Refurbished Desktop Computers Explained

Buying a Refurbished PC
By Dave Stewart

Refurbished desktop computers are essentially second hand pc's. Refurbished desktop computers come from two main sources, returns and trade-ins. These days the majority of manufacturers recycle their returned stock, whether they were considered faulty by the consumer or returned for other reasons. You may have also noticed other consumer electronics popping up on the market described as 'manufacturer refurbished', these products come from the same process as refurbished computers.

Simplistically when a manufacturer refurbishes a computer they;

* Clean the machine and peripherals.Test each component individually to verify that they still function properly.

* Format every hard drive, to remove any data stored on them. Assemble the parts to form a 'new' refurbished system.

* Test the system again, as a complete platform. Install an operating system and hardware drivers.

These systems are then put back on the market as refurbished systems, with a lower price tag reflecting this. So now you're wondering, should you buy a refurbished desktop computer? There isn't really a simple answer, it all depends on the individual system and your circumstances. By circumstances I'm referring to your budget and what you're going to use the system for.

For information on determining what you need in a computer from what you're going to use it for check out http://www.discountdesktopreviews.com/articles/finding-a-cheap-pc.html . Once you have decided whether a refurbished system would suffice your needs, you then need to look at your budget.For those running a tight budget, refurbished systems are a great way to save some cash when buying a new system. If, on the other hand you have more money to spend on a pc, you should consider the limitations and disadvantages of a refurbished pc.

A big limitation of refurbished desktop computers, and all refurbished consumer electronics for that matter, is the inability to customize your purchase. When you buy a brand new computer, you have the choice to customize it to your needs. With refurbished systems they come as they are.Another disadvantage of second hand systems is the fact that what you can buy, is constrained by what consumers have returned. If you're looking for a specific part or setup then you may have great difficulty in finding it in a refurbished pc. Finally when purchasing a refurbished desktop computer, you need to check whether it comes with a warranty and the specifics of the service or repairs.


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