For techno types and those who’d like to be more techno-savvy, the YOURLifeChoices computer pages is here to assist. On the Basics page there’s an extensive glossary of techno-terminology, plus loads of information on everything from broadband to spyware. On the Q&A page you will find answers to all your techno questions, plus there’s a page listing specific sites for seniors as well as the software downloads and games page.
Why not check out our newest page, Computer How-To’s filled with valuable information teaching you how to master outlook, install interesting programs or even how to do simple things such as copy and paste!
Which computer should I buy?
It seems you’ve not long purchased the latest, most up-to-date piece of computer hardware before something better hits the shelves. The key is to pick the right computer for your needs and one which will last.
When shopping for a new computer, you have to shop smart. Easier said than done!
Budget is the first consideration for most computer buyers and this usually means purchasing a PC rather than a MAC. You have to decide whether a desktop PC or a laptop will better suit your needs. With the amount of wireless technology that is floating around, and the drop in price for many laptops over the last couple of years, the smart money is on a laptop. With a laptop, you have two choices. A netbook or a notebook. A netbook is a small, lightweight ‘mini’ laptop, the likes of which have enjoyed a rise in popularity. They are light, have excellent wireless technology are easy to carry and often cheaper than its big brother, the notebook. However, if you are not on the go often, then a notebook is probably the better buy.
There are three things to look out for when buying a laptop, of which the layman may not be aware. Firstly, perhaps obviously, ask what the computer’s wireless capability is. Secondly, ask what the battery life is. Most laptops manufacturers claim to have a superior battery life, but this is usually based on your notebook working on the lowest power. Choosing a laptop with a guaranteed long battery life is essential, as less charging also prolongs the life of the computer. Thirdly, ask how much room, or ‘gigabytes’ (GB) the hard drive has. Will you be storing lots of music, photographs and emails? Or just using your computer to surf the net? The price difference between a laptop/computer with a 200GB storage capacity and an 80GB storage capacity is astounding. If you know how much you need, and it’s not a lot, the opportunity is there to save some money.
Buying a desktop PC is still a good idea, and is considerably cheaper than a laptop. If you have no need for portability and wireless technology, then there are plenty of good desktop computers out there. However, PC’s are large and take up a lot of space. Also, most of the money invested in technology these days has gone into developing notebooks, wireless technologies and smart phones, meaning that the desktop PC is thought to be slightly antiquated, with not too much focus on developing new technology.
Setting up a wireless network at home gives you the freedom to roam around and surf the internet whenever and wherever you please. It also enables more than one user to connect to the internet at the same time. Buying a wireless router for your broadband modem is relatively cheap and by following the instructions, can be set up relatively quickly.
When buying a new computer, you will have to buy an operating system, most likely Windows. And I do hear you when you ask …”what is wrong with my windows 95? I’ve grown to love ‘clippit’ and his slightly useless help”. For years, we were impressed with the notion of a talking paper clip but sadly, technology has moved on. These days, most users run Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7. Anything older can cause problems when you wish to share files. Files created with newer software can be difficult to open; many users will have at some point received a file in “docx.” format, which can only be read by Windows 2007 and above. If you can afford it, go for Windows 7, as Microsoft seems to have ironed out the problems of Vista.
If some people live by the ‘fool me once’ principle, and have already had their fingers burnt by Microsoft, and are somewhat computer literate, then perhaps purchasing an Apple Mac would be the best suggestion. Whether purchasing a ‘Macbook’ (netbook) a ‘Macbook Pro’ (notebook) or the incredibly well designed iMac, which has a computer built into a 21 inch screen, Macs are the boutique computer on the market today. While Macs are more expensive than some PCs and laptops, Apple doesn’t update their software as often as Microsoft, saving you an expense in the long run. Add to the equation that Macs never get a virus…ever, ensure that your purchase will be for the future.
Unfortunately, when it comes down to it, the old saying ‘if a deal seems too good to be true…’ is most applicable when buying a new computer. Most cheap deals are so because the software is already out of date and the warehouse guy wants them clear before Friday. Longevity is essential in the technological world, and if you have some nous, you won’t have to pay too much. Making the correct purchase, even if it costs a little more initially, could save you hundreds on repairs and updating software in one or two years.
AboutSeniors subscriber, Denise wants to know the differences between a Mac and a PC, and if Macs are immune to getting viruses!
Q.
Hi, Would you be able to advise me of the differences between Mac and PC?
I have been told that Macs ‘can’t’ get a virus? Is this correct, or would I need a virus checker and spyware if I were to purchase a Mac? Thanks for interesting articles, and hope you can help me, Denise
A.
Hi Denise,
There are a lot of differences between a PC and a Mac and we have covered this issue on our computer Q&A. To answer your question about Macs and contracting a virus, no computer is immune to getting a virus, but it is a fact that PCs are more prone to being infected, regardless of your virus scanning program. This is because the Windows operating systems are more frequently used worldwide, therefore hackers tailor their hacks and viruses towards Windows systems. You would still need to purchase a virus scanning program for a Mac, although if you read our article on Free Anti-Virus Software, you may find you can get a free one that does a good job!
For a bit of a laugh, we have also included a compilation of the PC vs MAC advertisements playing on the television in recent months!
Online CVs
For a prospective employer, wading through numerous badly written CVs can be soul destroying. Put yourself on the top of the yes pile with a well structured, relevant CV.
Depending on your field of work, your CV can be incredibly detailed or simply a brief overview of what you have done. The key is to be organised. Gather all the information you need before you start. For example, education details, courses attended, previous employers and achievements. As well as outlining your work history, your CV should allude to the type of person you are, nothing as cheesy as what books and movies you like but a little about your personal goals and interests gives a good balance.
Keeping the structure simple is the most effective way of catching a potential employer’s eye. Key information, such as name, address and contact details should be displayed clearly at the beginning of your CV. Also, keep it short but relevant. Ideally, CVs should be no more than two pages long. You may find this difficult if you have an expansive career in your given field but highlight only key information that will interest employers. Additional information can be given in a brief cover letter and remember, you’ll want to hold something back for your interview.
If you still need some inspiration, there are many websites which offer free CV templates but beware, some will try to get you to pay for the finished article in the long run. For handy tips and templates, try CareerFAQs.com.au.
Top 5 tips for buying a computer
Buying a new or used computer can be a daunting task with megabytes, RAM and gigahertz flying all over the place, but what do you need to know when making that leap!
1. Shop around, get at least three quotes (at least one online) with every component listed so that you are sure you are purchasing everything you need and can compare prices between stores. Always enquire about the after sales service, support and warranties, as it may be worth paying 5% more for a product if the company offers better after sales service, support and longer warranties.
2. These days when you purchase a new computer, the main thing that will be missing will be a significant amount of RAM. The CPU speed and hard drive space generally are overly compensated for, but to get the most out of your computer, ensure you a minimum of 2GB of RAM for a new computer, or 1GB for a used computer.
3. New or Used? There are significant differences between buying new or used. Generally if you buy used, you won’t get any warranties on your products but obviously get a far cheaper product than buying New and it is more likely to break down or stop working, than a new computer because of previous usage. If you do plan to buy new, buying a pre-made system unit and upgrading to higher specs if needed is the way to go, as mixing and matching can work if you know what your doing, but generally, computer companies match components together that work extremely well with each other.
4. Never buy top of the line. You can spend over $1500 for a computer, which if your not made of money, which we are all not, is overly expensive and chances are you do not need even half of the power provided by the machine. Computers depreciate faster than cars, with a $3000 computer bought today, selling second hand, three years down the track for a maximum of $500, quite a significant loss.
5. Buy what you need, not what the computer salesmen needs. You don’t really need all of those extras that computer salesmen, is talking you into buying. Stick to the basics, set out what you want and buy only that.
Buy Second hand WorkVentures believes everyone deserves to have access to computers and training regardless of their financial situation. Providing computers for as little as $250 to holders of a current Centre Link Health Care Card, Aged Pension Card, Disability Card or some other form of documentation relating to low-income or disadvantage. Or to organizations that are non-profit organization, educational institutions, church, charity or community groups, WorkVentures is making a real difference.
Find out more here.
Recording our thoughts
Writing down your memories and thoughts is a good brain exercise and enables you to share your life and thoughts with friends or people from around the world. There are many free websites you can use to post your thoughts and you can set these to private and only invite your friends to read them if you choose.
Click here for details
Brisbane Seniors OnLine
If you’re living in the Brisbane area and are looking for a computer club to offer some technical support, computer courses or just for meeting like-minded people, then why not try Brisbane Seniors OnLine?
Brisbane Seniors OnLine is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation which aims to help over-50’s in the Brisbane area learn about computers and the internet. Tutoring is carried out on a one-on-one basis or in small groups. Volunteer mentors are vital to the success of our association and as we expand, we are always looking for new mentors.
Some of the courses offered are Computer Basics, Introduction to Windows or Mac Operating System and the Internet and Email. BSOL helps the over 50’s in the Great South East and Brisbane Area and can perhaps help you or a family member through their Mentor Program.
Cheap computers
Workventures, a not-for-profit organisation, is offering Centrelink cardholders, schools and not-for profit organisations $250 PCs.
What a great initiative! If you are a Centrelink card holder, you could buy a professionally refurbished Pentium 4 computer pack, complete with Microsoft Windows XP and Office XP, already installed and ready to use.
