Each time I shop for a computer, I am pulled between an insane lust for power and the desire to save money.

Now there's a new wrinkle: Microsoft Windows Vista will come out next year, with new demands on memory and graphics.

It's a good time for computer shopping 101.

I'll try to keep my tips short and to the point.

> Don't hurry: Unless you have no choice, delay your purchase until new computers come with Vista installed. That way you won't face installing a new operating system, an intimidating task to many. Besides, you'll have the assurance that all the components in the computer work with the new operating system.

> Go for power: Your new computer should come equipped with at least 512 megabytes of RAM, a recordable DVD drive and a separate video card (as opposed to one that is built into the computer's main circuit board). The processor chip for desktop machines should run at 3 gigahertz or faster. Get a hard disk of 120 gigabytes or more. So, especially if you're shopping now, avoid bottom-of-the-line computers. However, this doesn't mean that you should buy the most expensive models --- more on that later.

> Do your homework: Wait a minute, you're saying, "I don't know much about computers." Maybe that's true, but you do know how to shop. Determine the specifications you need and then comparison-shop national brands. Use online sellers such as www.dell.com and www.gateway.com for a benchmark price. Also keep in mind that online specials and prices fluctuate, so allow several weeks for the shopping process. Just as is true with car and house shopping, try to keep the process unemotional.

> Recycle: Computer dealers often try to package systems including monitor, printer and other accessories. If you are replacing a computer, rather than adding another, hang onto components such as monitors and printers. Just buy what you need. Also, beware of package deals that inflate the price by including software you don't need. Remember, all your old software should work fine with the new machine if you have the original installation CDs.

> Don't forget essentials: If you don't already have an uninterruptible power supply (called a UPS), get one. It'll protect your expensive system from electrical damage. Anti-virus software and a firewall are other essentials. However, there are acceptable free options, including www.grisoft.com for its anti-virus software. The firewall that comes free with Windows is just acceptable, but it can squeak by for folks on a budget.

> Avoid the top end: While it's smart to get a powerful computer, there is such as thing as too powerful. These most powerful computers are, no surprise, the most expensive. In almost every case, the most expensive model offered by a dealer or manufacturer is overkill --- and overpriced.

While having the very fastest computer may impress your friends, it'll depress your bank account. Unless you are designing a nuclear submarine in the basement, all that power is likely to be wasted. (A tip for those building a submarine: Check your basement doors to make sure you can get it out when you're finished).

> To extend or not: No matter where you buy the computer, you'll be offered an extended warranty. The salesperson will make it sound almost insane to pass one up. But if you're buying a desktop PC, go ahead and act insane: Pass up the warranty.

With laptops, there are arguments on both sides. If you conclude an extra warranty is a good idea, don't pay more than a fifth the cost of the system for a three-year deal.

Finally, keep Husted's First Law of Computing in mind. I created this law almost 10 years ago, and it still holds true.

Here's the law according to Husted: If the computer you own now can do everything you want it to do in a timely manner, you don't need a new computer.

tecbud@ajc.com