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How To Buy A Computer

"How can I be sure I'm buying the right computer?" is a question we hear again and again. Most people are over whelmed by the choices, technologies and advice of the "Neighborhood Expert". Here is our alphabetical approach (at least O-V) to make your computer search more productive and enjoyable. After all, a knowledgeable customer will value the service Software To Go provides more than someone who does not know what problems may lurk ahead.

Open Architecture
Many low-end PCs are "Proprietary", that is, their parts are not industry-standard or interchangeable. AVOID ALL PROPRIETARY PCs. For example, the memory from our HP computers can be put into our IBM PCs, the CD drives in our IBM's can be interchanged with the HP's. There are many horror stories about computers which cost a couple hundred less, but replacement parts cost four times that of a standard part.

Performance
The vast majority of PC users do some combination of the five basics of computing:

  • Word Processing
  • Record Keeping
  • Number Crunching
  • Desktop Publishing
  • Communications

These functions rarely need the highest-end PC. Decide on your software first, then use the recommended specifications from the software to help choose your computer.

Quality
Contrary to the way most PC's are advertised, all computers are not created equal. Just as there are differences between a Ferrari,Chevy and an SUV, there are differences in computers. Look past the
specifications to the manufacturer. Is the machine just assembled out of parts (even some brand-name parts are incompatible with each other) or is it designed and tested to function as a whole?

Repair
How will the PC be repaired if there is a problem? If the PC is assembled from parts by a local firm, how will you get service if the firm goes out of business or you move to another city? Always buy PC's manufactured by companies with nationwide service available.

Support
Virtually every PC owner will have some question come up.How will your purchase be supported? At Software To Go were commend that you enjoy your PC and spend time becoming familiar with it before setting down to work. We encourage you to ask us your questions and
we will do our best to assist you. For those questions we cannot answer, we will refer you to those who can. Unlike some of our competition, our staff has been with us an average of five years. We'll remember you when you come in the next time.

Technology
The average PC model is only on the market for six months, major software packages for 18 months. If you purchase the software you require with your computer, your purchase will not be obsolete your needs change. Many who have purchased a PC for accounting, are still using their machines after five or more years.

Use
Do not allow yourself to be overwhelmed by specs and computer terms .If you are not asked what you want to use the PC for, go shop elsewhere!

Value
Just as in everything else, good value does not necessarily mean the cheapest price. APCi s a major investment for most people. Treat your purchase as an investment and choose wisely. Computers are tools, they allow us to expand our knowledge and creativity, they offer entertainment and the ability to common ways never dreamed of in years past. We at Software To Go offers quality computers and software at competitive prices. Let us show you what we have to offer.

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