This
section of Computer Tips is designed to help all users
understand and make better decisions when purchasing
computer hardware, software and computers.
BUYING LOCATIONS
The
buying location can be the first and most costly mistake
made by end-users when purchasing a computer or computer
equipment. We have listed the main types of locations
you will be able to purchase computer equipment or
from and what to look out for. Please select one of
the below locations you plan on purchasing from.
AUCTIONS
Auctions
/ On-line auctions are becoming more popular location
for people to purchase computer equipment because
of the low prices. However there are several things
to watch for when buying through auctions.
Scams
- On-line auctions are now the number one location
where thefts and scams will occur. If at all possible
look at the sellers history or profile. Always remember
if it sounds to be good to true, it probably is.
Piracy
- With the advances in technology it is now possible
for anyone to make their own CDs it is possible that
you may be buying copied software which is illegal.
Ensure that the software you are buying is a authentic
copy, documentation is included with the software,
and the CD does not appear to be burned. Generally
burned CDs will have a unusual color such as green
or gold tint. However it is still possible for someone
to make CDs which can look like an ordinary CD. Another
way of possibly determining if Illegal copy is the
price.
On-line
Auctions - Companies such as E-bay or Yahoo
may provide auctions which other people have the capability
of listing products that they are selling. We recommend
that if you purchase through an an auction that you
only pay by check to prevent possible credit card
fraud. If you need to user your credit card consider
such options as PayPal.
Return
Policy - Ensure that the you verify what
the resellers return policy may be incase the device
is not functioning or is not compatible with your
computer. Extra Note: Generally software cannot be
returned to the place of purchase to help prevent
software piracy.
Warranty
- Verify the warranty on the product insuring that
it is either provided by the manufacture of the product
or the place of purchase.
INTERNET
With
the increase popularity of the Internet it is becoming
easier, faster, and cheaper to buy over the Internet
however pay close attention to what you are buying.
Security
- When buying over the Internet it is generally a
good recommendation to ensure the page you are purchasing
from offers some type of security. When entering your
credit card information look for a small padlock on
your browser toolbar indicating that all information
entered will have additional security helping to prevent
information from being stolen by another entity. If
you do not see this icon in the bottom left or mid
left of your browser its a good possibility the page
does not offer this additional security.
Piracy
- With the advances in technology it is now possible
for anyone to make their own CDs it is possible that
you may be buying copied software which is illegal.
Ensure that the software you are buying is a authentic
copy, documentation is included with the software,
and the the CD does not appear to be burned. Generally
burned CDs will have a unusual color such as green
or gold tint (unfortunately you will not be able to
see the CD until bought). However it is still possible
for someone to make CDs which can look like an ordinary
CD.
Return
Policy - Ensure that the you verify what
the resellers return policy may be incase the device
is not functioning or is not compatible with your
computer. Extra Note: Generally software cannot be
returned to the place of purchase to help prevent
software piracy.
Warranty
- Verify the warranty on the product insuring that
it is either provided by the manufacture of the product
or the place of purchase.
E-mail
receipt - Generally most companies will provide
you with a e-mail confirming that they have received
your order. Keep this e-mail until your product has
arrived.
LOCAL
RETAILER
A
Local Retailer is one of the safest location to buy
computer hardware and software. However issues can
still arise be sure to watch out for the following.
Incorrect
Information - Unfortunately good help can
be hard to find. Its possible for representatives
to give you incorrect or false information either
to help the sell or because they representative may
not know all of the required information. If the sells
rep says that a certain hardware device is capable
of something see if they can demonstrate it to help
certify their claim.
Return
Policy - Ensure that the you verify what
the resellers return policy may be incase the device
is not functioning or is not compatible with your
computer. Extra Note: Generally software cannot be
returned to the place of purchase to help prevent
software piracy.
Warranty
- Verify the warranty on the product insuring that
it is either provided by the manufacture of the product
or the place of purchase.
MAIL
ORDER
Mail
order is sometimes considered an unsafe location to
purchase your computer software and or hardware from.
However taking the correct steps can help prevent
issues from occurring.
Company
information - Ensure that the company provides
a valid phone number. Allowing you to speak directly
with someone if required.
Return
Policy - Ensure that the you verify what
the resellers return policy may be incase the device
is not functioning or is not compatible with your
computer. Extra Note: Generally software cannot be
returned to the place of purchase to help prevent
software piracy.
Company
- Try determining how long the company has been in
business. There have been several mail order companies
which have packed up and left overnight leaving you
without anyone to contact.
Warranty
- Verify the warranty on the product insuring that
it is either provided by the manufacture of the product
or the place of purchase. |
