You ll probably be advised to buy the biggest hard drive, the most memory, and the fastest processor and modem that you can afford, so your computer has enough capacity to work well now and in the future. You ll spend somewhere between six hundred and several thousand dollars. In contrast, you may be able to buy a used computer and a printer, and add a modem and communications software. This setup may be all your family needs to write letters and school reports, use e-mail, and browse the Web. Of course there will be tradeoffs in terms of speed and performance, and you may run a higher risk of equipment breakdown.
Some stores specialize in refurbishing used equipment, or inspecting it and replacing worn parts.
If you take this route, find out what parts are new before you buy and ask whether you can get a warranty. Also, with any used setup, make sure that any software that is included is licensed, rather than an illegal copy. If you have completed the following sections of the Family Technology Tool Kit , you have the information you need to start shopping for your new computer or have decided to wait on the purchase. The Family Work Sheet is provided as a tool for you to use as you compare prices and determine your family's computer needs. Print off a few copies of the form and then start adding in the numbers.