It's time once again to ponder what computer or electronic gifts to give this year. Alas, the industry has disappointed me in that there doesn't seem to be a lot of really new, nifty things to buy this year. But it is a bit early and they may be saving the best for last, or perhaps not!
I thought that this year I would try to focus on particular segments of your gift list and concentrate on a few segments in each column.
Buying for a teenage computer geek can be a real challenge. A rule in my house (at least, one of my wife's rules) is that the present should be a surprise. This is the essence of the season for her. But you must realize that there is a huge culture of hardware and software (mostly games) that already exists, and that buying the wrong gift for a teenage computer geek is akin to buying my wife a toaster for Christmas. So, you need to break down and ask. Perhaps the geek in question will provide a list for you to choose from.
Games are always popular, and priced in the correct range (mostly). Don't ask me what to get, but if you ask the TCG (teenage computer geek) I am quite positive that they will have an answer or two. Any of the large online vendors should have the selection you need.
Hardware for a TCG can unfortunately be a lot more expensive than a game. For example, if your TCG wants a new, high-speed video card, the top of the line can run $400 or more! Buying a lesser expensive (and hence less powerful) card will certainly disappoint. Watch out here.
TCG's do like to dress up their PCs, especially if they carry them to game meets with their friends. The term for this is "extreme computing". Miniature chassis with top handles are very handy for that purpose; if not, a PC or monitor carrying case might make a great gift. Most of these game machines are decked out with flashing neon lights, fancy switches, and special decals. You won't find this stuff in the local electronics or computer store - try specialty houses like www.cyberguys.com.
If you want to buy your TCG a new PC, there are also companies that specialize in this type of PC, but beware that they don't come cheap. Try www.cyberpowerinc.com or www.alienware.com.
For the more casual user, one gift I like is a wireless, optical mouse. These are all the rage these days, but my choice is the Logitech MX-700. This is a real slick moving mouse with a very good feel. It has lots of extra buttons that you can program. But its most important feature is that the batteries are rechargeable. No fumbling for fresh batteries in the middle of a hot game session when the old ones run down - just put the MX-700 back in its cradle every night and you are sure of fresh power. This mouse is not cheap, but worth it in my opinion.
Bob Seidel is a local computer consultant in the Southport / Oak Island area. You can visit his web site at www.bobseidel.com or e-mail questions or column ideas to him at bsc@bobseidel.com. For specific inquiries, please call Bob Seidel Consulting, LLC at 278-1007.