< hmmm... >

   I'm not exactly a computer expert, but often, people ask me for advice on what computer should they buy.  It's no easy task to buy a computer, especially with all the marketing strategies for really fast processors, loads of RAM, high-capacity hard drives, and so on and so forth.

   Now if you're not that into computing, you would probably spend a lot of money on an ultra-fast PC (or if you're really rich, a Mac) that you only use for basic computing tasks like word processing.  The problem with many computer buyers is that they're drawn to the marketing strategies more than the sensibility of why they have a computer in the first place.

   Selling computers nowadays is a lot like selling snake oil.  I've seen too many people have PC's that have everything, but they do very little with it: an Intel 3.6 GHz Core 2 processor, 2 GB of RAM, a 160 GB hard drive, a high-speed DVD-RW, a high-performance GeForce video card, a 5.1 surround sound system, an LCD screen... the works.  I would give my left arm for a computer like that (I won't miss it), but the owner basically just uses it for typing a paper.

   To me, high-end computers are for high-end users: these are people who really need the power.  Hardcore gamers, computer programmers and those who do animation are well-suited for these extremely powerful computers.  If you're the type of person who doesn't do any of those things, you might want to consider buying a cheaper computer: a sensible one that gets the job done.

   If I were you, I won't worry so much about "obsolescence:" there's nothing wrong with a second-hand Pentium III if all you're going to do is to type or if you're not into these graphics-heavy games.  I'm not saying that you should go off to a surplus shop to buy an antiquated Pentium MMX that runs on Windows 3.11, but "obsolete" only applies when you can no longer use the computer effectively.

   "Sensible," of course, depends on your sensibilities.  But here are some tips on "The Sensible Computer:"

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   Define your practical purpose.  Buying a computer always starts with the question, "What is it for?"  "Computing" can mean so many things, but it always boils down to what your idea of computing is.  Be practical: with the state of the economy today, we all have to settle for practical computers and not dream machines.  Figure out what you need to do first, then figure out what you want to do by the time you have that computer.  Remember that powerful computers amount to big electric bills, so settle for a computer that will be well worth your money in the long run.

   Laptop or desktop?  To be honest, I'm partial to desktops.  The way I see it, you should only get a laptop if you do a lot of travelling and a lot of computing while travelling: not too many people do that.  Again, be practical: often, the lowest price for a new laptop can get you a more powerful desktop.  Computers are more of practical tools than status symbols: sure, you get some positive reinforcement by carrying a laptop around (an ego-boost), but I wouldn't be surprised if your ego gets deflated by the time your laptop is stolen.  Laptops are also notoriously hard to repair and upgrade: by the time a part gets busted, the recourse is always to get a new laptop.

   "Performance" is what you do with your computer.  What your computer can do is one thing, but what you do with your computer is another.  I'm not saying you should tinker with your computer (but if you can, go ahead, as long as you know what you're doing), but there's nothing wrong with a "slow" computer as long as it serves your purpose.  If all you do is type, there's no difference between a high-end computer, an entry-level computer, and a second-hand computer.  Consider buying a faster computer if you start to dabble into things like animation, graphics, or if you start to be obsessed with computer games.

   Operating systems.  I'm not saying that you should buy a jurassic 386 and use WordStar for your documents, Symphony for your spreadsheets and play retro games (no, wait, I encourage you to play DOS-based games), but all this hoopla about Windows basically boils down once again to purpose.  Sure, Vista is cool-looking, but there's nothing wrong with good-old XP, or even older Windows versions like NT, 2000, NT, or even Win98.  The key is to have your installer CDs ready: never, ever, buy a computer where they don't give you an installer for your OS (with the money you're paying for it).  Also, consider open-source: Linux is a very stable, reliable, and reasonable operating system.  As far as Windows is concerned, all Windows versions since Win95 operate on the same basic principle of the Start Menu, My Documents, My Computer and the Recycle Bin.  Your choice of an OS depends on what programs you use.

   "Obsolete."  The term "obsolete" is a nuanced expression: if you have your installers handy, you won't even need technical support (just re-install your program and you're fine).  There's no shame in having an "obsolete" computer if it serves your purposes: if you can still use it for your pertinent needs like word processing, it's perfectly fine.  "Obsolete" is an exigency applicable to business firms who need the technical support that comes with constant upgrades, updates, and the money to buy new computers.  For ordinary home users, this operational definition does not apply.

   Do you even need a computer?  Yes, this is a perfectly legitimate question to ask.  Computers are commitments as much as they are everything else: weigh your priorities.  "Need" is often mistaken for "want" as it is often psychologically created.  The way I see it, the only time you'll actually need a computer is if you can no longer get by computer rental shops.  Computers are expensive enough as they are: these are things you can't get by on a whim.  If you can't afford a computer, stick by with things you can actually afford (like shoes, for example) or save up your money until you can buy a machine that suits you.

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   My concept of the "sensible computer" is one that may raise a few eyebrows, since all those tips arrive at the conclusion that it all depends on your practicalities and sensibilities.  Basically, for low-end computing (like typing papers and such), you can get by with a cheap second-hand computer from the surplus shop.  High-end users (not prospective high-end users) would go for those ultra-powerful computers.  But if you're a mid-range user (the bulk of the computing population), I suggest the most reasonably-priced computer that can boot Windows XP in more or less 15 seconds.