Digital Photo Tips by Duane Brovan

(Article also posted in the Ridge Rider News)

Tip #16: Put Money Towards New Computer, Not Old Computer

Many people make the mistake of trying to update their old computer instead of putting that money towards a new computer! Within the last three years computers have gotten faster, all running either Windows XP or OS 10 and have come down in price. It is almost as expensive to update your older computer then purchase a new basic computer ($499). What you get with a new computer is one that is designed to operate the latest, larger programs and has the proper connections to connect to the latest devices (i.e. USB1, USB2, Firewire 400/800, DSL, etc.). A new computer will save on repair costs and trying to find components that will allow you to use the latest devices and still work with your older system. When it comes to electronics (computers, digital cameras, cell phones, etc.) the last three years has seen many great changes. How many thought they could afford a digital camera or print photo quality prints from your home, or be able to search the Internet at blazing speed using DSL (Broadband)? Computer manufacturers now days are making their equipment to work with (Broadband) DSL, digital photography, wireless connections at “Cyber-Cafes” and give you visual interactive tutorial and help pages. Will things change even more? Of course, but I don’t see any major changes in the next few years. And when the new changes happen, costs will probably be low compared to your current equipment (more bang for your buck).

A new Basic Computer ($499) should have at least: P-4 compatible 2+GHz possessing chip, 512MB RAM, 64MB video card, 40GB Hard Drive, USB1/USB2 connections, CD-RW (CD Burner) and come with Windows XP. For the typical home computer user this would be all they would need to easily view their digital photos, surf the Net, and run the latest programs. (Monitor not included) These prices are for the computer only and don’t include the cost of a new monitor. Monitors will be discussed next week.

A new Higher End Computer ($1499) should have at least: P-4 3.0+GHz possessing chip, 1GB RAM, 256MB separate color/video card, 160GB Hard Drive, USB1/USB2 connections, DVD-RW/CD-RW (DVD/CD Burner), and come with Window XP. This would be a good computer for a digital photographer, video editor, or for a small business. (Monitor not included)

For a Basic Computer I would purchase it from a local large store (i.e. Office Depot, Circuit City, Costco, etc.) that way if you have questions or problems you can easily talk to somebody. Make sure the store has at least a 10 day satisfaction guarantee, so if you have any problems or are not satisfied with your new computer you can get your money back, or they can give you a new computer. Put the new computer through all its features (work all devices and programs) that way you are sure they work before your satisfaction guarantee runs out! Usually, electronic equipment either works well or it has problems. Don’t put up with any problems in the beginning for it probably means there are other problems just waiting to happen. I have seen people being in a computer twice with the same problem only to later find out a large computer manufacturer sent out thousands of computers with bad “mother boards”. If they have a High End Computer with all the above components you could also purchase it from one of this large stores. But usually they have to be ordered. Save yourself time, money and aggravation by putting your money towards a new computer instead of putting your money into something that won’t work well with the current programs or newer programs and devices that will be coming out. I might give one other word of advise, that is if you are not good with computers or this is your first computer, get help from someone that knows and understands computers. This will give you a great foundation to build upon and minimize headaches and problems. For more information on the digital photo process go to web link: www.duanebrovan.com/digitaltips or go to www.GoShingletown.com and click on the Free Digital Tips Icon. Duane Brovan is available for digital photo consultations and tutoring: Call 474-4041 Email: Duane@DuaneBrovan.com Visit: www.duanebrovan.com/digitaltips.