You will need to ask yourself a few essential questions:

How do you plan to use a new computer?

• Primarily e-mails
  
• Surfing the Internet
  
• Word processing
  
• Graphic design or photo editing
  
• Game playing
  

How much are you prepared to spend on a new computer?

• Under $1000: Good for basic Internet and word processing use but limited in power and speed.
  
• $1000-2000: Probably able to handle all tasks but may be slow with graphic intensive programs or games.
  
• $2000 or more: Some may not have the latest and greatest processors but it will probably handle just about any computer challenge.
  

After making your technological and financial evaluations, you're ready to ask yourself, do you wish to:

• shop online
  
• buy through a local retail store
  
• purchase directly from the manufacturer
  
• build it yourself
  

Some manufacturers, like Gateway, Dell, Quantex and others will let you custom build and order your new PC online or over the phone.

Comparison shopping to locate the best buy promises more satisfaction with your investment than an impulsive expenditure.

What should you expect from the retailer or manufacturer?

• Service: Only accept friendly, knowledgeable people willing to spend the time with a "newbie".
  
• Product availability and compatibility: Unless you really customize your PC, it should be in stock, ready to go.
  
• Customer and technical support: 24 hours a day/7 days a week free Technical support with an 800# is the norm.
  
• Warranty: Many manufacturers are offering 3-year warranties.
  
• Ease of setup: Look for color-coded cables and matching connections with easy to read instructions.
  

Computer and office supply retailers, or large department stores and warehouses have the advantage of displaying in-stock units and allowing some hands-on experience.

Knowledgeable sales assistants should be able to answer specific questions and help you choose the computer configured for your requirements. And as you walk out the door with your computer in tow, keep in mind that you'll be dealing with large heavy boxes. You might want to have a helper with a station wagon with you.

Shopping online offers the advantage of configuring a unit with your exact specifications. Often direct online shopping proves to be more cost effective and offers more bang for the buck. Reputable companies, such as Gateway, staff a 7day/24hr support desk to talk you through any problematic situations starting from the out-of-box setup to any software or hardware conflicts that may develop.

Once you have settled on computer specifications, financial commitment and buying location, ask questions, review your order, ask questions, verify your order and ask more questions. One size doesn't fit all, but there is a size to fit everyone.

Despite all this preparation, expect that within six months a bigger, better unit will be on the market for less then you have just paid...a fact of life when dealing with computers.