Electronic Gadgets (105)In a time when technology advances at the speed of light, consumers must arm themselves with information before purchasing electronics. In this segment, Leanza Cornett takes you to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to learn about buying digital cameras and avoiding obsolescence in consumer electronics. She solicits advice from experts at CNET, a consumer-oriented electronics website.
Then Tod Marks, Senior Editor of Consumer Reports, cautions against overly-friendly retail salesman pushing expensive extended warranties — and describes some less costly alternatives.
Choosing the Right Digital Camera
- Make sure the resolution (number of pixels) meets your needs. 72 dpi is the norm for most online digital images; 300dpi is the standard for most publications.
- Optical zooms are sharper than digital zooms.
- Be sure the media storage cards you buy provide adequate storage. Get one capable of storing 24-36 high-resolution images.
- Make sure the camera is comfortable and portable.
Resource
CNET Networks, Inc
www.cnet.com
So you can research prior to buying, this website provides information, reviews and news of digi-cams, cell phones, audio and video, etc.
Contacts
Eliot Van Buskirk, Senior Editor, CNET (expert on MP3 players)
Roger Hibbert, Associate Editor, CNET (expert on PDAs)
Jody Gianni, Photo Director
Minimizing Obsolescence When Buying Electronics
- Conduct extensive research on the product.
- Don't pay for features you don't need.
- Buy products with expandable memory.
- Buy from reputable companies.
Extended Warranty Alternatives
- Start a rainy day repair fund.
- Buy reliable brands from reputable companies.
- Buy a surge protector.
- Keep equipment well ventilated and dust-free.
Resource
Tod Marks, Senior Editor, Consumer Reports
www.consumerreports.org
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