Buying a laptop computer is harder than many people think.
A laptop is not just a smaller version of a desktop PC but a completely different design model with more things to go wrong and more opportunities for a sneaky salesman to sell you something you don't need.
Before you venture into the high street, ask yourself these important questions:
What do I want to do with a laptop computer that can't be done with a desktop machine?
If the answer is nothing, then go and buy a desktop computer because, in the main, desktop computers are more reliable.
It is generally easier to connect peripheral devices to a desk-top and, most importantly, a desktop computer is far harder to steal.
Do I want to use graphic manipulation software or do anything that may require high-level graphics content?
If the answer is yes, then go and buy a desktop machine and make sure you get a decent monitor with it!
Flat-screen LCD monitors as fitted to laptops are simply not able to handle high-resolution graphics as well as a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor.
Will I want to carry the laptop a long distance?
If the answer is that you need a machine to carry around the world, then go for the lightest and most compact computer you can find.
This will cost you a lot of money but you will consider it well worth the pennies when you discover the airport terminal you need is over a mile away and you have just missed the last airport bus!
Will I merely be moving the laptop computer between the car, the home and the office?
If you don't have to carry the wretched thing far, then you should definitely get a 'desktop replacement' laptop.
This should have an integral modem, floppy drive, zip disk, CD writer and anything else you can think of.
Weight is not an issue so buy a laptop with as much functionality as you can afford.
Do I need to give business presentations with my new laptop?
If you want to give presentations, then get a computer with the largest LCD screen you can afford.
Although many offices now have LCD projectors, your clients will always appreciate a large screen - especially if you need to present in a restaurant or in a small office.
Do I want to access the internet on my new laptop?
Of course you do!
So make sure it comes complete with an onboard modem or PC card modem to allow you to connect to your internet service provider (ISP).
Where you buy your new computer is entirely up to you, but remember that most high street box shifters have no way of repairing your computer if it malfunctions.
They have to send the thing away to be fixed.
This is time-consuming and costly, so don't expect too much from your so-called 'guarantee'.
Remember to check all paperwork before you leave the shop to make sure you really have a guarantee that is worth having and you have not been given a useless piece of paper.
The best deals are almost certainly to be had on the internet.
Most of the major manufacturers have online dealers who can put your dream machine on your desk in 24 hours.
The Dell Computer Corporation are online sales experts but their after-sales service can be a bit flakey on occasions.
Have a look at compaq.com and check out their latest bargains.
Also be sure to visit ibm.com to see the latest ThinkPad range.
Having worked out exactly what you need and how much you should be paying for it, you are in a far better position to approach your local independent computer dealer and start talking about a purchase.
The main thing to remember is you do not have to buy anything unless it is what you really want.
Do not be misled by the sales patter.
Get the facts before you start out!
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