A walk past the famous Paradise Circle in Secunderabad towards Parklane brings us to Hyderabad and Secunderabad’s de facto personal computer and laptop accessories market, the Chenoy Trade Center (or CTC as it is often known, it is now a computer area in hyderabad). This building was originally like any regular shopping complex consisting mainly of clothing stores. Later it was even converted into a residential complex. But soon it went back to being what it was: a shopping center.
What can you search… This hub houses all the computer peripherals you can think of. No wonder then that it is even compared to Lamington Road in Mumbai or Nehru Place in Delhi. The CTC has a poor cousin in the form of a few shops at Gujarati Galli in Koti. But nothing compares to this in the city. The market started with sales in hardware and assembled computers only. Later, it even became the hub for pirated software until the dealers became authorized resellers. Now the complex is a one stop shop for new purchases, maintenance and repairs. In fact, if you can’t find a computer-related accessory at CTC, it probably isn’t available anywhere else in town.
Tips for shopping…
- Most stores offer fair prices, but bargaining is not a bad idea.
- For software, purchase it from authorized resellers or purchase hardware that comes bundled with the software.
- It is always good to plan a purchase and then visit this place. So do your research online or check any Indian computer magazine as dealer recommendations here are usually to push products where their commissions are higher.
- The market is closed on public holidays and Sundays, so schedule your visits only on weekdays.
- Hindi, Telugu and English work equally well, so language shouldn’t be an issue.
- Parking space is pretty hard to find for cars so be prepared to park near Paradise and be ready for the hike.
- Ask for home installations for new PC purchases. For updates, take your PC with you for the best service.
- Although most merchants accept credit cards, they charge an additional 2.5%.
- To refill printer cartridges request a print test.
- Ask about the warranty and warranty details.