The advent of the Internet has brought with it the possibility
of easily getting viruses through email or downloads. You would
be wise to purchase a copy of a good anti-virus program. Beware,
however that antivirus software may cause problems as well - interfering
with installations and slowing down your PC's speed.
Downloadable trials are available from most suppliers:
I am often asked "Where should I go to buy a new system?"
This is a tricky question on the North-West Coast. There are lots of hardware
suppliers on the North-West Coast. Prices for systems here seem to be a lot higher
than in Melbourne, so if you do buy locally shop around carefully. I would recommend
against buying a second hand system unless you get a really good deal.
To get a good idea of what you should be paying, take a look in Thursday's Age Newspaper - in the Green
Guide section you'll find lots of hardware suppliers. If you do get
a system from Melbourne, be aware of the risks associated with transporting hardware, and
also make sure you take into account the possibility of service and backup at the local
level. Personally, I believe that its not worth paying more than and extra $500 for
a system to have the privilege of local support. On average, the price difference
for comparable systems is in excess of $1000.
In any case, here are some links to Northern Tasmanian retail hardware suppliers.
Also, places like Harvey Norman seem to have a good range - but their prices
may be around
10-20% higher than you would expect to pay at a dedicated computer retail outlet.
Upgrading and repairing brand name computers can also be a hassle. Remember, a
department store will have to send your machine away to be repaired - whereas a
dedicated retailer should be able to do the repairs on site.
If you would like to add your supplier, or you would like your site placed on this
list, please email me.
There are not too many places in North-West Tasmania which offer an extensive range of
Software unless you are just looking for games - in which case Harvey Norman and VP
Microtech might be your best bet. If you are a Tertiary Student, then think
about getting your software through your University Bookshop.
Otherwise, Check out the Green Guide again. City Software in Melbourne have a next day
delivery service to Tassie - and their prices are as good if not better than
anyone's. Other sites that offer similar services are:
If you are an average home user, apart from Windows you will probably want a
selection of reference applications and games as well as some basic
word-processing and desk-top publishing software. Microsoft Works and Microsoft
Publisher would be ideal.
If you are a small business person an Office suite should be purchase.
Microsoft Office or Lotus Smartsuite would be my recommendations. In addition
you may choose to keep your books with a custom application such as MYOB (Mind
Your Own Business) or Quickbooks.
Internet Software
Most Internet software you need can be obtained free - either by download
from the Internet or from a magazine disk. Think about buying mags like APC-Mag,
PC User, PC Authority or PC World - all available from your local newsagent.
What to pay?
Mid range systems should cost you around 2K - here's a break-down of
prices you should expect to pay...($AU)
System - mid range processor, mid range components 17"
monitor, inc 56K modem + OS - $1500 - $1700
Colour printer mid range - $250
Scanner reasonable quality - $250
MS Office OEM - $600 (give or take a bit)
Any more this and you are probably getting taken for a ride. Of course prices
will vary according to individual requirements. General rule: "it pays to
shop around". Ask around too to find out what kind of after sales service
businesses give.
