Is It Smart to Get a Refurbished Computer?

Apple offers excellent deals for refurbished computers, and some retailers offer great deals on PCs, too. Is it a good idea? The price is right, of course, but you don’t want to get a lemon computer.

MSI laptop computer

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Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do buy a refurbished computer from a manufacturer. Usually, their refurbished computers have only been used lightly. It may have been a store model, or perhaps somebody returned it after only a few weeks of use. If you buy a refurbished computer from the manufacturer, they’ve probably run it through lots of tests and it’s in good shape.

Do ask about the return policy. If you get home and discover that your new (old) computer has some serious issues, you ought to be able to return it. If you buy it from a store with a non-customer friendly return policy, you’ll be in trouble.

Do be wary of private sellers. Luckily, you can usually check out reviews and ratings of eBay sellers, but you should still be cautious. Again, if you can’t return it, you probably shouldn’t buy it.

Don’t get a computer without the original license keys and software. If the owner (or store) doesn’t have this stuff, then it’s not a good idea to buy the computer.

Do figure out what you need before you buy. Consider the memory and speed of the computer you’re considering. Remember: computers have changed a lot since the early days, and you don’t want to get stuck with an old clunker!

So, buying a refurbished computer can work out well for you and your wallet, but do your research first.

 

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Filed Under: Gadgets, Household Technology Tagged With: , ,

3 Things to Consider When Buying a Smartphone

Image representing Android as depicted in Crun...

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A smartphone is definitely an important purchase. If you purchase one with a plan, this phone could be something that you’ll be using for the next couple of years, at least. Take into account the following items when you buy a new smartphone.

You should first look at your requirements when choosing a smartphone. For instance, are you locked with any particular carrier? Do you need to have a particular platform, such as Android (especially if you have purchases from a past smartphone)? It is like buying a car, in that your needs can dictate how to narrow down further.

Look at the features when you compare smartphones. Every smartphone is different and offers a set of features that will appeal to various customers. For example, a new arrival from T-Mobile is the Galaxy S, which offers 4G speeds with HD video and television, as well as the popular Android platform. Sometimes a top phone like this will trigger your interest.

Do your research. Read as many reviews regarding potential smartphones, which can help you assess reliability, performance, and the general consensus toward the phone. Researching will not only help you learn more about particular phones, but will also help you get a feel for the industry and brands that are top choices.

Overall, choosing a smartphone is similar to other major technological purchases. As you would with a television, note features you need, compare models, and do your research. You might just find your next smartphone with a bit of time and effort.

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Renovating Your Home Office

Workshop

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If your home office is more shabby than chic, a few significant changes will knock the dullness right out of your space. A home office is more than just a place to set your computer. It is the place where genius burns and the world’s problems are solved. An important site like that deserves a little bit of pizzazz.

Color

Just because serious thinking will take place in this room does not mean it has to be boring. Tap into your wild side for some inspiration — if animal print is your thing, tastefully incorporate it into your sanctuary. Doll up an accent wall or express your personality through accessories to make the room interesting. Renovation purchases like paint and supplies can add up. A prepaid card is a great way to stay on target financially without going over your budget.

Organization

Having a home office without organization is like having a bakery with no flour; producing anything is going to be difficult and what you do produce probably won’t be very good! Renovating means rethinking what you need and making sure that you have it where you need it. A designer with fabric swatches should place them where they are readily available, visually appealing and yet out of the way when unnecessary. Thinking of these details will lend an aura of professionalism to your office.

Storage

“Have a place for everything and have everything in its place” is the first rule of organization. Writing down the items that must be stored and creating a sketch of storage ideas can aid in making sure storage needs are met. Even small rooms with proper storage can be effective home offices.

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