Shopping for Computer Parts - Software and USB Items

Computers can be expensive and so can the accessories the printers and scanners, the special software and the hardware and the USB items because they all need to talk to one another of course, sigh… the list goes on. But there are some tips and tricks that can take the strain off your pocket and still get you quality products which you must have.

What should be high quality and what can I skimp on?

As with anything else you get what you pay for and you will end up paying far more if you are replacing faulty worn out equipment or rebuilt stuff that can also cause a fire hazard. I have a cousin that loves to build PC’s from old parts and I still to this day don’t know how he hasn’t burned the house down, the hard drive has to be left open in all of them to get the air to circulate and it heats up constantly. This is not the way to run your business at the office or at home.

Some things can be bought cheaply rebuilt but make sure you can get a reconditioned computer from a reputable dealer with at least a 6 month warranty on it so that if it isn’t your wear and tear, you will get it replaced.

USB Items

With USB items it is a little trickier and these things are seriously important. This is what carries your pertinent information to and from and in between the devices you are using. There is nothing more frustrating than a failure to connect or to disconnect and lose precious data in the mix at the worst possible time. This can cost your business a lot of money and a lot of business. USB items should be purchased new and make sure that if you are setting up a new office that you are getting the right USB items for all your equipment. There are literally hundreds of types with all sorts of ports and connections. They can run anywhere from a couple of bucks to hundreds so make sure you know what you are doing here.

HAM Radio shows and Flea Markets

HAM fests are trade shoes that go on all over the world where HAM radio enthusiasts show up to buy and sell all sorts of radio equipment. In recent years the computer trade show dealers have joined them and are selling computer parts and software as well at cut rate prices. The quality varies but it is good to be able to look around and discuss your needs with the dealers. What you don’t find that day at the show you can find at their businesses on line. Most dealers have websites and you can have them order what you are looking for. They are usually happy to have made a new long-term customer and if they don’t sell you what you are looking for then they are happy to refer you to a business that they are an affiliate for.