Your First Computer

Chances are that if you are reading this, you already have a computer. If, however, you are reading this on a school computer or friend’s computer, you really should get your own. The question is, which kind?

You have two main choices, an APPLE or windows based computer. I don’t say “APPLE or PC” because APPLE invented the personal computer, not IBM, as some assume. Both new APPLEs and windows based computers can use windows based software but APPLE Macs also use APPLE software. This is particularly important in some of the work I do that involves video editing. If expense is a concern, you may be partial to windows based computers, though at the high end of computer power, APPLEs are competitively priced.

My first computer was an APPLE. That’s because my friend and computer consultant John Zoltai recommended it. A recommendation for which I am eternally grateful. He worked for Los Alamos National Laboratories and they used APPLEs. I figured if it was good enough for Los Alamos, it was good enough for me. The APPLE Mac’s ease of use and utility were a Godsend. Although I can work in a window’s based computer environment, I much prefer working on a Mac.

Your disability may make a difference as to what computer you should get. Different platforms may require different assistive technology. Some companies provide information about accessibility of their equipment and related AT. For example, see APPLE’s accessibility . Don’t rely though on computer companies to provide complete lists of compatible AT. I have found that TRACE offers rather complete and updated information. The Trace Center works on ways to make standard information technologies and telecommunications systems more accessible and usable by people with disabilities. They’ve been doing it since 1971 and are very good at it. You could just Google the information you are looking for but start with TRACE. The ADA requires companies to provide accessible services but not accessible equipment. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires that the Federal Government only purchase accessible equipment. There are exceptions of course, such as the military. The point is major companies sell to the federal government and therefore offer accessible products.

Do some research on reliability. Consumer Reports will tell you which computer company has the best customer service record. In CNET reviews, they try to give you an idea of how extensive the help information is with both printed and online resources. Most computer companies’ desktop warranty lasts one year for both parts and labor. Don’t bother with extended warranties – they’re not warranted.

Do you want a Laptop or desktop? A laptop is convenient but if you’re a person that is forgetful you may want the desktop. I saw a “Lost” sign posted by a student that lost his laptop with all of his graduate work on it. You would think educated people would take better care of their equipment but apparently not. Let’s not forget the incident in which the Pentagon lost a laptop computer with valuable information on it. If you are leaning towards a laptop, would you consider a tablet or convertible notebook? I’ll refer you again to CNET.

What accessories do you want? Do you want to burn DVD’s or not? The work or play you will be doing on the computer will influence how much RAM to get and what speed processor you need. That information may make a difference in getting a laptop verses desktop.

The computer company’s business profile may also influence your decision. DELL, for example, is built on being price competitive whereas APPLE competes on innovation. Do you want the cheapest computer or the most innovative? FORTUNE lists APPLE Computer as the most admired company for innovation this year while no other computer company is even listed in the Top 10. Gateway makes a very good computer but their stock price is 1.86. It was at 3 a year ago and over 8 five years ago. I wonder how much longer they will be around.

There are many factors to consider when choosing your first computer. You know which computer I would choose. Good luck on your choice.