The Computer Corner
By Charles Miller, Nov 24, 2006

Make your list and check it twice

I suspect a few Atención readers are going to do some holiday shopping, so here is some advice for those who have a new computer or peripheral on the shopping list.

There are many questions you should ask to make sure that you get the computer that is right for you and that you get what you are paying for.

Today there is no substitute for doing your homework before you start shopping the stores. It is imperative to have some idea of what you need before you buy. Talk to friends who have recently bought a new computer and learn from their experiences. Check for reviews and prices on the internet before leaving home.

Once you enter a retail store, you are going to be at the mercy of salespeople. Your first task is finding a knowledgeable salesperson—and it is not an easy job. I suggest you start by asking this question: “Is there a button to change everything in the computer from English to Spanish?” There is no such button. If the salesperson says there is, run like heck.

Store salespeople are frequently going to try to steer you in the direction of the item that pays them the best commission or “spiff.” This goes double for accessory items such as anti-virus software. If the salesperson is pushing something, it is frequently because they can earn a cash “spiff” on every one they sell.

This might seem like a stupid question, but you might ask the salesperson: “Do you work here?” A manufacturer’s representative working the sales floor is there to sell his company’s merchandise—and only his company’s.

If the computer you want is out of stock, do not be pressured into buying whatever is left over. The fact that a particular model has sold out probably means it is a good buy, and you should ask the salesperson to check on its availability at another store.

Ask about the manufacturer’s warranty and also about the store’s extended warranty. Most Atención readers will want to know if the warranties are valid internationally and where service is available.

There should be a computer on the sales floor with internet access. Ask your salesperson to call up the website for the manufacturer and check it out right then and there to see if the manufacturer has a warranty repair station in León or Querétaro.

You should ask about the store’s return policy. Make sure you get it in writing as to how long the return period is and whether or not there is a “restocking fee.”

You also need to know what happens if your new computer is defective. Will the store immediately replace it with a new one, or do you have to ship it somewhere for repair? Get it in writing because that salesperson may not still be working there if you have trouble!

It is not particularly constructive to ask if there is a sale coming up or if the computer you are buying is going to be discontinued soon. The salesperson is not in a position to know the answer to these questions. A better question to ask is whether the store will match a competitor’s price if you find a better deal elsewhere or whether they will lower the price to make a sale. Many stores offer a 30-day price guarantee. Get the answer in writing and get specific about how to obtain the refund if you qualify.

In a few weeks, Microsoft will begin selling their new version of Windows, named Vista. A lot of salespeople are telling people who are buying computers now that they qualify for a free copy of Vista when it becomes available. Get it in writing, or you are not going to get it.

Charles Miller is a freelance computer consultant, a frequent visitor to San Miguel since 1981 and now practically a full-time resident. He may be contacted at 044-415-101-8528 or email FAQ@SMAguru.com .