In the right place? If you already know the computer you want to buy, please see Buying PCs and Laptops or Buying Apple Computers and Laptops for a list of resources.

Deciding on the specifications that meet your needs is a critical part of buying a computer system. The questions and answers below can help you make an informed decision:

• Does your department use Macintosh computers or personal computers (PCs)?
• What will you use your computer for?
• Will your computer be connected to a network?
• What is your budget?
• Should you buy a national brand or a locally manufactured computer?
• Where can you get more information?

Q: Does your department use Macintosh computers or PCs?

A: Some UCSD departments use only Macintosh computers. Other departments use PCs. Some departments use both. Check with your department's information technology staff to find out the choices you have.

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Q: What will you use your computer for?

A: If you use your computer generally for word processing and spreadsheets, most "over the counter" systems should be adequate. The least expensive quality computer built today has adequate specifications to suit most normal operations.

If you use your computer for complicated applications that require multi-tasking, large databases, computer-assisted drafting, or photo or video editing, you will require a more powerful computer. System speed, disk capacity, RAM, and a good monitor are all important factors to consider.

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Q: Will your computer be connected to a network?

A: Check with your department's information technology staff to see if your computer will be connected to a network. If so, you must have a network card so when you choose your computer, make sure that a network card is included. Also, confirm with the information technology staff that the operating system is compatible with the University’s networking system.

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Q: What is your budget?

A: Your budget is a key factor in determining the system you can purchase. When considering the cost of your system, RAM, disk capacity, speed, and monitor are very important. If you are on a limited budget, try to get the most for your money in these areas. Also, remember that the quality of the system, reliability of the vendor, and service before and after the sale are as important in most

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Q: Should you buy a national brand or locally manufactured computer?

A: It's up to you. There are advantages to both.

Advantages to buying national brands include reputation, quality, financial solvency, extensive dealer base, maintenance, and warranty.

Advantages to buying locally manufactured brands include local manufacturer, ease of customization, stake in the customer, local service, and (often) quicker access to the latest technology.

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Q: Where can you get other information?

A: Read ACT Desktop Computer Recommendations and Vice Chancellor Business Affairs Standards - Hardware.

Talk to people in your department about what works for them. See what they are using. Ask about their experiences with the computers and suppliers. Who has the best quality? How is the service from the supplier and/ or manufacturer?

Check with your department's information technology staff or other department experts for recommendations.

Read product reviews online or in print publications.

Contact the buyer in Purchasing for your area for information about what may be the best system in your budget range, sources, models, experience of campus users, etc.

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Questions? Contact Bryan Hurley, 534-1940.