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Affordable new computers a great gift for the whole family
Many families
can now purchase their first PC, while others can afford to buy a
second to accommodate office and homework needs
Unfortunately, up to now the affordability of computers has kept them out of reach for many families. And in families that do own a computer, the fact that mom and/or dad also need to spend time on the computer means the kids don't get the chance to really explore its potential. Oftentimes they end up sitting in front of the television or a game console. The solution: a new generation of home PCs available in retail stores and on the Web this holiday season that make PC ownership more affordable than ever. In large part because of falling prices, the number of US households buying their first computer is growing rapidly. According to ZD Market Intelligence, nearly 4 million households bought PCs in the first six months of 1998. Nearly 50 million US housholds (roughly half) now own at least one PC. What to look for in a low-cost PCA good, affordable home computer will combine a lower price with enough speed and storage capabilities to run the latest education, multimedia, games, and productivity applications. It will also include a fast modem for surfing the Web and sending e-mail. Your ability to expand the system with accessories will be made easier with USB ports. And it's a good idea to make sure that the PC clearly includes technical support (options vary by manufacturer). As a bonus, your PC will probably include some free offers for Internet service and a variety of built-in software applications.Because they come with Microsoft Windows 98 preinstalled, these new computers provide top performance, a broad range of Internet capabilities, and the ability to tap into the latest advances in computer technology. Overall, a good deal on a consumer PC should include (at a minimum):
Higher power computers also affordableSome families may choose to purchase a higher power computer with the latest and greatest hardware this holiday season, and then keep their current system as a second computer. PCs with faster processor speeds, greater storage capacity, and advanced graphics/multimedia capabilities will include some or all of the following features:
Many retailers and PC manufacturers have consumer leases or loan plans available that make it possible to spread the cost of a PC over 24 to 36 months, instead of having to pay for it all right away. A couple of notes about kids and computersA new PC running Windows 98 provides a solid foundation for any student (or anyone, for that matter) who wants to get the most out of what computing has to offer. Upon that foundation you'll want to add the appropriate software applications. Our Microsoft in Education Web site provides guidance, and we suggest Microsoft Office and Encarta right off the bat as software products that many schools and classrooms find valuable. But you'll also want to contact your child's school to be sure the software you purchase is in line with their goals and activities.
As you're considering computers in your child's education, it's also important to look into tools that help you protect your youngsters from content on the Internet that you'd rather they didn't see. You'll find those tools in Microsoft Internet Explorer, which is a part of Windows 98. See our Content Ratings Web page to find out about these tools and how to use them. |
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