I'm an avid computer hardware fan, and follow the latest trends in computer hardware..so here's my two paisa's worth of computer gobbeldy gook..
WHERE TO LOOK Computer prices are considerably higher here in Goa, but not much of a difference compared to Mumbai. However, you can get your hardware cheaper in Bangalore. This would be a wise option if you know to assemble computers yourself or you travel to B'lore or M'bai often. there's always the downside of not being able to avail of service and warranty immediately should your hardware fail in Goa. Here in Goa, you get two ranges of computers to choose from, Branded computers and Assembled computers. BRANDED COMPUTERS Branded computers are often a choice of offices, professionals and people who don't want to fuss about their computers too much. They are definatly more pricy than their assembled counterparts, but offer higher quality, reliability, and service (depending on the brand). Service however is subject to location, vendor and brand. Branded systems tend to be a little stiff on variety, with the ability to choose from model nos rather than customized requirements. The most positive point to be noted is that prices in the branded segment has fallen considerably recently, and that's a welcome trend. ASSEMBLED COMPUTERS The most commonly available computer nowadays, this variety is usually about Rs. 5000/- to 10,000/- cheaper than a branded counterpart of the same specifications. This makes most people choose this alternative to a branded computer. Assembled computers have the flexibility of giving you the best deal as the assembler is not restricted to particular brands, don't have to pay for expensive advertisements as for branded computers, and can provide low prices by getting cheaper hardware sourced from different locations. People with specific requirements can get their computer tailor made to suit just their requirements such as just for surfing the net, or just for programming or just to play games. But ofcourse, there are the downsides. Assemblers can quickly gauge a person that is new to computers and often make them pay for a computer that either has features that might not be required, or more commonly and even worse, give them low quality hardware and increasing his profit margins. DECIDING WHAT YOU WANT Making a choice on what computer you want should never be made in a hurry. Take your time. List down what you would expect to do on your computer. Try and be as specific as possible. When you are done, ask a friend that is familiar with computers and looking at your list, he/she should suggest what you should go in for. Remember these few points regarding computers. Higher Gigahertz does not always mean faster computer. It's advisable and cheaper not to buy the latest, latest, latest computer, as computer get outdated by the hour. No matter how 'latest' your computer is, it will defiantly be outdated in a week. Getting a slightly outdated computer also makes economic sense, as the price difference is quite a lot lesser. Sometimes, the newest hardware does not always click, and so its withdrawn and you are left with technology that nobody supports. When you and your friend have decided what you want, go out and visit at least 3 different shops and get their quotations. Both Margao and Panjim have lots of places. Exhibitions like ECAP offer a lot of great deals, but also watch out for stalls trying to offload outdated products at low prices. If you are getting an assembled computer, bargain like you are in a fish market, but remember, assemblers can also reduce prices by reducing quality. Check the net for reviews of the hardware mentioned on your quotation. Branded computers can't usually be bargained for unless you are buying in bulk. I can't stress how important 'SERVICE' is. Almost all computers give trouble in the first 3 months, and could have problems down the line. Both Branded Shops & Assemblers are notorious for terrible service. Ask for a service contract if possible and make sure everything is clear. THE FINAL STEPS You should know prices, and therefore the more quotations you have, the more aware you will be. Branded computers usually sell for 25- 40,000/- but there are some exceptions like Zenith and HCL that give a good value computer for 19,000/- using an AMD processor. I would highly recommend the AMD based HCL Easybee branded system. As for assembled computers, you could get a reasonably good computer for as low as Rs. 15,000/-. Most assemblers offer computers from 18,000/- to 30,000/- Assembled computer parts usually have this hardware and a rough estimate on cost. (I haven't checked prices since Nov'04, so I could be wrong on some prices) Processor.. AMD AthlonXP 2400+ or similar for 2,500/- or Pentium 4 2.8Ghz for 4-5,000/- (AMD is less hype and advertising and more value for money) Motherboard.Assus, Gigabyte, Intel, DFI, MSI for aroud 1,500 to 4,500/- depending on specifications. RAM (Memory) 256MB DDR for 1,500-2,000/- but DDR is on its way out and DDR2 is the latest. I'd suggest 512MB as 256MB is now minimum. HDD (Hard Disk Memory) 40 GB or 80 GB for 2,500/- or less. Check the warranty period. Cabinet & SMPS (Power Supply).ask for a screwless cabinet (easy to open), with front USB/Sound, and a 350Watt SMPS. Together should cost around 1,800/- Keyboard & Mouse need not be fancy. A standard keyboard will do. Optical mice are better and you can get a decent Samsung Keyboard & Mouse for 500/- UPS (Backup Power supply) should be at least 15 minutes and cost around 1,500/- Monitor - A 15 inch or 17inch is fine. About 3,500- 5,000/- Audio - Depending on Wattage or RMS, the range is quite wide. I'd suggest something for Rs. 1,500/- CD Writers, DVD Writers - Floppies are outdated. You could get a system without a floppy drive. Good CD writers cost less than 1000/- and a DVD Writer would cost around 3,500/- When the deal is being finalized, ask the assembler to throw in freebies such as microphone headsets, games, an internal modem card or a network card. With broadband already in Goa, it would be advisable not to go in for an internal or external modem. Instead look for a motherboard that has an onboard network card. When the payment is made, and the computer is delivered, but BEFORE packing material is RESPONSIBLY disposed in an environmentally friendly way, sit down, and note the different serial nos, warranty periods, date of purchase and contact persons should any of your hardware fail. Make sure you have your computer dealer's mobile number as they are very difficult to reach in an emergency. (Always out of office!) Should you need more assistance, or have any other queries, mail me! [EMAIL PROTECTED] Happy computing! Clinton.. A/S/L? 24/m/Benaulim,Goa Date: Wed, 25 May 2005 07:52:22 +0100 (BST) From: JoeGoaUk To: [email protected], [EMAIL PROTECTED], [email protected] Subject: [Goanet]How cheap are the Computers in GOA ? Reply-To: [email protected] This info is mainly for NRIs A simple or basic PC for starters/Students etc would cost around Rs.15,000. Average PC Package would cost around Rs.26,000. Which would include: Intel P4 128MB 40 GB Hard disk CD Drive/reader 56k Modem 15" SVGA Monitor etc etc also, Computer desk, Lexmark Printer say Z-615, UPS (voltage regulator) However, should you need an add-ons like the ones mentioned below, then you will pay more.. Extra 128MB Rs.1,300 Combo drive Rs.2100 4 way soround sounds Rs.2200 AMD/Intel Celeron in place of Intel P4 save Rs.3400 80GB iso 40GB Rs.650 CDW iso CDR Rs.900 DVD iso CDR Rs.1200 CD combo iso CDR Rs.2100 TV Tuner Rs.1800 optical mouse iso scroll mouse Rs.250 17" Monitor iso 15" Rs.1100 15" TFT LCD Monitor iso 15" SVGA Rs.7500 A package with good & Powerful
