I'm in the market for my first computer. Yep, I write a technology column and I've never bought a computer before. Since I work in the media industry, I've usually had access to a computer with which to write and print good looking documents, and perhaps do a bit of snazzy layout.

I've considered buying a computer before but decided all I ever needed at home was a writing instrument. So four years ago I bought a word processor which looks like a laptop but cost, with a printer, about $300. Some might argue it's a computer, but really it's an electronic typewriter with a big screen and no memory and some computer functions.

My word processor was good enough for what I wanted to do, until now. The advent of the Internet has encouraged many computer users, like myself, to buy their first computer for the home.

Be prepared however to do some savvy shopping and gird your loins against the glitzy sales pitches you'll encounter. Most people don't lay out $2,500 to $5,000 on an impulse buy. Unfortunately a lot of people end up going for the first sexy thing they see.

The computer seems to be such a daunting technological instrument to many people, they are prepared to trust in the wisdom of the salesperson encouraging them to buy ever more powerful models.

Take time to stop and think about what you want before you shop, and stick to your plan. It's easy to be dazzled by the first demonstration of some of the technology.

Most computers are capable of doing roughly the same things. Ignore your friends who might be bragging about how much RAM and disk space they've got.

If they need it fine. But if all they're doing with their new Vergon Superzap 1998/20 is to write a letter or two, then it's like having a Harley Davidson they only use once a week to drive a block down the road to pick up milk.

Before you shop make a list of what you want from a computer. If all you're doing is a small amount of writing, then it might be worth it to buy a word processor, or a really cheap computer with basic memory. If you want access to the Internet, or graphic art and publishing quality capabilities then you're going to need more. Plan for a budget with a minimum range of about $1,500 to $2,000.

The basic components are the hardware (the computer, a monitor, and a printer) and the software (the programs that perform the functions.) After getting advice from friends and co-workers, decide on the type of platform you want to use -- the Macintosh Apple type or the Microsoft type.

There are staunch advocates on both sides, so beware of provoking a row. The platform refers to the underlying software running the basic functions of the computer.

Either one is fine for the home. There are more programs available for Microsoft platform as it's the one 80 percent of the world uses. Apple computers are favoured by those in the publishing and media-related industries. Both platforms are these days equal in ease of use and are fast becoming more compatible with each other. Computers running on the Microsoft platform are cheaper than the Apple versions.

You should also be aware that notebook computers, which have been selling wildly, are much more expensive than a comparable regular computer with the same features. You're paying for portability. They're a wonderful advance and won't hog space in your chicken coop.

Then go to all of the six or seven computer shops on the Island, listen to the pitches, and take away the fact sheets most of them issue. These usually have a price on them. If they don't get a written quotation specifying exactly what you'll get. Then you can take these home and do some comparison shopping away from the lure of a good sales pitch.

The quotation should specify the model, the amount of memory, the warranty, and the specific types of software that's included. It's probably best to stick with the major name brands. The novice buyer is not in the position to make a bet on the smaller, newer entrants, who might not be around to supply parts a couple years down the line.

Many home users only need a bottom-of-the-line-machine, but they should make sure it has space for future expansion. You don't have to buy everything at once but you never know what your needs may be in the future. You can add later when you get a bit of extra money.

Don't go for the splurge unless you really want to -- and can. It might also be wise to spend $100 on a getting advice from a consultant who'll do the shopping for you.

Pick up a magazine like Computer Shopper, which costs about $7 at your local newsstand, and lug the 900 page volume home. Or surf the Internet. You'll soon see there's so much on the market. Be aware of the fine print -- "Monitor Sold Separately''.

Compare the prices on the Island with the US prices. This advice will make some local retailers angry, but, hey, from all the reports I'm getting some of them have been shooting themselves in the foot with the way they're treating customers. Prices vary widely and their markups are sometimes 20 percent above what it would cost you to order from overseas and pay the duty. Yes, we all know retailers here have higher costs, but the consumer is not a charity.

There are some good sales on the Island and prices can be roughly comparable, so don't automatically turn away from local retailers. Currently I notice some real deals around when you factor in the hassle of ordering overseas. But don't go for the line some of them have been using that they won't service computers bought overseas.

If they are the authorised dealer on the Island and you have an international warranty from the overseas company -- which many like Dell are issuing -- then they are bound to honour it. Phone up the issuing company and complain if the local retailer is still giving you the line.

When you buy from overseas it might also be worth it to purchase a warranty upgrade, extending the time limit for parts and labour. This usually costs about $100.

Also keep in mind many of the overseas retailers and computer makers offer help desks to guide you through the problems you'll inevitably encounter when playing with the brand new machine in your home. Check out their sites on the Internet for the help desk lines. You can use the computers at M.R. Onions ($5 an hour) or elsewhere to do this.

Friends have told me retailers here will sometimes charge you $100 an hour for the same advice. Of course if someone has to visit your home then it's worth it. Just don't leave it to the computer technician however. Take note of what they're doing. It's an expensive lesson. At least you'll know how to do it next time.

Happy shopping.

Tech Tattle is a weekly column which focuses on technological development and computer industry issues. If you have any ideas for topics or a business you would like to discuss, please call Mr. ElAmin at 295-5881 ext. 241 or at home 238-3854.