjoy using.
If you are worried about how long it’s taking your desktop to start up, check the new models that have SSD drives. These solid state drives have the most commonly used apps, programs, and the operating system installed to boot the computer in juts a few seconds. Be sure you have lots of data back-up, so that you don’t lose the entire computer if the SSD fails.
As the beginning of this article discussed, you have probably been the owner of a desktop computer at one point or another. However, before reading this article you weren’t aware. By using the suggestions from the article, understanding comes easier now at it pertains to these devices.