Glossary of computer terms: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_computer_terms
Take a moment to think about the sort of things to do on your new PC, as this will help to decide which features your system will need.
If you only intend to run basic tasks - browsing the web, sending emails, running office-type software like Microsoft Word - then the good news is that most computers, even at the budget end of the market, will be able to cope with your requirements. You will want to consider how much RAM (memory) a computer has, what sort of monitor is large enough for you, and what does the computer come with, or what will you have to buy separately, such as mouse, keyboard, speakers, graphics cards, etc.
Many smart phones can serve as computers, for checking the internet and email. For more information on smart phones, click here.
The operating system (OS) for a computer is the software that runs the programs. The two most common in the U.S. are Microsoft (Windows) and Mac (Apple). You will have to decide which system is best for you. As a general rule, you will have more computers to choose from in a wider price range if you choose something running Windows. There are only five machines from Apple at this point, and they tend to be more expensive.
Desktop
Prices for new desktop personal computers (PCs) start as low as $200 and range all the way up to and over $5,000, but most people have a $600- $750 box, including monitor. You still need to make some choices when it comes to CPUs, memory, hard drive capacity and graphics technology. And a PC you buy today could very well last you for three to five years.
Tablets
Tablets are computers that are smaller than a laptop but larger than a smart phone. You can do all the things on a tablet that you can do on a larger computer, but it is much easier to take it with you. Screens on tablets are between 7" and 11", diagonally from corner to corner. Tablets can have a shorter batter life and smaller memory than larger computers, but that really depends on how you use the tablet, what programs you run, and how often you have it turned on. Tablets can cost between $350-$700.
Laptop computer
A laptop computer is more portable than a desktop, but not as portable as a smart cell phone or a tablet. Laptops have all the components of a desktop computer. such as a keyboard, monitor, speakers, etc. built in. There is a wide price range for laptops, anywhere from $275 to $1,500.
Where to buy a computerThere are many options for where to go to buy a computer, from large electronics store to local small businesses. Where you go will be based on convenience, what you are looking for and what prices or sales are at each location. Some larger places to buy a computer are: