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This page contains answers to common questions handled by our support staff, along with some tips and tricks that we have found useful, and presented here as questions.
If you are unable to find the answer to your query on this page, please contact our Help Desk either by e-mail or by phone (01306 730300).
Q. Where is the best place to buy a computer?
A. When considering where to buy your computer it is certainly worth having a good look around, as prices, packages and deals can vary immensely.
It would be worth considering both the 'superstores' and the small independent suppliers in your local area, and choosing which ever best suits your particular needs.
Q. What sort of computer should I get?
A. When choosing which computer to buy you must first establish what the computer is primarily going to be used for. If it is general word processing and Internet access, then you do not need anything too flash.
First decide if you want an Apple Macintosh or PC. Mac's are more expensive, and if you are buying your first computer it is possibly more sensible to get a PC. They are cheaper, more commonly used (i.e. in offices etc), and some people would argue easier to use than a Mac.
When choosing your computer, there are a few key words to look out for:
RAM (random access memory): The RAM of a computer has a direct influence on the speed of it. The most common RAM is 128Mb, but others will have 64Mb and some will be a lot higher. The higher the RAM, then the faster your computer will perform. For simple word processing and Internet access, 32Mb is fine, but 64Mb will make using your computer slightly less frustrating.
Speed: Your computer will run at a certain power, for example 600MHz. Again, the higher this figure, the better your computer will perform, but it is not necessary to go above 600MHz, and your computer would work well even at 500MHz.
Software: When you buy your computer, a certain amount of software will be included. On a PC it will be a version of Windows, i.e. '2000', 'ME', 'XP' etc. Any of these will suit your needs. Do check that this software is included, as a version of Windows can sometimes cost more than the computer itself!!
For creating word processed documents and spreadsheets, there are a number of programmes available. The most commonly used software is the Microsoft Office suite of programmes which include Word (word processing), Excel (spreadsheets) and PowerPoint (presentations / slide shows). A number of different manufacturers offer similar packages.
When buying your computer it is very important that you purchase an anti-virus programme, such as those made by Norton and McAfee. It is very important to run regular virus checks on your computer, particularly if you use the Internet and e-mail.
If you do want to use your computer for surfing the Internet and communicating by e-mail, you will need a modem - this is the device which links your computer to a telephone line, allowing you to 'get on-line'.
A quick note: be sure to keep all software CDs and discs. Should your computer catch a virus or breakdown for any reason, the programmes may be irretrievable and will need to be reinstalled. Likewise, it is a good idea to save important documents that you create - these can be saved on to floppy discs. (To save larger files, you will need to have a Zip drive or a CD rewriter - Zip discs and CDs can save much larger amounts of information than a floppy).
Q. How much will a computer capable of going on-line cost?
A. A 600MHz computer, with 128Mb RAM and Windows XP is likely to cost about £700 - £800. You could buy a cheaper computer, for example £500 - £600, but it is likely to be painfully slow.
If you require a printer, you can often pick up some good inclusive packages, and if you were prepared to pay the money, £1000 would get you a very nice computer, printer and often a scanner too.
Q. Would it be better to get a desktop or laptop computer?
A. You must decide in what context you are generally going to use your computer. Obviously, if you foresee that you will be transporting your computer on a regular basis, a laptop is the most sensible option.
In terms of performance, you will pay less for a desktop that performs as well as its equivalent laptop. Laptops are expensive due to their convenient features, not because they perform better than desktops. As a rule, for the same amount of money, desktop computers will be faster and more capable than the laptops.
Another consideration is security. Remember that a laptop is far easier to steal than a desktop.
Q. How do I decide which Internet Provider to use?
A. This is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Again, you must think about the context within which you will be using the Internet. Questions such as how often you might use the Internet and for how long must be considered.
Internet Service Providers (ISP's) will all offer various deals to try and attract new customers. For example some might offer a fixed monthly fee in return for unlimited Internet access, whilst others will charge for the Internet in the same way as a phone bill, i.e. the rate of a local call per minute.
It is important not to jump at the first attractive deal that comes along. Use some of the free home trials that are on offer and see how you get on. Choosing the right ISP can save you a lot of money so take your time to decide.
Q. What software will I need, and how much will it cost?
A. To run a PC you will need a version of Windows, for example Windows XP. This will provide you with everything that you need to get on-line, and quite a lot that you don't! This software is very often included in the price of your PC, but if bought separately it could cost many hundreds of pounds extra.
To be able to use your computer for word processing, creating spreadsheets to keep track of your accounts and so on you will need to purchase suitable programmes. The Microsoft Office package is commonly used and widely available, but there are many other similar programmes by other manufacturers on offer.
Anti Virus software is an essential buy - by running regular virus checks you can help prevent your computer catching a virus which may prove terminal, and also help prevent you sending other people viruses by e-mail for example (something that can be all too easy to do!). Popular anti virus manufacturers include Norton and McAffee.
Q. Will I be able to set up and connect the computer myself?
A. The computer is sold along with a detailed and comprehensive instruction guide to get you set up and on to the Internet. This will tell you all you need to know in order to get you started.
The installation instructions can sometimes appear quite daunting if you are new to computers. There are people you can hire who will help to set up your computer, however this will invlolve extra cost. If you adopt an organised and methodical approach, and take your time, you are more than likely to be able to install the computer by yourself. By 'doing it yourself', not only will you get an immense sense of achievement, but you will also have a better understanding of how the system works.
If you do get stuck, many computer retailers have telephone support lines with trained staff on hand to help out!
Q. What can I do if the computer won't connect to the Internet?
A. If the computer will not connect to the Internet the problem is most likely to be with the modem or the ISP.
Modem: check the modem is switched on and connected properly. It acts as a translator between your phone line and computer; hence ensure that both ends are correctly connected. Some modems are built in to the computer, and as such this problem should not arise.
ISP: the most common problem when trying to connect to the Internet is a problem with your ISP. Before you can gain access to the web, you must register with an ISP, be it a trial or more permanent arrangement. This registration process can often be quite complicated. Check the details you have registered are correct, and allow time for your registration to be completed. It is sometimes necessary to get in contact with the ISP if the problem persists.
Q. How much does being connected to the Internet cost each month?
A. Talk to your Internet Service Provider to find out more.
Q. Will being on-line affect my current phone line?
A. Yes. When your computer is connected to the Internet, it is effectively making a phone call. Therefore your phone line is engaged whilst the computer is on-line. If you are going to be on-line frequently, then it is certainly worth getting a separate line put in for this purpose. Many ISP's will do this at a low cost as part of their offer, and it is certainly an advisable option.
Q. Can I get connected if I am a cable user?
A. Yes. Many cable companies now offer Internet connection, just as they offer phone connection.
Q. If I decide to be disconnected am I tied by any sort of contract?
A. Usually, but do take advice.
A. A modem acts as a translator between your computer and the phone line. It receives data through the phone line and converts that data into the text and images that are displayed on your computer screen.
Q. How much do modems cost?
A. Internal modems are about £40, and prices for external varieties start at £60.
Q. Which modem will I need?
A. You should quote - "56k V90".
Q. What are the advantages of being on-line?
A. E-mail access: send instant text and images all over the world.
Shopping: order virtually anything from groceries to cars straight to your door.
Research: access thousands of resources that are not available in books or on film.
Travel: Plan and book to go anywhere in the world, for the cheapest possible price.