[ The PC Guide | The PC Buyer's Guide | Step-By-Step Summary Guide To Buying A PC ]

Step 5: After The Purchase

After you have made your purchase, you are almost done, but not quite. There are still a few details you need to take care of to make sure you've covered all the bases. Here are the steps you should take after you've purchased and received your new system or components:

1. Inspect Packages: As soon as you receive your system, inspect all the packages carefully looking for damaged or missing items.
2. Build Your PC: If you are building a PC from components, you will have to assemble the system box. I don't cover this in the Buyer's Guide; see here.
3. Set Up And Test Your PC: Take the system box, monitor and other components from their packaging and assemble the unit. Test the system to be sure it's working properly.
4. Register, If Desired: If you want to, register your purchases(s). There are pros and cons to doing this of course...
5. Provide Feedback: Share with others your experiences with the manufacturer and vendor you selected.
6. Check Your Insurance: If applicable, check to ensure your insurance policy adequately covers your new purchase.

You may experience problems with your system shortly after you start using it. If so, see this section that discusses how to deal with a DOA PC, defective or damaged items, technical support, returning items or using your warranty.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• You may experience buyer's remorse after you buy your PC. This is fairly normal; don't let it get you down. You can only do your best, and if you've followed the advice in this Buyer's Guide you probably bought a very good PC.
• If your vendor offers price protection, don't forget to use it at the appropriate time.
• Consider carefully how you are going to back up your PC, or reinstall your software if you need to.
• Keep all packaging and other items for at least 30 days in case you need to return something.

Next: Requirements Analysis

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