Internet Story
By Melanie Mendiola

As with a car, for many individuals buying and maintaining a computer is an exciting proposition, yet at the same time it can be daunting, especially for those who do not consider themselves “techies” (or “enthusiasts” in the case of a car). Prior to the popularity of Internet shopping, most computer buyers just bought whatever was hot, new and affordable at the nearest computer store. Today, however, the computer buyer is awash with information resources — online, over the phone (e.g. Dell commercials), and by word of mouth — to help the average Joe choose the appropriate computer for downloading music, editing videos, sharing photos, storing files or whatever one’s online predilections.

According to Larry S. Angeles, service coordinator at Marianas Electronics, local distributor of Apple products, buyers have based their past purchases on “everything from tech specs to the color of their room.” However, he says, “We advise our customers to assess their immediate needs and their plans for the next three to five years so we can provide a solution that can evolve with their changing needs.”

Chu Hsieh, consultant at Dimension Systems offers a similar process to determine the technical features a computer buyer would need. Hsieh advises the following for the average home and business user Note: he is only referring to computers running Microsoft Windows 7.

• Processor: 1.7 gigahertz or higher multi-core processor. Hsieh notes that faster processors come with a higher price tag. “Expect to pay a premium price for newly released higher speed processors,” he says.
• Memory: Minimum 1 gigabyte (for 32-bit) and 2GB (for 64-bit). As a general rule for computers, “more memory is always better.” Hsieh explains the importance of memory when multi-tasking among different applications. “When you open multiple applications and Windows runs out of memory, it will use the hard drive as virtual memory which will slow down your system processing.”
• Hard drive: Choose between a 250GB or larger SATA with 7200RPM or faster.
• Monitor: Choose between either a 17-inch or larger standard or widescreen aspect LCD [Liquid Crystal Display] monitors. Hsieh notes that older cathode ray tube monitors should be avoided.
• Graphic Adapter: Choose between integrated or add-on Video. According to Hsieh, “Most integrated video uses shared memory which is fine for basic users.”
• Optical Disc Burner: CD/DVD burner until Blue-Ray burners become more affordable.
• Audio: Basic integrated sound.
• Keyboard and Mouse
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 was released in late October 2009 (in several versions: 32-bit and 64-bit of Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate). Hsieh recommends Home Premium for non-corporate network use and Professional, Enterprise, or Ultimate for business environments.
  

Beyond technical specifications, another issue concerning computer buyers is energy efficiency. With the Obama administration proposing energy efficiency standards for home water heaters, computers may someday follow suit according to alternative energy publications. Apple touts energy efficiency as one of the most important features of its newest iMac model.

“The operating system can spin down hard drives and activate sleep mode on already energy efficient LED-backlit displays,” says Angeles. “OS X (the latest Apple operating system) even regulates the processor between keystrokes as you type to manage small amounts of power.”

Experts agree that it is a good idea to look for computers that meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star requirements. According to Hsieh, “Standard power supplies tend to range from 65% to 75% efficiency, while more efficient [Energy Star] options can improve efficiency up to 88% at 50% rated load.” Hsieh recommends that owners of older models turn off the system when not in use for extended periods or to set up the computer to automatically go to hibernation, standby or sleep mode within a set time of inactivity. “ Improved efficiency translates into annual energy cost saving,” says Hsieh.

Like a car, a computer often comes with a warranty, which should be looked at carefully prior to purchase, according to Hsieh.

“Computers purchased online usually require the buyer to send the computer back to the manufacturer,” he says. “The buyer will have to pay for shipping, which end up the same as if you purchased the computer at a slightly higher price on Guam and were at least able to service it locally.” Hsieh advises buyers to purchase from vendors that offer at least a one year warranty on parts and labor. If the user plans to use the computer heavily, perhaps for business as well as personal use, it may be worth considering paying additional for a longer warranty.

Unlike cars, there is usually no recommended maintenance schedule for a new computer. To extend the life of one’s computer, experts suggest scheduling a general cleaning once a year to vents and cooling fans. “Like humans, cigarette smoke is not healthy for computers either,” says Angeles. Hsieh adds that once a year, a user should also defrag the system, which usually comes with recommended updates for the computer.

Unlike a new car which can often last well into the next decade, a computer’s lifespan in the business environment is generally three to five years, one reason being that the hardware and support may become difficult to replace or update after that time period. For personal use, however, with proper care, computers can last longer. “Computer hardware today is actually very reliable and rarely fails with the exception of items with moving parts such as hard drives, CD/DVD drives and cooling fans,” Hsieh says. “Everything else is electronic components which can last for years unless you get hit with lightning, [have a] poor power source, let the computer overheat, or expose it to harsh operating environments.” But, when the warranty has expired and the cost of replacement parts and labor exceeds the cost of purchasing a new computer, it is time to replace, the experts agree.