Issue 50.12
One of the items we didn’t mention in last week’s computer buying guide is the new ChromeBook from Google. It is not technically a computer but is more of an internet device. It is the size of a netbook (11 inch screen and small keyboard) and works well with internet based products like facebook, email, etc. It is limited in that the operating system is not Windows-based so it only runs web based programs, but the number of those is improving. It has a camera for skype or other web-cam programs and it has a 16 Gigabyte SSD (Solid State Drive) for storing data. That is fairly small, but since you are not loading multiple programs it is sufficient for most people. You won’t be able to store large quantities of music or pictures unless you use “cloud” storage (items stored and retrieved from the internet), and movies are pretty much only an option if you “stream” them (download them while watching from netflix, blockbuster, etc.). Prices run from $199 up depending on add-ons and features.
Cameras – The increase in resolution of cameras has leveled off at around 12-16 megapixels, mostly because the pictures taken at that size and above take a lot of space and it is hard to store and email pictures when they each take 2-4 Gigabytes. Most pictures do not have discernible differences above about 8 megapixels unless you print them out at very large formats (above 8X10 inches). What has changed are the prices. You can find inexpensive point and shoot cameras that take fairly good high definition pictures in the $40-$100 range. The higher quality ones run about $100 more. The more professional SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras have up to 23 Megapixels and are usually used by professionals that take pictures for large scale projections, professional posters or advertising. These require a little more education to use well and cost from $500-$2000 and you can spend hundreds or even thousands more on special lenses, filters and other attachments. Amazingly though, the prices have come down drastically. These cameras were in the $20,000 range just a few years ago.
Printers – Printers have settled into three basic groups now. The basic inkjet that costs from $40-$100 (these are fine for occasional everyday printing but usually only last a year or two), the serious printers (from $150-$250) which are built a little better and last longer and usually have additional features such as double sided printing or wide format printing, and semi-professional printers which are built for endurance and high capacity and have most of the bells and whistles. Those run from $300 on up. Nearly all printers now come with scanning capability. Many can fax as well, but you usually need a land phone line to use this feature. Some also offer eprint options (printing remotely through the internet from your smart phone, etc.) You can find sales on printers often so watch for deals and close-outs. Laser printers are also down in price, but be careful of the cost of ink or toner for any printer you choose. I saw one color laser that was only $150 but the toner cartridges (4 of them) cost over $180 each and the starter kits included with the printer only last for about 100 sheets.
That’s all the room we have today. I have a few free computers that I am willing to give to needy families if you know of anyone who needs and can’t afford one. You can reach me at the number below. Have a merry shopping Christmas – and always make sure you have a back up of anything important.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 30 years, 20 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 through his website at www.bitsnbytescomputers.com.