Mac Daniel's Advice

Q. I have a shiny new G4 that I use all the time for graphics, etc. But, it's the only computer my family has, and whenever I want to do an important PowerPoint presentation or graphics application for work, one of my kids is on it. To remedy this, I want to get a used computer, but what should I do? What type should I get?

A. Many people out want to buy a used computer, but not many of them know which type to get. Here's how.

1. Determine your needs

Most people in the market for a used computer are just looking for one to use for small applications like typing, Web surfing, etc., because someone always seems to be on their other computer. For these people, any Power Mac (such as the 7200 or 7500) running at least Mac OS 8.1 should be fine. It should have at least a one gigabyte hard drive, although three and up is preferable, and 32 MB or more RAM. Always go for the most you can.

Your next step is deciding on which accessories you'll need.

2. Choose your accessories

Before you do this step, you're first going to need to decide which tasks you'll be using your computer for. If you're going to be using your computer primarily for typing, small projects, etc., then all you'll need is basically a printer. You can pick up a half decent Epson or HP for under $100 US.

But,if you're planning on doing a little bit more, such as surfing the Web, you're going to need a modem as well. Most used computers will include a modem. If not, you can get one pretty much anywhere to fit your "brand-new" older Mac for around US$50-100. Of course, it should be 56k.

Obviously, you'll also need a monitor. Many places you'll be getting a used Mac from will probably also include a monitor along with the deal. If not, make sure you get at least 14 or 15 inches with a .28 dot pitch or lower. Brands aren't really important as long as it is Mac compatible and will work with your system.

Other accessories you might consider are a scanner, Zip drive, or USB card, all of which might come in handy for doing more multimedia-intensive applications, such as PowerPoint.

Now that you're done with picking out what you need, you can now go on to the final step - buying the computer!

3. Making it your own

Now that you've decided what used computer will fit you the best, you're going to need to now do the hardest part, finding it and buying it. The first place most people check is the old standby, eBay. As I write this, there are about 25-50 Power Mac 7500s on sale, mostly for about $250 complete with modem, monitor, keyboard, etc.

If you'd rather deal with a used computer dealer than go through an auction, you can check out the preowned Mac stores online such as Small Dog Electronics, Pre Owned Electronics, or MacResQ. (Lots more on Low End Mac's Used Mac Dealers page. For those outside the States, see the non-US Dealer List.)

In the end, not everyone in your house will not have to be stuck having to share one computer!

Evan Kleiman has been writing for Low End Mac since January 1999. He also runs his own site, Evansite. Evan uses an iMac, along with some vintage hardware. You can read more about his computing experience in The Many Macs of Evan Kleiman.

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