Tips and information on buying DVD drives

Buying a DVD drive can sometimes be a confusing task. Below we have listed important considerations to look at when considering purchasing a DVD drive.

Technology

Before considering purchasing a DVD drive it is also good consider the other available options.

CD-R - CD-R, or CD Recordable, drives allow you to do everything that a standard CD-ROM is capable of doing, but at the same time allows you to create your own CDs for backup. An excellent solution for anyone that is in need of a CD-ROM and backup solution.

CD-RW - Like a CD-R drive, a CD-RW (CD Read/Write) drive allows you to read and write to a CD-RW disc thousands of times instead of once like a CD-R drive. While a little more expensive, this is another great solution for backups.

DVD - DVD, or Digital Versatile (video) Disc, allows a computer to not only do everything that a standard CD-ROM drive is capable of doing, but at the same time is capable of reading DVD Discs and DVD movies. For users who plan on playing games or watching movies on their computers, this is an excellent addition. Tips on buying these drives can be found on this page.

Why DVD?

DVD drives, like other technology, can be a confusing and sometimes be thought of as a non-important consideration. Below is some insight to why a DVD drive may be important as well as different considerations to look at when purchasing a DVD drive.

Why DVD? DVD by many is thought as just a solution for users to watch movies on their personal computers. While for many individuals this may be enough, it is important to also look at the factor that DVD is now being used in games or data DVDs, such as an encyclopedia. DVD prevents the user from having to switch between different CDs and instead places all the data on one DVD.

Decoding

Software vs. Hardware For the purposes of watching DVD movies on the computer, you must consider the two below possibilities for decoding the DVD movie.

• Hardware - Hardware decoding requires an additional card, called an MPEG card, be installed into the computer. This card allows for the movie to be mainly decoded with that card and not software or the CPU. This means other things can be done as you are watching the movie. However, this is the more expensive solution verses software, and requires additional system resources (IRQ/DMA).
  In addition, MPEG cards also give users the capability of connecting external video to the computer, allowing the computer to function as a DVD player for your home entertainment system.
• Software - Software decoding requires a software program and the CPU to be used to handle the decoding of the DVD movie. This solution is a cheaper solution but requires complete access to the computer, and in some cases users with processors lower than 200MHz on an IBM computer to notice poor quality video.

Other Considerations

Some other important considerations to look at when purchasing a computer DVD drive include:

Extras - Some manufactures of DVD drives will include extras such as a DVD movie or movies, cables, online streaming trials, and deals with DVD rental stores.

Warranty How long is the warranty and what does it cover.

Support Is the technical support number a free number; is it open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Price range

When looking at purchasing a computer with a DVD drive or a stand alone DVD drive, it is important to take into consideration that a DVD drive will be more expensive than a standard stand alone drive. The price of a DVD may vary depending upon its speed, included software and hardware, or its interface.

DVD: $100 - $300

Ready to buy

Once you have reviewed the appropriate information and believe that you are ready to make a purchase of a computer DVD drive, ensure that the source that you plan on purchasing the DVD from is a reputable source and you have reviewed our section on what to look out for when purchasing over the Internet.

Information and tips on buying a computer CPU

Purchasing a processor is an important consideration when building or buying a computer. Below we have listed several considerations and additional information about what to ask and look for when purchasing a processor directly or already installed into a computer.

Type

The processor can be an important consideration for users who are building a computer. Today, there are three main processor manufacturers: AMD, Cyrix, and Intel. Each of these companies have good and bad reviews, and really each of them are very close in compatibility and reliability. When considering any of these processors verify the motherboard is compatible. For example, if an Intel motherboard is purchased or currently installed into the computer, purchase an Intel Processor, an AMD processor only works on a motherboard designed for AMD.

Considerations

Heat Sink

It is highly recommended that all processors have a heat sink. The heat sink helps to allow for the processor to remain cool and therefore run more efficiently. A computer processor with a missing, bad or failing heat sink can cause the computer to lock up, cause errors or encounter other issues.

When looking at a processor, also consider the heat sink that will be attached to that processor and ensure that the processor being purchased is compatible with that heat sink.

Interface

Today, there is a wide availability of interfaces the CPU may connect to. Below is a listing of each of the interfaces and a brief description on each of them.

Slot
Slot A

The slot was first used and introduced by Intel when they released the Pentium II processors. This slot was designed to allow users to install the processor into the computer. However, because of the additional cost considerations, Intel has now gone back to the Socket what is now known as the FC-PGA socket. Computers that have the Slot are the Intel Pentium II and early versions of the Intel Pentium III.

The AMD processors use the Slot A interface

Socket
FC-PGA
Flip Chip
Coppermine

The socket is the most commonly used and found interface for processors today. The socket has been used in all Intel processors preceding the Intel Pentium II and is now being used for the Intel Pentium III and above processors with the name FC-PGA, which is short for Field-Programmable Gate Array. The FC-PGA is a socket and not a slot processor and is also known as the Intel Coppermine or the Flip Chip.

Slocket

Slocket, which is a slot card, can be used to connect a socket or FPGA processor. This is not an actual interface but can be an option for users who have a slot adapter with a computer that supports speeds of a socket or FPGA processor.

When looking at the interface of the CPU, it must match that of what is on the motherboard unless it is using Slocket.

Names

The names of the processors can be very confusing and are used as a method of helping to sell a computer or computer processor. Below is a listing of some of the more commonly used names and a brief description on each of them.

Intel family names:

Pentium - The 80586, or P5, the Pentium is the generation above the 486 processor line.
Pentium Pro - Chip designed to help speed up Windows 32-bit software
Pentium with MMX - Processor with additional 57 new instructions and enhanced speed to graphics and multimedia software. MMX is now included in all Intel processors that have been released after this processor.
Pentium II and III - The first of the Intel processors to include the Slot adapters. These processors were the next generations of the Intel Pentium processor.
Intel Coppermine - The Socket (FC-PGA) version of the Intel Pentium III and IV.
Intel Flip Chip - Another name for the Intel Coppermine.
Intel Celeron - The low end Intel processors designed to help lower the prices of the computers by reducing or at first eliminating the level 2 cache.
Pentium IV - The next generation of Intel processors, these processors were over 1GHz and were the FPGA processors.

AMD family names:

AMD K6-2 - Socket 7 processor with the 3DNow! technology and first to have the 100MHz bus.
AMD K6-3 - K6-2 chip with Level 2 cache memory that runs at the speed of the CPU.
AMD Duron - Like the Intel Celeron, the AMD Duron is an affordable solution processor allowing for the price in the overall computer to drop.
AMD Athlon - AMD generation with features such as the 200MHz bus speed
AMD Thunderbird - The latest AMD processor, this processor is the socket version.

Speed

The speed of the processor is an important consideration as it is what will rate the speed of the computer and help the computer run faster overall.

When looking at the speed of processors available, we highly recommend that you do not purchase or consider purchasing a processor that has just been released. The price of the processor will be at a premium price and if you give that processor 2-4 months it will drop in price dramatically.

Effects

Upgrading the computer processor may have the below effects on the computer.

• Allow for programs that may require steeper processor requirements to be run.
• Help the computer or computer programs speed in load and opening time. Note: In many cases this may not be noticed or will not be dramatic.

Help and information on buying CD-R and CD-RW drives

Buying a CD-R or CD-RW drive can sometimes be a confusing task. Below we have listed important considerations to look at when considering purchasing a CD-R drive.

Technology

Before considering purchasing a CD-R or CD-RW drive, it is also good to consider the other available options.

CD-R - CD Recordable drives allow you to do everything that a standard CD-ROM is capable of doing with the added ability of creating your own CDs. An excellent solution for anyone that is in need of a CD-ROM and backup solution.

CD-RW - Like a CD-R drive, a CD-RW or CD Read/Write drive allows you to do everything that a standard CD-ROM is capable of doing with the ability to read and write CD-R and CD-RW discs. While more expensive, this is another great solution for backups.

DVD - DVD, or Digital Versatile (video) Disc, that allows a computer to read all discs including DVD discs and DVD movies. For users who plan on playing games or watching movies on their computers, this is an excellent addition.

Interface

The first and foremost important consideration is the Interface that the CD-R and CD-RW drive uses. If you are an IBM user, you have a decision between an IDE, SCSI or USB interface. Macintosh users will want to consider between SCSI and a USB interface.

IDE Each IBM computer has the capability of having a total of four IDE devices connected to it. It is likely that one or two of these are already being used, one by the hard disk drive and one by the CD-ROM drive.
IDE devices are a great solution to consider when thinking about the interface you want to use as the drives are easy to install and are relatively fast.

SCSI Every Macintosh computer has a SCSI port built onto the Motherboard or has an Interface card for SCSI devices. Not all computers have a SCSI card, which means you need to purchase an interface card before installing a SCSI CD-R drive.
SCSI devices are one of the more difficult drives to install but are the fastest solution of the three available interfaces.

USB USB is a new interface available on newer IBM and Macintosh computers. USB is a fast solution but is the slower of the three interface possibilities. What makes USB a strong competitor is they are usually always easy to install and are a portable solution, meaning these drives will work with other computers with USB ports.

Software

The next important consideration to look at when purchasing a CD-R or CD-RW drive is the included software. The software is what allows the computer to interface with the CD-R or CD-RW drive and be able to copy files onto the blank CD. Poorly written software can hinder the ease of use of a CD-R or CD-RW drive and sometimes cause errors with the CDs that are created.

Speed

The speed of the CD-R drive can also be an important consideration, as this determines the amount of time this drive takes to create or read a CD. Users that expect to not burn many CDs may want to look at the slower, less expensive drives, while users that expect to burn several CDs may want to look at the faster, more expensive drives.

Other considerations

Some other important considerations to look at when purchasing a computer CD-R or CD-RW drive include:

Warranty How long is the warranty and what does it cover.

Support Is the technical support number a free number; is it open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Price range

For a CD-R and CD-RW drive, not to be confused with a CD-ROM or DVD drive, can vary depending upon the speed, the included software and the interface the CD-ROM drive uses.

Standard IDE/SCSI CD-R Drive: $100.00 - $200.00
Standard IDE/SCSI CD-RW Drive: $160.00 - $300.00+
USB CD-R and CD-RW Drive: $150.00 - $200.00+

Ready to buy

Once you have reviewed the appropriate information and believe that you are ready to make a purchase of a computer CD-R or CD-RW, ensure that the source that you plan on purchasing the CD-R or CD-RW from is a reputable source and you have reviewed our section on what to look out for when purchasing over the Internet.

Tips and help with buying computer CD-ROM drives

Purchasing a CD-ROM drive is a relatively easy task but can involve some considerations when purchasing.

Technology

Before considering purchasing a CD-ROM, it is also good consider the other available options.

CD-R - CD-R, or CD Recordable, drives allow you to do everything that a standard CD-ROM is capable of doing with the added ability of creating your own CDs. An excellent solution for anyone that is in need of a CD-ROM and backup solution. Tips on buying these drives can be found on our CD-R and CD-RW buying tips page.

CD-RW - Like a CD-R drive, a CD-RW (CD Read/Write) drive allows you to read and write to a CD-RW disc thousands of times instead of once like a CD-R drive. While a little more expensive, this is another great solution for backups. Tips on buying these drives can be found on our CD-R and CD-RW buying tips page.

DVD - DVD, or Digital Versatile (video) Disc, allows a computer to not only do everything that a standard CD-ROM drive is capable of doing, but at the same time is capable of reading DVD Discs and DVD movies. For users who plan on playing games or watching movies on their computers, this is an excellent addition. Tips on buying these drives can be found on our DVD buying tips page.

Interface

The first and foremost important consideration when purchasing a CD-ROM is the interface that the CD-ROM utilizes, such as IDE, SCSI, USB, Parallel or PC-Card.

IDE/EIDE The most commonly used interface with IBM computers, IDE/EIDE/ATAPI interface is found on all IBM compatible motherboards. This interface allows for a total of four devices to be connected.

When considering purchasing an IDE/EIDE/ATAPI CD-ROM drive it is important to verify that you have the available connections for the device.

SCSI The only method with Apple computers and commonly used interface with IBM computers, the SCSI interface allows for a total of seven devices to be connected to the computer and is a faster solution than the IDE/EIDE interface.

If you are user of an IBM compatible computer, it is important that you ensure your computer has a SCSI interface already present in the computer. If not present, you need to install a SCSI card before being able to install a SCSI CD-ROM drive.

USB The USB interface allows a user to install a device and supports up to 127 devices.

Before you can install a USB CD-ROM drive, it is important for both IBM and Macintosh users to verify that a USB port is present on the computer. If not present, an interface card needs to be installed.

Parallel Solution available for PC computers, Parallel CD-ROM drives allow users that may not have the available resources or may have a portable computer to connect a CD-ROM drive.

PC-Card (PCMCIA) Excellent solution for users utilizing an older laptop that does not have a CD-ROM drive to connect a CD-ROM drive to their computer.

Transfer rates

Transfer rates can sometimes be a misleading when looking at purchasing a CD-ROM drive. The transfer rate of a CD-ROM drive is how fast a CD-ROM drive may be able to access the data from a CD. This speed is only going to be noticeable when installing a program or copying large amounts of data from a CD.

Price range

For a CD-ROM drive, not to be confused with a CD-R, CD-RW or DVD drive, the price can vary depending upon the speed and the interface the CD-ROM drive uses.

Standard IDE/SCSI CD-ROM Drive: $50.00 - $200.00
Parallel CD-ROM Drive: $150.00 - $300.00
PC Card and PCMCIA CD-ROM Drive: $100.00 - $300.00

Ready to buy

Once you have reviewed the appropriate information and believe that you are ready to make a purchase of a computer CD-ROM, ensure that the source that you plan on purchasing the CD-ROM from is a reputable source and you have reviewed our section on what to look out for when purchasing over the Internet.

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Buying tips on computer cases (chassis)

Purchasing a computer case is not something to consider if you are buying a computer from an OEM such as Dell or Hewlett Packard. However, for those building a computer it can be an important consideration. Below is a listing of different considerations to look at when buying a computer case.

Color and case type

Today, there are a wide variety of computer case colors and case sizes for the PC. When looking at the case, consider the color of the case and its size. Most cases come in either urban white or white. Additional information about the computer chassis including the color and size can be found on our chassis definition.

Location and size

Before purchasing a computer case you should think out where the computer is going to be placed.

• Is it going to be on your desk or your floor?
• Is it going to have enough space at its location with the monitor and other peripherals possibly next to it?
• If it's in a bedroom will it be quiet enough if left on while you sleep?

Upgrade availability

• Does the case have enough bays for adding additional hard drives or other drives?
• Does the case have the availability for slots for additional expansion cards to be placed in?
• Is the computer easy to work in or will it have to be completely disassembled to get to certain parts of the computer?

Motherboard

If you are assembling your own computer, make sure that the motherboard form factor you plan to purchase is going to be able to fit into the computer case. The standard motherboard form factor today is ATX or microATX.

Power supply

If you are assembling your own computer, make sure that the computer case either comes with a power supply or that the power supply you plan on purchasing will fit into the computer case.

Additionally, if you are building a gaming computer with an advanced video card make sure that the power supply is big enough to support the video card along with all other hardware in the computer. If you cannot find the video card recommended power supply requirement, we suggest using at least a 500W PSU.

Service

Many case manufacturers are creating their cases solely for computer manufactures and may not sell to end-users. If you are building a computer and able to order such a case, it is likely that service or support may be slim or not available as well as long distance. Take this into consideration when purchasing a computer case.

Help with buying a desktop computer

Purchasing a home or business computer can be a big and sometimes costly decision. Below is a listing of helpful suggestions on what to look for and what to ask when purchasing a new computer.

New vs. refurbished or used

If you are looking to save money buying a used or refurbished computer can save you money. A refurbished computer is a computer that has been returned to the company has been checked out as good but cannot be sold again as new. All major computer manufacturers have a refurbished section showing all their available refurbished products. Buying one of these computers instead of a new computer can save you hundreds of dollars.

In addition to refurbished computers individuals and companies for various reasons also sell their used computers. When buying these look out for the following.

• Verify it has no physical damage by inspecting the ports as well as the inside and the outside of the case.
• Make sure you pay for what you are getting. See the scam section below for additional details.
• Make sure computer comes with any CD's for the operating systems or programs that are promised to be installed.
• Realize that many computer manufacturers will not transfer the computer warranty from the old user to you.

Mac vs. PC

The decision between buying a Macintosh and PC computer running Microsoft Windows is always a heated debate.

What to look for

When purchasing a computer it is likely that you are going to have a general idea of what you may like in the computer or how you would like to configure the computer. Below is a listing of the various components likely to be found in a computer and recommendations and tips when considering any of the below components.

Case

The case or chassis is often overlooked when buying a new computer. Below are some things to think about regarding the case.

1. Do you want a desktop or tower case?
2. Will the case fit on top of or below your desk?
3. Will the drives be accessible or will they be positioned the way you want them to be positioned?
4. Does the case support the standards of motherboards, for example, the ATX motherboard standard? This is important if you want to upgrade the computer in the future.

CD media

Most newer computers today have an included disc burner in the computer. If you want to make your own CD's or DVD's make sure the computer supports it.

Hard drive

The hard drive will be the destination of all your files and information. Make sure you get a hard drive with plenty of available space and runs at speeds that don't slow the overall computer down.

Memory

Memory is one of the more important purchasing decisions on a computer. The more memory in the computer, the more efficient the computer is capable of running.

Modem

Depending on how you plan on connecting to the Internet the Modem may not be that important of a buying decision. Most users today are using broadband Internet, which does not require a modem. However, if this is not available in your area make sure your computer includes a modem.

Network card

Almost all computers today have a network card or network option on the motherboard. The network card allows you to share files between computers in your home and connect to a broadband Internet connection.

Processor

The computer processor is and will always be one of the most important considerations when purchasing a computer. Today, with multiple CPU/Processor manufacturers, it may be more confusing as well as more cost efficient to look at all options for computer processors.

Sound card

Today, the standard sound cards that are included with a computer are sufficient for almost all computer users. However, if you plan on doing sound editing or mixing make sure to look at the sound cards capabilities.

Video card

For computer gaming the video card has become one of the most important factors behind memory and processor. If you plan on gaming with your computer make sure your video card GPU and video memory meets the requirements.

Brand of computer

There is no such thing as a computer manufacturer who has a perfect history with all its users. Therefore when it comes to recommending one brand over another it would be impossible for us to say who's better than the other. Instead we'd suggest relying off the below considerations.

Add-ons

All computer manufacturers give you the option to buy additional accessories when buying a new computer. Keep the below in mind before buying these add-ons.

• Make sure your buying accessories you actually need. For example, almost all new computers will include a keyboard and mouse. Also, if you're upgrading from an older computer many of your older peripherals and accessories may be compatible with the new computer.
• If you're buying your computer online, check elsewhere. Many accessories available through the computer manufacturer are sold at a premium price.

Documentation

Most manufacturers today are reducing the amount of documentation included with their computer and substituting that documentation for online documentation. Make sure the documentation found online appears to be sufficient and that software and driver downloads are available if needed.

Hardware

As mentioned in the above what to look for section, make sure the hardware included with your computer meets your needs.

Return

If the computer is purchased at a local retail store, can the computer be returned if unsatisfactory to that store or does it have to be sent to the computer manufacturer? If the computer is purchased online or through a mail order can it be returned if unsatisfactory?

Service

1.  Is the service onsite, meaning a technician will come to your location to replace or fix a bad component. If the service is onsite, is it for the complete time of the warranty?
2. If onsite is not offered, what is and for how long?
3. Can the computer be taken to a local service center? If yes, what is the closest authorized service center?
4. What is the time frame the service takes to occur? For example, if the computer has a bad component, what is the time it takes for a technician to come onsite and replace that component, or if sent in how long does it take? Finally, if that time frame is not acceptable, what is the company willing to do, for example, are they willing to provide you with a loaned computer.

Software

1. Does the software include Microsoft Office or Corel Suite? These packages allow you to have a word processor and a spreadsheet. For the most users this should be an important consideration.
2. Is it the full versions of the software or is the software a demo, trial, or shareware? Many companies will include programs that will expire after 30-90 days and require you to purchase the full program.

Upgrade

While this option may not be considered at first when purchasing a computer, it is an important consideration. When purchasing a computer make sure the hardware you may want to upgrade can be upgraded. Common upgrades for most users today include: Memory, Video card, and Sound Card.

Warranty

Finally, does the computer manufacturer offer a warranty? How long is the warranty? Does the warranty cover both hardware and software issues?

We highly recommend that a computer only be considered if it has at least an one-year warranty. Many cheap computers only come with a 90-day warranty. Meaning if a part goes bad, you pay for the part as well as the service. This may not be an issue for users who just need a cheap computer and are willing to replace parts and service the computer themselves.

Scams

Watch out for the below scams and tricks when buying a computer.

1. Make sure you pay for what you are getting - A common tactic is to overclock the processor, memory, or other component. This can be done by anyone with a little computer knowledge. For example, you may buy a 733MHz processor but instead get a 500MHz.
   
   To determine the processor speed, open the computer and look at the processor itself. Do not look at the processor through a software program or through BIOS as these values can be changed or tricked.
   
2. Legal software - When purchasing a computer, make sure it was legal purchased and the CD or other disc and its CD-KEY is included. Many end-users or small computer companies who build or sell computers may not provide you with legal copies of the software, which is illegal and may leave you with a fine or the inability to get updates.
   

Help and tips with buying batteries

Main batteries

The main battery is the battery used to power laptop computers. When looking to purchase a new main battery from a third-party, make sure you're getting the correct battery. Verify the below specifications either from the bottom of the battery or from the computer manufacturer.

• Type - Get the right battery: Nicad, NiMH, or Li-ion.
• Manufacturer - Some portables may use a certain manufacturer of battery. Verify if a third-party manufacturer's battery was used. Also, make sure the battery is not proprietary and could be purchased from a third-party.
• Voltage - Verify the Voltage of battery; this amount can vary depending on the battery.
• mAH - Verify the mAH of the battery; this amount can vary depending on the battery.

Warranty

Before purchasing the battery, see if the battery comes with any warranty and how long the warranty may be. This makes things easier if it is defective, since you may be able to return the battery for a new battery or for a refund.

Prices

Prices can vary depending on quantity of batteries, size, and the age of the laptop. Below is a list of the most popular batteries and their price range in the U.S. Dollar.

1 NICAD Battery: $80.00 to $150.00
1 NiMH Battery: $100.00 to $160.00
1 Li-Ion Battery: $100.00 to $180.00

Where to buy

Your laptop computer manufacturer is the best place to get a price quote on a replacement battery. After doing this, check any of the links below to get a price quote comparison and find the cheapest solution.

Charge the battery properly

Once you have received the battery, if it includes documentation for how to charge it for the first time, make sure to follow those instructions exactly. Otherwise it's recommended that you charge the battery for at least 24 hours before use.

CMOS batteries

The CMOS battery is used to store system information, such as the time and date, and should be replaced when receiving the error "System battery dead", if the computer does not keep the correct time or date, or if you are losing a dramatic amount of time over a period of time.

Before replacing the CMOS battery, you need to know what battery the computer is using. This can be done either by opening the computer and locating the battery or through the motherboard or computer documentation. We suggest visiting a local Radio Shack or other electronics store if you've got the battery but can't identify it or to purchase a new battery.

Prices

Prices can vary depending on quantity of batteries, size, and the age of laptop. Below is a list of the most popular batteries and their price range in the U.S. Dollar.

CMOS coin battery: $1.00 to $10.00
CMOS RTC battery: $2.00 to $20.00

Bridge batteries

The bridge battery is a small battery that holds a charge for a sufficient amount of time while swapping between main batteries. If you believe that this battery is defective or bad, it is recommended that you contact your laptop manufacturer for a replacement part.

Buying tips and help with buying software applications

Purchasing a software application or program can be a big consideration, especially when purchasing advanced and usually expensive programs such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop. When considering purchasing these programs it is important that you or your staff be familiar with the program and are sure it's going to be capable of what you need it to do.

On this page we've listed different considerations to think about before buying a computer software application.

 Competition

Before buying any application make sure there is not a competing program that may be cheaper or even free. If available and something that's capable of doing what you want it to do this could save you hundreds of dollars.

A good example of such a program is OpenOffice and Corel WordPerfect that would be a competitor to Microsoft Word. Both programs are an excellent choice for a word processor but can be a considerable price difference. In the case of OpenOffice, it's 100% free.

Documentation

Make sure proper documentation is included. Many programs today will include on-line documentation that is more than sufficient. However, it is also useful to obtain a manual or user guide for the software program or application.

Licenses

If you are a company who plans on having software programs used by its employees (more than one person), you need to consider licensing options. It is required that for each computer a product is installed onto that it have a software license. If a company purchases the program and shares it with all its employees without the proper licensing, this would be illegal and can cause your company to face a criminal lawsuit.

Price

Look at your overall price and shop around. Because a software price can change often, you can sometimes save hundreds of dollars on expensive software. If possible, do not purchase directly through the company; many times, the company's price doubles a retailers price.

Be cautious of OEM software. Many resellers will sell a program as OEM, which requires you buy a computer or motherboard. OEM software is software that is included with large manufacturers' computers and only includes either just a CD or a slim manual and CD. This is not what you would find at a retail store. This option is not a bad option, it is only important that you are aware of what you are getting.

Package

Look at the overall software package. How many CDs or diskettes are included, what inserts and documentation is included, and is there any bonus or extra software included?

Media

Today, the majority of software is included on CDs and DVDs. When looking at a program, make sure you have an acceptable drive that's able to read the media, While not common today, an example of why this is important is it's better to receive one CD instead of 32 floppy diskettes.