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Whenever you buy a new computer or upgrade your hard drive on your old computer. It’s good to buy a enclosure to transfer your old files. Most people think it’s hard to do but it’s easy for anyone to do.

1. What type of old Hard Drive do you have? It’s IDE or SATA.

IDE Hard Drive

Sata Hard Drive

2. How are you going to use the Enclosure? One time thing or as a backup?

One time meaning just to get your files then return the enclosure for your money back. Or using it as a backup solution. Which is a good idea for everyone. If you go the backup route then I would say use Comodo BackUp.

3. What is a good enclosure?

This depends on how you use it. If it’s for a long period of time on. Then one with a big fan or cooling solution. I try to look a the reviews before I buy. If you find one you like. Search different site on reviews. Make sure you get at least 4 different review sites. Example. Cnet.com,PCmag.com,Newegg.com, and tomshardware.com

4. Where are some good deals?

I normally go to Pricewatch.com or Newegg.com. These are sites I’ve shopped on before so I know I’m getting a good deal. The other sites I listed were just for reviews. Most of the time there selection is not as good or even close to Newegg.com.

Final Note:
This is just an overview of what to look for in enclosures. I know there is more information out there. But I just wanted to cover the basic’s. Most people I know use them to back up personal media. Not for business. If you have any question please post a comment.

When buying software you need to have stages you go thought to find the right type of software.

Stage 1: Searching

I would say Google it but that’s not as safe as it us to be. Try finding other companies that might need the same software you need. Go to online stores to shop around. Find the section you need and look at the reviews below them. That will tell what your really getting from there users. I’ll list good software stores below. I’ll also list some websites that have free software that might replace your paid versions. Because free is nice.

Stage 2: List

List all the software that you liked at the store. Have at least 5 different software’s listed. Any more than 5 and you’re wasting your time. On that list you just need to have the name, price and website. If the software company doesn’t have the price. Go ahead and call them. I just might be the right software for you. If they try to sell you something too pricey then hang up. If the company doesn’t have a good website. Then see the software looks like. If it’s confusing then don’t use it.

Stage 3: Test

Testing the software is really important because you want to have a real life trial of the software. If it’s for databases. You’re really going to need to put a real database in place to show if it’s what you want or if you need something else. Most software companies have trial versions on there websites. If they don’t, you might be able to call tech support for help. Or even have a demo mailed to you. If you can’t test it, it’s not worth it.

Stage 4: Buy

Look at the site I’ve listed below. Try to find one that has what you need for the right price. It’s ok to shop around even try the companies’ website if you can get it cheaper. Digital Downloads are cheaper but if you like to have physical copy then watch for the shipping price. And you can always just call around to your local computer store for a price check.

Stage 5: Using

Now you’ve bought the software you needed. Try to see if you need any other features you need. If so write them down. Have a list and see what other software would work better. Have other co-worker work on it to see what they think. Don’t try to work around problems; you might waste time not learning the ropes. And when you’re really in trouble Read the Manual.

Good Software Websites

Newegg
Pricewatch
Mwave
Frys