As a computer repair professional, it is rare that I buy used equipment; However sometimes there are deals that are just too good to pass up! Purchasing a used computer can also mean inheriting all the problems that the previous owner had with that machine. So if you're going to be purchasing a used computer there are some important considerations that you must review before just buying a machine from a stranger that you do not know.
Before you just go out and purchase a used computer on craigslist, eBay or anywhere else, please consider the following:
#1. Missing Parts: when you purchase equipment that is used make certain that all of the parts that came with the computer originally wind up in your possession. Many of the tables which run from one piece of equipment to another for example. When I purchase a used computer, I make sure to tell the seller before meeting with them that I would like to make sure the computer works, so I have them that they will set the computer up. I also ask if they have any manuals that came with the computer or installation disks.
#2. Does the computer have at least 512 MB of RAM? The random-access memory otherwise referred to as RAM is the memory which is used when the computer is on. To utilize your new computer or use computer for that matter for the Internet or to send e-mail, you will need at least 512 MB of RAM. A good question to ask the owner of the computer or the seller, is whether or not the memory is expandable. Have they installed as much memory as this machine will handle or do you have the ability to upgrade the machine?
#3. How much is the used computer? For me, when I am considering a used computer, I am not willing to spend any more than $300 for a used computer. The reason for this is because I can buy a brand-new desktop or laptop for that matter in the range of $500-$600. The advantage to the new computer is that it will come with a warranty of some sort and some technical support. So when you stop and think about it, a used computer or PC for the same price as a brand-new computer without the technical support would be a silly purchase. Also, I will not spend any more than $25 on a used printer. You can purchase a brand-new color inkjet printer for around $60 in today's market.
#4. Does the computer have ethernet? An ethernet connection is going to allow you to connect to a high-speed Internet connection. Often times an ethernet card is also referred to as a networking card. You will want to make sure that the used computer you are purchasing has this.
#5. Is the hard drive at least 100 GB? The hard drive is where everything on your new or in this case used computer is stored. So 100 GB is really 100 gigabytes. In my opinion for running more "up-to-date" software, you want to have at least this much space. Having less space than this will limit the amount of software you can add to your used computer. Also many people today are utilizing their computer for all of their pictures. Pictures, movies and other media files are pretty memory intensive and so they usually utilize quite a bit of hard disk space.
#6. If they used computer is a PC, which version of Windows does it have? Windows is an operating system which will help you run and operate your computer. The operating system helps you organize your files and documents and gives the hard drive a file structure as well as operating software that you add to your new system. You will want to make sure that you have at least Windows XP so that you can operate most software. If the used computer has Windows 7, this is the latest version of Windows from Microsoft and is even more current. Personally, I would stay away from computers that have Windows Vista as that operating system has many glitches in my preference would be to purchase a computer with Windows XP or Windows 7.
#7. Can the computer be upgraded? Ask the seller about the maximum CPU, RAM capacities and hard drive. You want to ask the previous owner if possible, about any upgrades they may have performed on the machine. With a used computer, you might outgrow the machine quickly and you won't have the option to upgrade it if it has already been upgraded to it's capacity.
#8. Does the machine have at least a 1.3 GHz processor? The CPU or central processing unit is what drives everything on your machine. The speed should be no less than 1.3 GHz as anything slower than this will hinder your use of the Internet and modern-day browsers. Also, anything less than 1.3 GHz might give you problems and operating today's software.
#9. Does the machine have a modem with at least 56 kB per second? It is unlikely that you will use the modem; However, it is important to know whether or not it has a modem and if so what the speed of that modem is. Modems run at a particular speed which is usually measured in kilobytes per second. A modem that is less than 56 KBPS is just too slow.
#10. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is. Listen to your instincts throughout the sales process. If something does not seem right with the machine, simply walk away from the meeting. Do not feel like you are obligated to purchase this machine or that you will be wasting this person's time if you do not purchase it. There is no obligation on your part to purchase this computer. However, if it seems like a sweet deal and you are comfortable with the machine then purchase it and never look back.
I know these are simple tips, but for some it is just a handy checklist and tips that have served me well when buying used machines. One of the most infuriating things for me is to have purchased and used computer and forgotten one of these very important steps. Nothing is worse than driving away from the purchase and immediately regretting your decision to buy. I hope this serves at least a couple of people well and helps with their decision-making process.
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