Article by John Ferrett
Used Computers and the 7 questions you need to ask before you buy one.
Computers have rapidly become essential pieces of equipment for many of us, but many computer experts estimate that an average machine stays current for only two or three years. This means that computer owners with an eye for the newest technology will routinely offer older but still useful used computers for sale. But other owners of older used computers may be trying to unload nearly-obsolete models before they lose their entire resale value. You need to know the right questions to ask sellers of used computers in order to get the best price for a system which suits your specific needs. Here are 7 important questions to ask before purchasing a used computer:
1. What is the average sale price of similar models? Ask a local computer outlet for advice on the resale value of various computer models. Look in classified ads for similar computers offered for private sale. Some used computer systems have maintained their value, so the sale price should be comparable. If a complete used computer system is advertised for an extremely low price, chances are the technology is already obsolete.
2. What peripherals are included in the sale? Most computer buyers want a CPU (central processing unit), monitor and keyboard at a bare minimum. You’ll need to know if you’ll need to purchase a new monitor or additional speakers or a better printer. If the seller has additional hardware or other peripherals, ask for a package discount.
3. Have all personal files been removed? Once a sale is complete, many buyers would like to believe they have no more obligations to the seller. Make sure the seller has removed all personal files and licensed programs before the sale is completed. Failing to do so may result in repeated visits to the seller or even an unforeseen liability for the buyer if anything illegal is still contained on the hard drive.
4. Has the system been scanned for spyware, ad-ware and viruses recently? Some computer sellers may be selling the unit because of virus or spyware-related problems. Ask the seller if he or she had anti-virus and spyware protection programs installed on the computer and a recent scan has been performed. If the seller has never performed a virus or spyware scan, the buyer may need to have the computer professionally cleaned.
5. Have any major component been repaired or replaced? You need to know if major parts such as the motherboard or hard drive have been replaced, because their failure may have been caused by an undiagnosed defect. Some parts may have been replaced because of excessive wear, but be careful if the same part has been repaired or replaced more than once on a used computer.
6. Can the computer be upgraded to a newer operating system? If the used computer is running an older operating system such as Windows 98, it may require additional memory to handle even Windows 7. If your computer needs are simple- word processing, a few games, basic Internet, etc., then you might not need to upgrade the current operating system at all. But if you want to run modern software or high-speed modems, you’ll need the added support of Windows 2002 or higher. Ask the seller if the system can handle an upgrade without compromising memory space.
7. Why is this particular used computer being sold? It may be helpful to know why the seller is offering the system for sale, especially if the asking price seems very low. Some parents may be selling off their child’s older computer after the child enters high school or university. Others may be raising money in order to upgrade or purchase another computer. What you don’t want is a system which has become a dust collector in the garage.
You want to make sure that you are getting a fully functioning used computer, that doesnââ,¬â,,¢t have any unresolved and questionable issues from the previous owner.
When buying a second hand or a used computer it really pays to go and see a professional reseller of computers systems and know that what you are buying has been assessed and has a warranty attached to it for your own piece of mind.
About the Author
http://www.usedcomputerstore.orgDown load a free report on the 20 questions you need to ask when you buy a used or second hand computerBrisbane secondhand computers and laptop computers at great prices all used computers and second hand computers come with an operating system, antivirus software and productivity software with word processing, spreadsheet, presentation software and they are internet ready and have a warranty.