Issue 51.13
ChromeBook – When compared to a fully functional computer, these laptop lookalikes are fairly limited. They don’t run most programs such as Word, Excel, Outlook, Photoshop, etc. What they do however is give you great internet access, email, basic word processing and spreadsheet capability, you-tube, music, etc. and they do it at a bargain price. If you need a second computer that is mostly for internet, facebook, etc. this may be the system for you – especially since you can get them new for $200-$300 based on size and power.
Kindle or Nook – These are wonderful for carrying a large selection of books around with you and reading in your spare minutes or down time. Simple versions are available under $100 and the new color HD Kindle Fire ($129-299) has many features like internet access, movie and music download and playing and other functions usually only found on computers.
Wireless Router – If you have internet, but not wireless, now is the time to upgrade, especially with all the wireless tablets, smart phones and computers now on the market. You can get a simple “n” series router that is fast and fairly powerful for $30-$100 depending on speed and reach (distance). The new “ac” series routers are now available. They provide dual band wireless along with superior reach and speed for multiple devices. You will generally pay from $100-$300 for these, but if you have a number of wireless devices in use in your home or business, it is well worth the investment even if you don’t yet have “ac” capable devices. That option is now available on many new products and will be on more within weeks or months.
Chromecast – We talked about this last week, but I tested this unit since I wrote that article. Setup was easy and I was able to enjoy movies and music from my tablet in just a few minutes on my flat panel TV. There are a limited number of programs that are chromecast compatible right now, but that is rapidly changing as people see the benefits of being able to look at content on the big screen instead of the small 7 or 10 inch screens most of us have. It can also work with your computer and is very inexpensive ($35).
Used/Refurbished – One thing to be very careful of here. Only buy used or refurbished electronics from people you trust or companies that you know back up their products and offer some type of return option if the item does not work or a limited warranty. Most reputable dealers and companies will offer at least 30 days warranty (some up to 90) on used products. You can find good deals on tablets, laptops, phones, computers, cameras and many other devices if you spend some time researching. This option is especially helpful this year with Windows 7 computers becoming increasingly hard to purchase and Windows 8 computers not making many people happy. Also at a very budget price, you can get upgrades from Windows XP to Linux Mint (which looks and feels a lot like XP) on your older, less powerful computers. I am moving the older computers I have access to over to this OS (Operating System) as we approach the end of life policy on Windows XP computers.
If you have questions about any of these items or especially about used/refurbished or Linux upgraded computers, give me a call. In the meantime, remember to always back up anything on your computer that is important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 32 years, 23 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or his website www.bitsnbytescomputers.com.