Project: compaq buyers' guide
Section: Third draft
copy, July 11, 2000
Working
Title:
Buying a Computer -- Where Do I Start?
Sound
advice for purchasing your new PC
Table
of Contents
Making Your Decision to Buy a Computer
The Planning Stage
Making the Purchase
Setting Up Your PC
Looking to the Future
In Closing
This booklet is for everyone. Whether you're buying your
first computer and want to know how to e-mail a friend in Vancouver, or an
Internet-savvy, second time buyer who wants to identify the latest computer
technology, we're sure you'll find relevant and useful information here.
While some shoppers might already be comfortable purchasing
the ideal machine for their needs, buying a computer can get confusing if you
don't know the difference between CD-ROM, DVD-ROM and CD-RW, or what it means
to increase your memory. (Trust us, you don't need to be a MensaR member to
increase memory!)
If you take the
time to do a little homework, understand basic principles, know the buzzwords
and ask the right questions, buying your first -- or even fifth -- computer will
be a fun and empowering experience.
Now take a few
minutes to read through this booklet and learn what you need to know to "window
shop" effectively, take control of your purchase, set up your new PC, and know
how to plan for the future.
You might not be a computer expert by the end of Buying a
Computer -- Where do I Start? but you will have all the information
you'll need to make a smart, informed decision. (And maybe get in on the
cocktail chatter you've been left out of these past few years ... Did somebody
say "feeds and speeds?")
Have fun learning!
Why Buy a Computer?
Everyone has a different reason why they want to own a computer.
Perhaps you want to work from home and need a computer to send e-mail to your
colleagues and create professional-looking documents. Maybe you want to create
your own personalized Web site, coordinate your home finances and play computer
games. Or perhaps you want to make sure your children can research their school
projects using the Web.
Then there's the chance you bought your computer years ago
and think it's time for a new and improved one.
Or maybe you are buying a second desktop or notebook computer.
Whatever your reasons, it's important to know what they are
from the beginning so you can plan your computer purchase to match your needs
for now and the years ahead.
Buyer's Tip
Make a list of all the ways you want to use your
computer. Want to bank
online or download large e-mail documents? Plan on editing digital images as
your moonlighting job? Or maybe you just want to print recipes and coordinate
home finances. By knowing that information now, chances
are you'll plan more carefully and be happy with your purchase over the long
haul.
A little attention today could save you from buying too
little computer -- or too much.
Computers
Have Changed!
Gone are the days when the computer was used for creating
simple documents in an office setting. Now they're everywhere -- and for good
reason. They can help us work in ways that were never possible before. They can
help us play in new ways too.
You might want to think about these possibilities when
creating your list of things you want to do with your computer:
•
E-mail
•
Internet banking
•
Internet shopping
•
Research on the Web
•
Home financing
•
Faxing
•
Listen to digital,
world-wide radio
•
Join a chat group
•
Keep your family's
birthdays on an interactive calendar
•
Play music CDs and
DVDs
•
Read e-books
And for the truly adventurous:
•
Day-trade online
•
Participate in
online auctions
•
Design Web pages
•
Photo and video
editing
You should also be aware that
computers can help you in your quest to work from home. Most telecommuters
today use their computer to keep in touch with clients and colleagues. E-mail
ranks up there with voice mail. Web research sure beats lugging books home from
the library. Notebook computers give employees, home-based business owners,
students, parents and grandparents the ability to work anytime and anywhere.
Think about your local airport. Chances are it offers phones
where you can plug in your notebook's modem to send and receive e-mail and surf
the Web while on the run.
But remember: "Work anytime, anywhere" shouldn't mean "work
all the time, everywhere." When you finally do buy your computer, you may be
tempted to use it day and night.
Yes, learning to use your computer
is a lot of fun, but remember to keep your perspective!
Buyer's
Tip
Try
to think about your lifestyle within the next two or three years when buying
your computer. If you plan to work from home, for example, chances are you'll
need a fast modem and a little more hard drive space to accommodate all the
extra activity.
How
Much Computer Do You Need?
With all the exciting things you can do with computers, it's
easy to get sidetracked when trying to decide how much computer you'll actually
use. Do you really need that DVD player if you have no intention of watching
movies or videos on your PC? Will you really run out and buy a digital camera
to take photos of your son's wedding and then place them on the Web?
We all have grand ideas, but we don't always have the time
to follow them through.
Or perhaps you're sitting at the opposite side of the
spectrum and think you'll only need a bare-bones computer because you think
you'll just use it to type letters to your mother. Think carefully before
buying a very low-end model, however. You could find -- very quickly -- that
you'll actually want to do a lot more with it.
And don't forget to consider how many people will be using
the computer. More users mean you'll need a more robust machine.
Use our simple chart to make quick decisions when
considering how much computer you want and need.
If You Want To... You'll
Need...
|
Work
Hard:
Create a report, flyer, ad or school project. |
Word
Processing:
Software such as Word or WordPerfect (or desktop publishing software such as
Quark or Publisher for high-end layout), scanner and printer. |
Be Entertained: Play
games, watch DVD-movies, download MP3 music files, retouch photos and edit
videos.
|
Multimedia: CD-ROM drive, CD-RW or DVD-ROM
drive, speakers, sound card, modem or high speed telephone or cable access,
video and photo editing software, scanner and lots of memory. |
Be 'Net Savvy: Use the
Internet to e-mail friends, surf the 'Net, download video and music, and buy
goods and services online.
|
Internet
Access:
Modem or high-speed telephone or cable access, sound card, speakers and
service connection |
Stay Secure: Keep your
computer bug-free.
|
Germ
Killer:
Anti virus protection software and modem or high-speed telephone or cable
access (for updates). |
Doing
Your Homework
So now that you know how you want to use your computer, it's
time to look at what exactly a computer is. Knowing that information will make
you that much better equipped to choose the right computer for your needs. Look
for:
Basically your computer's operating system is the
environment the computer uses to perform tasks -- think Windows, MS DOS or the Macintosh
operating system and you've got the right idea.
Remember that companies like Microsoft upgrade their
operating systems nearly every year. That does not mean you have to upgrade
your computer every year too, however. Chances are your computer will run just
as well, if not better, on an older system especially as your computer ages.
There's nothing more frustrating than installing the newest version of Windows,
for example, only to discover you don't have enough hard drive space or memory
to launch the system properly.
Buy the latest
version of your chosen operating system so it will last you for at least three
years.
Compaq
Advantage: Compaq Presario
PCs come with Microsoft's latest operating systems so you don't have to buy
them separately.
We also call microprocessor speed, "clock speed." This term
simply refers to how fast your computer can handle an instruction.
Clock speed is measured in megahertz (MHz) -- such as 800 MHz
and so on. It's derived from the processor -- much like an engine of a vehicle,
because of its power and because most other components can't function without
it.
And don't forget that if
you want to use your computer for high-end applications such as playing
computer games or video editing you'll want a fast, powerful processor. It
might cost you a little extra, but the added performance it provides may
significantly improve the applications you'll be running.
This is the storage device inside your computer where
information is permanently stored. You can add or attach a new hard drive
should you need additional data storage space later. Hard Drive space is
measured in gigabytes (GB).
RAM (Random Access Memory) is where the computer temporarily
stores the information that it's working on. When you open a file or launch an
application you "bring forward" information from the hard drive, from a disk,
or other storage device to RAM (memory). When you complete your task, the
information is returned to storage by saving it.
The more RAM you have, the faster you'll be able to work and
the more applications you'll be able to have running at one time. RAM is
measured in megabytes (MB). For example, 32 MB, 64 MB, 96 MB, 128 MB and so on.
Having enough memory for
your needs is very important. And trust us, you'll know when you
need more memory! Your computer speed will slow down to a crawl and you might
even hear an annoying "hammering" noise. The good news is adding more RAM isn't difficult or very expensive.
You computer's cache is a little bit of memory that the
processor keeps on board to access information very quickly. The cache is used
for anything the processor needs to "look" at often. It's like keeping some
money in your wallet instead of going to the bank every time you need $5 for
lunch.
Cache sizes starts from 128 kilobytes (KB).
You can't have too
much clock speed, hard drive space or memory so get as much as you can for your
money. You'll be happy you did.
Although it has been around since the 70s, in the last few
short years, the Internet has taken the world by storm. Did you know half of
all Canadians have surfed the Net at least once in the last year? That number
is growing all the time.
So what exactly is the Internet? The Internet is nothing
more than the world's largest network of computers -- much like the telephone is
the world's largest network of voice communications devices. When you get
online, you're accessing millions upon millions of other computers all around
the globe and all the information they contain.
A lot of people
mistakenly call the Internet, the "Web." Actually, the two words are not
interchangeable. Web sites are only one element of the Internet. There are also
other components: e-mail, electronic bulletin board systems and chat groups.
Most people who want to access the Internet need it for
e-mail and for surfing the Web.
E-mail. Once you're online, you'll want to
find an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that you either dial up using your
telephone line, or via cable. You'll then have an opportunity to assign
yourself an e-mail address -- let's say john@somethingorother.com.
Once you have the address, you can send electronic mail to family members,
friends and business associates who also have e-mail addresses. You can mail
text, entire files, pictures, video, sound or anything else you think they may
need.
The
Web. The
Worldwide Web, as it used to be called, is one of the major forces of our time.
An incredible amount of information is literally at our fingertips 24 hours a
day, seven days a week. Want to know the date the first Charlie Brown cartoon
strip ran in the newspaper? You can use one of the many search engines out
there, such as AltaVista, Excite, Yahoo or MSN, to look for information on that
subject. (By the way, the date was October 2, 1950. How do we know? We searched
the Web, of course!)
Compaq
Advantage:
The
Compaq Presario family of PCs all comes with built-in, high-quality modems.
Plus every Presario comes with a limited free trial membership to select
Internet providers. You also get Internet specific buttons and a Setup Wizard.
Getting on the 'Net has never been easier or faster.
The Internet is a complex topic -- but not necessarily a
complicated one. In other words, you can take advantage of the 'Net without
really understanding why or how it works. Trust us on this, you'll be amazed
how quickly you catch on. After all, you probably know a few young children who
love to surf the Internet. If they can do it, so can you.
For more information about the Internet,
read the annual Canadian Internet New User's Handbook, by Jim Carroll and
Rick Broadhead. It will walk you through the basics and more advanced topics.
A modem provides you with the ability to dial into, or
access, the Internet and send and receive faxes. In other words it's a device
that allows your computer to connect with phone or cable lines. Some people opt
for high-speed access that lets them upload and download material much faster
than simply dialing a regular telephone line. Modems can be external, but most
people prefer a tidy desk and have their modem built in.
Look for a fast modem. Anything 56 Kbps or higher is a good
bet.
The software for a
modem lets you receive and send e-mail, surf the Web, fax and phone.
If you look closely at a monitor or TV screen, you'll see
that it's divided into many tiny "dots," called pixels. The quality of the
picture depends on dot-pitch or dpi (dots per inch). The more dots per inch,
the higher the resolution.
Monitors are usually sold separately and come in many sizes
and shapes, but for most needs, a screen size of 17'' is fine. Size is measured
diagonally, while the VIA refers to the Viewable Image Area.
Larger monitors are ideal for graphics, architectural and
engineering applications.
If you have more money to spend and want a monitor you can
use for years (and why not? A monitor can't be upgraded later), look into a
flat panel LCD (liquid crystal display) screen. These screens are not as hard
on your eyes. Also, a flat panel takes up less room on your desk and has a
smaller "footprint" -- the base on which the monitor sits. If space is a concern
-- but money isn't -- a LCD monitor might be right for you.
Form factor is the term used to describe the overall design
of your PC. Think you'll be using the computer in one room, such as a home
office? Then you'll probably want a desktop PC.
Or perhaps you think you'll be racing around the country (or
maybe the city) working while on the go. If that's the case, it's probably a
good idea to look into a notebook computer that you can take with you.
When
shopping for a notebook, look for a design that lets you remove some of your
drives. Don't need that CD-ROM drive for the meeting? Leave it behind. No use
carrying around extra weight if you don't need to.
Multimedia gives you the power to unleash your imagination.
It is the computer's ability to combine different forms of media -- sound,
video, animation, photographs and colour graphics.
Multimedia enables you to see, hear and download still or
video pictures, sounds or anything else you can find. Want to build your own
city using a computer game? You can. In full colour too. Want to download an
MP3 song from the Internet? You can do that too. How about editing a home
video? With the right software, ditto.
If you plan to use
multimedia often, buy good speakers now. They'll definitely enhance your
enjoyment of your computer with little expense.
Compaq
Presario monitors come with high quality speakers built in.
One concern we hear from a lot of customers is that they're
afraid their new computer will be obsolete almost as soon as they set it up. To
deter that from happening, it's smart to look to the future when buying a
computer. In other words, look for ways to expand later.
The way to do that is by purchasing a computer with a number
of expansion slots and bays that the computer has built into it. Expansion
"cards" can be easily plugged or slotted into the expansion slots to enhance
graphics, sound quality and other functions. Bays allow you to easily attach
additional, internal drives such as hard drives, CD-ROM, CD-RW or DVD-ROM
drives if you need more computing power.
Notebooks are slightly different right now, although those
differences are diminishing all the time. Think about notebooks and you'll
probably say their main advantage is mobility, but look closer at what else
they offer. Recent notebooks give you power and performance comparable to your
desktop. Some play DVDs and offer superb graphic and sound quality. They'll
last you for years.
If you worry you won't remember all the different computer
components listed on the previous pages, use our "Cheat Sheet" that will give
you the basics quickly. You might want to cut it out and refer to it when you
buy your computer.
Cache: minute amount of memory used for
anything the processor needs to "look" at often
Clock
speed: how
fast your computer can handle an instruction
E-mail: electronic mail sent using the
Internet
Hard
drive: the
storage device inside your computer where information is permanently stored
Internet: the network that connects computers
around the world
Memory: RAM (Random Access Memory) is where
the computer temporarily stores the information that it's working on
Microprocessor
Speed: We
also call microprocessor speed, "clock speed." This term simply refers to how
fast your computer can handle an instruction
Modem: device used to "dial up" your
server. Look for 56Kbps or better so it's fast enough for your needs
Operating
System: your
computer's operating system is the environment the computer uses to perform
tasks
Web: the Worldwide Web on the Internet
You've done your homework, know the ins and outs of all the
"feeds and speeds" (facts and figures) and think you have a pretty good idea
how much computer you need. The next step? Purchase your new PC.
But before you step through the door of an authorized
reseller (someone who sells computers that the manufacturer has approved for
being knowledgeable and trustworthy), or buy direct from a manufacturer by
going online or calling a customer service representative, remember the golden
rule: You
are the buyer -- you call the shots.
Compaq
Advantage: Want to save time
purchasing your PC? Compaq offers a buy-direct service that lets you purchase a
computer without ever leaving your home. Or if you want to go the traditional
route, Compaq deals with many of the most popular resellers in the country.
And because you've done your homework, you'll be much less
intimidated by a salesperson who tries to get you to buy components you won't
use. You know the terminology and that will show when you walk into a store or
get on the phone with a customer sales rep.
Still, you'll want to ask some questions when you meet the
salesperson of course. And feel free to ask the salesperson to explain a term
or concept if you're unsure what it means. When buying a computer, ignorance is
not bliss.
And remember to take your time. There is no rush. If you're
not happy with what you see, visit another reseller or shop at another Web
site. Again, there's no rush.
One last thing. Don't forget the value of a name brand
computer. Why? Trust. You will probably use your computer quite often. If you
trust its maker, you'll rest assured knowing your new computer comes from a
professional company with extensive resources.
Compaq
Advantage: Compaq Presario
PCs follow the industry standard. That means they're high quality computers
that are expandable for years of service and enjoyment.
Knowing what you're
actually buying is important when purchasing a computer. A price that seems
very attractive on the feeds and speeds level may not be as attractive when you
find out what is actually included -- or more importantly, excluded.
Ask if the monitor is included in the computer price.
Often it's not. If it is, be sure the size and quality is suitable to your
needs. If it isn't, you might be better off buying a monitor separately.
Compaq
Advantage:
Compaq itself
manufactures Compaq Presario monitors. Not only do they come with high-quality
amplified speakers, but they feature better resolution and on screen display.
Find out if the modem is included, and if so, how fast it
is. With all the high-resolution graphics being downloaded off the Internet
these days, it just doesn't make sense to have a modem less than a 56Kbps
speed.
It's also important to know what software is included in the
purchase price. These days, most computers come "bundled" with a number of
software packages. But check out what you're getting. The criteria you should
be looking for is quality -- not quantity. Ask yourself what you'll use and what
will collect dust.
Does your computer bundle come with a printer? Probably not, but
some do. And remember that a printer is like a monitor. You can't upgrade it
without buying a new one, so choose carefully. If your computer bundle comes
with a printer, make sure it's the right one for your needs.
The most popular
printers right now are laser and ink jet. Ink jet printers print in black and
white or colour and are good for home use or even for your smaller home office
needs. Laser printers produce higher quality printouts and are ideal for both
small and large businesses.
There is a large difference in price among printers so
decide what you need first and shop around.
Ask
for a complete demonstration of the printer's capabilities before you buy. Make
sure the printout is clear and clean -- in all colour combinations.
Does your printer come with cables? You would be
surprised. Most don't. Make sure you buy the cables you'll need before leaving
the store or Web-based e-store. It will save you the hassle of running out and
buying them in a panic when you go to set up your printer at home.
Don't forget the extras: Mouse pad, power bar, keyboard and
speakers.
A quick word about price. There are a number of ways to pay
for your new computer. Of course there's cash, cheque and credit card, but did
you know there's often financing too? Ask your salesperson or customer service
representative about this option if you're considering going this route.
In many ways the length of a warranty isn't nearly as
important as who stands behind it. After all, it's easy to make promises if you
won't be around to keep them. Brand name manufacturers generally have extensive
service and technical support networks and comprehensive warranties.
The best way to
know what the warranty includes is to study it and compare the fine print.
Compare features and if a computer doesn't provide a level of reassurance
you're comfortable with, keep looking.
When you're looking at your warranty, keep in mind that
parts and
service are not always included in the warranty. Your parts might be
included, but you might still have to pay for the labour.
Another important point: Warranties do not cover fiscal
losses if a computer crashes and data goes missing. It is up to you to backup
your computer often.
Extended warranties are another kind of warranty you might
be asked to buy. It's up to you, but please consider extended warranties
carefully. Sometimes an extended warranty will cover everything the main
warranty does, but not much more. Always compare the two warranties and make
sure you're buying them from a reputable source -- an authorized reseller, for
example.
Compaq
Advantage:
You
can also buy an extended warranty directly from Compaq. Our CarePaq portfolio
of packaged services provides customers with an "easy-to-buy,
easy-to-use" option of extending and enhancing warranty coverage on Compaq
hardware -- all at an affordable price.
We've printed our list of things to ask the salesperson in
this easy-to-read cutout page so you'll remember everything you want to know
while making up your mind.
1. How much does this computer cost?
2. What is the hard drive space? How
much will it cost to add on later?
3. How much memory does it have? How
much can this computer accept?
4. How fast is the processor? Can it be
upgraded?
5. Is the monitor included? What is the
resolution?
6. Is a printer included? What kind is
it? What is the dpi?
7. Does it come with software? What
kind?
8. How about the warranty? What does it
include?
9. How much service and support do I
get? How long does it last? Is labour included?
10. What does it have in the way of
multimedia? Speakers? Sound card?
Now that you've brought your computer home from the store --
or if you bought it off the Internet and it has been delivered -- it's time to
rev it up and start working!
But slow down. There are still a number of things to think
about before setting up your PC.
First question: Where will you put it? When deciding where
you'll set up your computer think of looking for an area of your home that is
quiet, but accessible if possible. Think about good lighting that you can turn
away from the computer so there isn't a glare at night.
You'll probably also want to set your computer up close to a
phone outlet to eliminate wires running through the house -- or you might want
to pay someone to run phone wires inconspicuously to the computer.
If you're planning on using the Internet often, you might
want to consider installing a second phone line for the modem so when people
try to call you they're not faced with a busy signal. Or if you're thinking
about ordering high-speed Internet access, such as cable, make sure your house
or apartment can handle such technology first before buying your computer.
But most importantly, when setting up your computer, READ
THE INSTRUCTIONS! You would be surprised how many of us forget to simply read
all the instructions before ripping open the boxes. Yes, buying a computer is exciting and you'll want to get
started right away, but take a deep breath, make some tea and take the time to
read.
And be patient. It can take upwards of a few hours to get
the computer up and running. Beyond the physical set up, loading software takes
time.
Compaq
Advantage:
Compaq Presario
computers are both easy and quick to set up. They've even got colour-coded
cables to keep you on track.
You've probably heard the word, "ergonomics" in the past few
years. Despite its fancy sounding name, it simply refers to how your body
reacts to work. Do you plan to sit at your computer for hours at a time?
Knowing more about ergonomics is definitely a good idea for you.
The main complaint people have about computers is after
spending a long time with them, they start to feel sore in different parts of
their body. Eyestrain, muscular discomfort, tender back, shoulders and neck,
and numbness in hands and arms all indicate that the person is not sitting
and/or working well.
In other words, a keyboard is not the problem, but using it
incorrectly is.
The rules are:
•
If nothing else, buy a comfortable, adjustable chair. When standing in
front of it, the seat should be just below your kneecaps.
•
Have adjustable work surfaces for
keyboarding and clerical work.
•
Set your monitor back if you can. The optimal distance from screen to
eyes is 30''.
•
Have a logical arrangement of all related items (books, binders, files,
disks, telephone, printer, etc.) so you won't have to twist your back when
reaching for them.
•
Have proper lighting and eliminate glare and reflections by turning
lighting away from the screen.
•
Get up and stretch every 15 minutes. You can download programs off the
Internet that will remind you when your 15 minutes are up.
Compaq Advantage
Compaq devotes a great deal of time and effort to the ergonomics of
their PCs, ensuring that they are as comfortable and as easy to use as
possible.
So you've read all the instructions carefully and followed
them, but are still having difficulties setting up your computer.... Or, it's a
few months later and right before you're ready to print an important document,
you experience a glitch. Don't panic!
There are a number of things you can do to rectify the
problem.
First things first, if you're having a problem turning your
computer on, check the outlet and the light on your power bar. If it's out, you
might have blown a fuse, or the power bar has malfunctioned.
If your computer is frozen, nine times out of 10, if you
restart your computer -- simply turn it off and then back on -- the problem will
correct itself. Another solution might be checking the cables. Maybe one is
loose.
Sometimes you can also find the way to fix your computer's
problem by logging on to the Net and finding a program that can be downloaded
onto your computer. Perhaps you're trying to upload a Web site and you don't
have the required software to run it properly. By downloading the relevant
software, you could be up and running in as little as a few minutes.
Compaq
Advantage:
Each
Compaq support software program on the Web and CD Kit is packaged in a
compressed file called a "SoftPaq." As new versions of software are
released, you can go to the Compaq Web site (or the latest release of the CD)
to obtain the SoftPaqs needed to update your computer.
Another reason why you might be having computer problems?
Viruses. A virus is a small computer program that your computer has picked up
from either a contaminated disc or Internet file. Always make sure you have
virus protection. If your computer does not come with the software, run, don't
walk, and buy it yourself.
Compaq
computers come with anti-virus protection to give you peace of mind.
If all else fails and you can't fix the problem yourself,
call your computer company's technical support. You'd be amazed at just how
many problems and glitches can be corrected by a qualified, properly trained
technician over the phone.
Just one more reason to buy a name brand computer. Without
that company's support, you're on your own if bad things happen to your
computer.
Compaq
Advantage:
Compaq
offers a toll-free support hotline at 1-800-OK-Compaq that operates 24/7 to
answer questions and offer advice during your warranty period.
One of the most common reasons for postponing the decision
to buy a computer is the fear of obsolescence.
Yes, technology is advancing at a rapid pace, but if you buy
carefully and think about what you'll want to use your computer for in the
future, obsolescence will not be a problem. Despite what a lot of cynics say,
your computer can last you for years.
Don't worry when a company that made your computer
introduces a range of new models -- yours will still do what you bought it to do
-- now, and in the future.
Looking at
software, most reputable software manufacturers will provide you with upgrade
packages as they advance and refine their products. And remember, as we
mentioned before, a new version is not always the best version for your needs.
Make
sure you fill out the registration cards that come with the software and
hardware programs so you'll receive update information -- and in many cases,
low-cost upgrades.
Another way to keep obsolescence at bay is by purchasing an
easily upgradeable computer. Always ask if your computer's processor can be
replaced with a faster one later on, for instance. Not all can.
Of course you can upgrade hard drives and have more memory
by adding more later, but remember that if you're going to upgrade anything,
talk to a professional technician first to find out if there will be any
problems or issues. Of course if your computer follows the industry standard,
compatibility issues will be minimal.
Compaq
Advantage:
Compaq
computers are now becoming so easy to upgrade and fix, there's a good chance
you'll be able to do it on your own. How is that possible? They're the industry
standard so compatibility problems are insignificant.
Computer components you can't upgrade -- unless you want to
buy an entirely new one -- include: Monitors, printers, speakers, DVD-players
and CD-RW players. Buy the best ones you can afford from the beginning and
you'll be able to use them for years.
Here are some tips that we're sure will help you from the
day you plug in your computer. Nothing in this list is hard to follow, but in
some cases you'll want to be diligent.
1. Back up your work often.
2. Save your work every few minutes.
3. Stay virus free by updating your
virus protection every few months.
4. Do not download strange -- possibly
virus ridden -- e-mail attachments. If you don't trust the source of the e-mail,
trash the file.
5. Keep dust and dirt away from your
computer and discs. Keep discs in protective cases and wipe down your computer
with a clean, soft cloth from time to time.
6. Don't keep floppy discs near
speakers or on top of the monitor. The magnets in the machine can erase all the
information on the disc.
7. Empty the trash or recycle bin at
least once a week.
8. Buy a proper chair and wrist pad.
9. If your computer crashes, turn it
off, then turn it back on. It will probably solve the problem.
10. Always shut down Windows properly.
Buying a computer is one of the most exciting purchases
you're going to make because there are so many ways you'll be able to use it.
The world of computers is enormous fun, incredibly useful, highly educational
and filled with the potential to make it so much easier for you to do so much
more in so much less time.
And now that the
Internet is so entwined with other computer functions, the arms of your
computer can reach out further than ever before. Want to write a one-page note
to a friend in South Africa? You can! Want to listen to a radio station in
Australia? Why not! How about play a casino slot machine without leaving your
office -- or losing a dime? You can do that too.
Computers are truly amazing and they're becoming more
impressive every day.
While you're
probably not an expert now that you've read this booklet, we sincerely hope
you've learned enough about computers to make a confident, informed decision
when finding a computer that meets your needs.
Don't forget to shop carefully, ask plenty of questions, do
your homework and take your time. It's your dollar and you'll be living with
your computer for years. You're entitled to take as long as you like and have
all your questions answered -- and that's why Compaq created this guide. We want
to be sure you're completely comfortable with your choice -- no matter what
computer you decide to buy.
Back Cover:
For more information about Compaq computers -- or even to buy
one -- feel free to check out The Compaq Store on our Web site at: www.compaq.ca
Good luck buying your computer!
BAUD
Used to refer to the speed of a modem. Another term is bps.
BIT
Binary digit. A single "switch" inside the
computer, which is either a one or a zero. Millions of these tiny
"switches" are the basis for all memory and information storage
functions.
BOOT
Turning on your computer is called "booting" it
up. When you shut down and re-start immediately you're "re-booting."
BPS
Bits per second. The speed that your computer can
communicate (via its modem) with another. Modem rates of speed are measured in
thousands of bps (kbps) or millions (Mbps).
BYTE
Eight bits. A byte is one character (often a letter of the
alphabet) stored in the computer, or one unit of information. Memory on
computers is typically measured in millions of bytes, megabytes (MB). Storage
devices such as disk drives are also often measured in billions of bytes, gigabytes
(GB). Smaller information devices like cache memory are usually quoted in
thousands of bytes, kilobytes (kB).
CABLE-MODEM
A type of modem that uses TV cable service rather than phone
lines for access to the Internet.
CACHE
A specialized type of buffer, cache improves performance by
storing a copy of information that is likely to be re-used, rather than having
the computer read from the disk drive or other slower devices every time. It's
like carrying money in your wallet instead of going to the bank each time you
need $5.
CD-R
CD Recordable. These are special computer "CD-ROM"
disks that are initially blank, but can be recorded or "burned" with
information and then function as CD-ROM's. They cannot be erased or
re-recorded.
CD-ROM
ROM means, "read only memory." It's a name used to refer to
disks and the drives that read them. CD-ROMs are similar to Compact Discs but
hold computer information rather than music.
CD-RW
CD Re-Recordable Writable. Special computer
"CD-ROM" disks that are re-recordable as well as writable. (Strictly
speaking, because they can be written to and re-recorded, they are not ROM's.)
Note that CD-R and CD-RW use different types of blank CDs.
CLOCK-SPEED
The measure of how fast a computer can "think" via
its microprocessor. This speed is measured in megahertz (MHz) or millions of
cycles per second.
COOKIE
A small file of information about your Internet session that
is kept on your computer. Cookies are used so that the Internet site knows who
is viewing a certain page. For instance, a banking web site might use a cookie
so that transactions are tied to your account and other users' transactions are
kept separate.
CPU
Central processing unit. Also known as the microprocessor,
this is the "brain" of the computer and located on the computer's
motherboard.
DIAL-UP
A service by which a computer can "dial" via a
phone line to connect to other computers on the Internet or other private
computer networks.
DOWNLOADING
Retrieving information from another computer onto the local
computer. Any information received from the Internet is downloaded to your
computer for you to view.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line. A special high-speed Internet
connection over existing phone lines that does not tie up telephone
communications. Special hardware and telephone service are required.
DVD-ROM
Digital VideoDisc Read Only Memory. Similar to a CD-ROM, it
uses DVD technology to pack up to 25 times the information found on a CD-ROM.
DVD-ROM drives can also play DVD movies and other high quality multimedia.
E-MAIL
A system for sending text messages and other information to
other users via the Internet. E-mail is also often the term used for the
messages themselves.
EXPANSION SLOT / PCI EXPANSION SLOT / ISA EXPANSION SLOT
A connector inside the computer that allows you or a
technician to plug in an additional card such as a modem or network adapter.
The older ISA slot is gradually being phased out in favour of the newer PCI
slot that often allows "Plug and Play" automatic detection and setup
by the computer.
FEEDS AND SPEEDS
The technical facts pertaining to the PC, such as hard drive
capacity, microprocessor speeds, amount of memory, etc.
GIGABYTE (GB)
One billion bytes -- or 1000MB (megabytes).
HARD DRIVE
This is the storage device inside your computer that holds
all the information in the computer. (It is termed "hard" because the
disks inside it are rigid, as opposed to the small removable plastic disks that
have a "floppy" magnetic tape-like disk inside them.)
ICON
A small picture on your screen that represents a program or
a document.
INTERNET
The world's collection of computers linked together through
networks and phone lines.
ISDN
A special dedicated high-speed line, similar to a phone
line, for Internet connection with no dial-up delay.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. A company providing dial-up or
network access to the Internet. E-mail and Web site hosting are other popular
services of ISP's.
KBPS
Kilo-bps. Thousands of bits per second.
KILOBYTE
One thousand bytes. Abbreviated as lowercase "k"
or "kB."
LAPTOP
A small, portable computer, also referred to as a notebook.
MEGABYTE
One million bytes. Abbreviated as uppercase "M" or
"MB."
MEGAHERTZ
The unit of measurement of the speed of the microprocessor
(also called Clock Speed). Literally one million cycles per second.
MICROPROCESSOR
Also called the processor or CPU. The "engine" of
the computer that controls all parts of the computer and performs all
calculations.
MODEM
A device that allows computers to communicate over standard
phone lines, and in some cases TV cable lines.
MOTHERBOARD
The computer's main circuit board located in the system
unit. It houses the microprocessor, memory and other essential components.
MOUSE
A pointing device that allows you to control the pointing
arrow on the monitor screen, and click or drag items on the computer
"desktop" quickly and easily.
MP3
A computer file format that compresses audio files much
smaller than formally needed for CD-quality recordings. This technology means
music can be quick transferred over the Internet in a fraction of the time that
it used to take.
MULTIMEDIA
The term used to describe content usually involving
pictures, sound and video. It generally implies the presence of a CD-ROM or
DVD-ROM and sound capability.
NETWORK
A number of computers and devices linked together. Networked
computers can share printers, server resources and information.
OPERATING SYSTEM
The main software program that runs the computer. Popular
operating systems (OS's) include Windows, Mac OS and UNIX.
PIXEL
The tiny "dots" or "squares" that a
monitor screen is divided into are pixels. The resolution of a monitor is
measured by the number of pixels or dots per inch (dpi). Higher resolution
implies a better quality monitor.
PORT
The "receptacles" at the back of the system unit
that allow you to plug in peripherals such as a printer, mouse and so on.
PROCESSOR
See microprocessor.
RAM
Random Access Memory. The main type of memory storage in a
PC that can be written to or read from. The loose term, "memory" of a
computer refers to its RAM.
ROM
Read Only Memory. A special type of memory that cannot be
changed, written or deleted, in the way a CD-ROM cannot be overwritten.
SOFTWARE
The vast collection of programs that make a computer run,
whether applications, games or the operating system. The software controls the
hardware (physical part of the machine) and makes it run.
SOUND CARD
An expansion card that allows or computer to play music,
speech, or other sounds. A necessary part of multimedia.
SVGA
The standard video format for computers and computer
monitors. It is an expansion of the older VGA format.
VIA
Visible Image Area. Measured diagonally along the actual
monitor screen, not along the whole monitor, i.e. a 15" monitor may have a
13.5" VIA.
VIRUS
An often tiny program capable of wreaking havoc on a
computer's programs, memory and/or hard drive. Viruses are usually designed to
propagate from one computer to another through floppy disks, a network or the
Internet.