Relax! Don't Worry! This is the very first thing you should do. Any of the computers sold at the big name retailers are able to perform basic tasks like reading email, viewing pictures, and browsing the web. As long as you deal with a reputable retailer, you can't go too far wrong. This is true for manufacturers, too--stick with "name" brand computers. Gateway, Hewlett Packard, Sony, Apple, Compaq, eMachine, Dell, and others all make machines suitable for home use.

When you look at the computers' specifications, note the CPU (Central Processing Unit). This is the chip that performs all of the computer's "thinking." If you are purchasing a Windows computer, the chip will probably be a Celeron or Pentium. Celerons are inexpensive and good for basic tasks. Pentiums are more expensive and good for complex tasks like playing high-end games. For your first purchase, a Celeron is probably the best choice.

Another important specification is memory, usually referred to as RAM (Random Access Memory). The computer uses its memory to hold the data that it is currently working on. The more data it can "remember," the faster it operates. Memory is not the place to skimp. Look for at least 256 MB (Megabytes) of RAM. 512 MB or more is even better.

Take a close took at monitor, keyboard, & mouse. You'll be using these devices to interact with your computer and if they don't work well you probably won't be happy. Some things to think about:

A computer is an investment and smart shoppers do their research before making an expensive purchase. Spend some time at your local library and online to determine which computer is best for you. Knowledge is power; knowing the lingo and what you need makes it much easier to deal with a salesperson. Here are some resources to get you started.

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These sources will walk you through the basics of buying a computer. Reading them will help focus your search.

Consumer Reports Buying Guide (December 2005) has a thorough discussion of both desktop and laptop computers. It includes reliability ratings for hardware and ratings for the level of service manufacturers and retailers provide after purchase. Most public libraries have it. Some of this information is online at Consumer Reports. The Buying Guide is available in full text on Ebsco MasterFile, an online database.

MasterFile has full text articles from other magazines such as Consumer Digest, PC World, PC Week, PC Magazine, and MacWorld to help you, too. Ebsco MasterFile is available at all Minnesota libraries. Ask your librarian how to search the online databases.

For books on compter buying, search the SELCO online catalog using the subject heading Microcomputers -- Purchasing.

Mystery Links show you the variety of information and entertainment on the World Wide Web. All of these links are safe and interesting for Senior Techies.