Refurbished Computer Guide - Part 2

Getting the most for your money

Ok, you’ve been digging around for refurbished computers. And you've managed to find some IBM refurbished laptops, a few used Dell desktops, and some other name-brand cheap computers. But finding bargains in refurbished computers is more than just a cheap price on a system with the word Pentium attached!

It's common sense … a cheap price isn’t the best value unless the PC also does what you need it to do, and is reliable. So let me point you in the right direction.

Where To Buy Refurbished Computers

Considering the auction sites? They offer some really cheap computers, but it's risky to buy a used PC from an individual. Are you really sure there aren’t used parts in those “like new” PCs? And what kind of warranty will you get?

Stick with major brands and suppliers – companies that have proven their equipment and service reliability. You’ll also find that parts for older refurbished computers and certified repairs are more readily available. Remember that supplier reliability is as important as the equipment itself.

Here’s what to look for:
• Stability and length of time in business.
• Availability of service and support.
• A companies attitude towards it’s customers.
• Warranty terms and Return policy.

What You Can Expect to Pay For Good Refurbished Computers

Of course you want the best deal, but unless you’re looking only for cheap computers and willing to take much more risk, avoid “too-good-to-be-true” deals. Buy the best you can afford - even if you're on a tight budget - and then upgrade components later if you have the need.

Refurbished computers can be grouped into three categories:

• Cheap Computers: Priced under R900 for desktops and R2000 for laptops, these are true cheap computers. But it’s a matter of age and lack of frills, not performance or speed for that matter. Generally low end Pentium 3 processors (450Mhz-500Hhz), with small hard drives (Below 10Gb).
• Mid Level: Priced from R900 – R1500, these are solid all-purpose systems typically have Pentium 3 processors and decent sized hard drives (10Gb and above). They can run the most recent operating systems and are great for all but the most intense games and programs.
• High Performance: Refurbished computers in this group will be over R1500, with more recent technology (Pentium 4), and plenty of hard drive space (20Gb and above). These machines are generally under two years old, and have been recovered from a corporate environment.

1. Know What You Want To Do – Consider your real needs now and 12 months out. Older PCs are upgradeable, but there are limits to any design so do some planning. Refurbished laptops are more difficult to upgrade, and some of the cheapest computers may not be worth upgrading. So add growing room by getting a bit more power and storage than you think you need.
2. Choose The Operating System and Software – Many mistakenly put Step 3 first. The CPU is not “the brains” - the OS and software drive your CPU and hardware, not the reverse. Software does the ‘thinking’, and hardware carries out the instructions. So pick the software you need first.
3. Match The Hardware To The Software - Many cheap computers are sold without an Operating System. So use what you already have, or buy it new with full documentation. Don’t cut costs by buying the “minimum hardware requirements” on the software box. Crank it up a notch, and you’ll be much happier for only a few Rands more.
4. Pay Attention To Service and Support - Unless you do your own tinkering, the warranty, tech support, and return policies are not to be ignored.
5. Do It ! - The stock of refurbished computers is very limited. Even a large dealer may have only a few in stock. So don’t wait. If it does what you want, and has what you need, get it.
   

More to follow soon..........................................