The one in PC Magazine was basically discussing software programs that are advertized to be able to take the place of hardware upgrades. The one, in particular, that they mention is one that is supposed to upgrade your computer from a non-MMX one to one that now can take advantage of MMX. Obviously this is an impossibility, but, for people not knowledgeable it seems like a real cheap solution. Jim, also, told me about software misrepresentation. Once again, it seems like a cheap alternative to the real thing! Many times software packages come preinstalled on a new computer. If not already installed, some dealers will advertize that for a low price they will install on the new computer software packages that sell for two and three times the amount. This looks like a wonderful deal to the consumer for by purchasing this computer, they believe they are getting lots of stuff for free. What they do not know is that the programs they are purchasing are counterfeit copies.

When buying a new computer that has already been loaded with software, look for a certificate of authenticity. Large companies like Microsoft always include them with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) products.

I have attached to this article a reproduction of a Microsoft OEM Certificate of Authenticity. For a larger version and one that is in color, see the article on the web at: www.tcs.org. In addition, information on how to spot counterfeiting can be found on Microsoft's web site at www.microsoft.com/piracy.

I was told that one product being misrepresented, at present, is Microsoft Office 97. A counterfeit of it is being installed on machines for as little as $110. The cost to the retailer is more than double that.

The next question is why should the consumer care. When a program is counterfeit or a pirated edition it hurts many people. It hurts the manufacturer and in the long run the consumer because the cost lost by the company will eventually be passed on to the consumer by higher prices. It hurts the legitimate stores for it makes the price of their computers seem higher than the competitors because of all the free software that comes with the new computer. But most of all it hurts the consumer. While initially it seems that one is getting a bargain, in reality that is not the case. Without a serial number one cannot get help from the company; if something on the disk goes wrong, one cannot get it replaced; one cannot get an upgrade; one is taking a chance that the disk is not infected with a virus; and future patches to correct a problem might not work.

I have written articles in the past about items to look for when purchasing hardware. I will reiterate a few:

1) Make sure all documentation is with the computer. That means that there is a manual with the motherboard and specification sheets and/or manuals with the other boards like graphic cards, etc. These manuals can make the difference between a computer that runs smoothly and one that does not. [See the article on upgrading memory and why having the manual for the motherboard is so crucial.]

2) Make sure that you have a copy of the warrantee and that all conditions are in writing.

3) If you are comparative shopping, try to have someone with you who is knowledgeable because some places may use inferior products or products that cannot be upgraded.

4) Question the store about technical support after the purchase. While a warrantee might claim support, if there aren t enough techs or they are not qualified, the warrantee becomes useless.

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