Make High Tech YOUR Tech
What do you do when your tech goes stale?
Research your technology
When you are buying technology, it's always important to get a good quality product. Take these steps when doing your research:
- Google the general type of technology.
Google?Google is a trademark name used for one of the most popular Internet search engines.
The word has dropped into everyday English language as a verb, meaning to search for information on the Internet, especially using the Google search engine.
CloseBe Careful!Be careful where you go online because some websites transmit viruses.
For example, if you are looking for a PS3, you would want to go to the manufacturer's home page.
If you Google it, the resulting websites could have been created to transmit a virus to your computer. So, instead of clicking on just anything that comes up from Google, you will want to make sure it is a safe site.
One way to make sure the website is safe is by using a web rating program that will tell you more information about the site Google finds. Otherwise, you can just go with sites that you know from previous experience or sites that someone has recommended.
CloseLook at the Manufacturer's Website
If you want your purchase to last, one good place to do your research is the manufacturer's website.
The manufacturer will have information like new features, memory capacity, different versions or models, and warranty information.
Say you want a four-wheeler, also known as an ATV (all terrain vehicle). First visit the Honda or Polaris website to look up the four-wheeler's strengths and weaknesses.
Say you want a cell phone so you can visit with your friends while you wait for the bus.
First visit the Motorola, Nokia, or Apple iPhone web page to look up the features and strengths of each type of phone.
Close- Visit the library to use magazines like Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and Consumer Reports. For tech products, other good product review sources are Wired and CNet.com.
Use MagazinesYou'll find these magazines in the research section of your library.
They will show pictures and rate different aspects of the product, so you can decide whether it is a good or bad thing for you to buy.
CloseTalk to Your FriendsOne or more of your friends might have what you are looking for, so you might consider talking to them.
Before you talk to them, create a mental list of questions. Keep asking them questions about the item until you are satisfied that you have gotten the information that you need.
CloseAsk a SalespersonNot all salesclerks are alike, so keep asking until you find one who knows how it works, has information on warranties, and will tell you what to do if it breaks.
Remember that salespeople will want to make money, so they may only give you the most impressive and positive information about the item.
CloseWhen you're finished with your research, it's time to purchase. But first—where's the money?
Earn the money
iReTron: Teen Tycoon Jason Li brings in the bucks. If you don't have the money, there are different ways you could earn it.
These examples will get your creative ideas flowing:
If you have a green thumb, you could grow strawberries in the summer and pumpkins in fall. Then you could sell them to make some money.
Keep your goal in mind while you work. If you are good at art, make and sell your art. Make sure you budget for your supplies with the money you make so you can continue buying materials.
Finally, try doing chores for adults that you know. You could:
- Rake leaves
- Shovel sidewalks
- Walk dogs
- Mow lawns
- Clean somebody's house
- Babysit kids
- Paint a room or building for people you know
Heritage Trust. A Better Place to Start.