How to Buy Computer Peripherals

Although computers are getting more complicated, buying peripherals is actually getting easier because most modern devices connect with either universal serial bus (USB) or FireWire (also called IEEE 1394). Both high-speed connections work easily and almost automatically. If your computer is relatively new (Windows 98 or Mac OS 9 or newer), you should be in good shape. Windows XP users will probably have very few problems, especially with big-brand peripherals.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the peripheral devices that are supported with FireWire and USB. You can connect monitors, scanners, CD burners, keyboard and mouse, a media reader and game controllers all through one of these two connections.

2. Decide what features you want in your device. Monitors have video connectors and the options of LCD screens (which use less energy than cathode-ray tube, or CRT, monitors). Scanner quality is measure in dots per inch (dpi), so you'll want to buy a scanner with a higher dpi for better resolution and higher-quality scans. Speakers are generally a safe bet, even stereo speakers, no matter the purchase. However, when placed next to CRT monitors, the speaker needs to be shielded to prevent a humming noise when emitting sound. The biggest decision with keyboard and mouse purchase is whether to go wireless with them. An optical mouse is preferred over rollers because they work on any surface and are rarely hindered by dust build up or blockage. Game controllers should be purchased in much the same way as the keyboard and mouse. It's about the feel in your hand, wireless or not and compatibility with your machine.

3. For more USB connections, buy a USB hub, which plugs into a single USB connection and provides two, four or even eight more connections. Choose a powered hub for better performance. If you have a choice between choosing FireWire and USB 1.1, go for the faster FireWire. For USB 2.0 to operate at full speed, all three elements--computer, cable and peripheral--must support it. Check packages carefully. USB 1.1 peripherals can plug into USB 2.0 jacks.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to install an internal CD burner or media reader, be sure you know how to safely open your computer and connect devices to its internal circuitry.