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General Comments on Computer Fairs |
| Date: |
31/07/01 (52 review reads) |
| Rating: |
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Advantages: Bargains galore
Disadvantages: =
Computer Fairs started in the days of the early 286 PC, Sega Megadrive and Amiga. Over the years, computer fairs and computer markets have become incredibly popular amongst home users, businesses and enthusiasts alike. Today you'll find a regular show in almost every large town in the UK, packed out with local computer companies and often attended by thousands of people.
You are probably wondering why they have suddenly become so popular. I believe it is because there are less “cowboys”. The sellers are usually businesses with either shops, mail order or internet outlets, so they can be relied on to sell decent quality goods backed up with a reliable after sales service. Also, because of the huge success, the prices are being cut to the absolute minimum as there are very low overheads compared to the normal outlets, and there is an increased number of customers compared to day to day numbers.
The atmosphere is relaxed, and the stallholders seem keen to share their technical expertise with you, rather than the PC World employee who could not tell you the difference between one product and the next.
Get there early, and the best tactic is to have an extensive look around before parting with your money, as it is likely you will find more bargains as you look around the stalls, and do not be afraid to haggle.
Although there will be many bargains, be careful of anything too cheap, especially items labeled "sold as seen" or "untested". The likelihood is that these won't work, but the trader doesn't like to say so.
It helps if you know the current market price of what you're after, which is where a copy of a decent computer magazine will come in handy. Although the prices within the show will be good, it certainly doesn't hurt just to check!
Firstly, prior to deciding to buy you should be in no doubt that the item you wish to purchase is exactly what you need and that it is c
ompatible with your current system and software. It is not the traders responsibility to say what will work on your system and what will not.
If however, the trader does commit saying that something will work, you should ensure this is written on your receipt along with the traders name, contact number and address.
The trader is responsible for describing the goods correctly; that the goods are fit for the purpose described, fit for the particular purpose made known to the trader, of satisfactory quality and of course not faulty or damaged.
If there is something wrong with what you buy, contact the seller at once and let them know the nature of the problem. Often installation or software is the cause, and if you claim the goods are faulty or damaged it is your responsibility to establish that this is indeed the situation. Many people are unable to do this and in these cases it would be reasonable for the trader to request the goods be returned to him or the manufacturer for testing.
Always obtain a receipt with product details, vendors name, telephone number and address.
If you feel unhappy with your dealings with a trader you have four options:
· Ask fair organisers for help.
· Inform your credit card company.
· Use the Small Claims Court - this is quick, cheap and easy.
· Inform local Trading Standards.
I have had no problems, and attend computer fairs once or twice a month and get some excellent bargains.
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Last comment:
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Leadbelly - 01/08/01 Now thats, sound, unbiased advice.
Nice. |
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