The Internet has been one of the big reasons why people go out and buy a new computer. The problem is, having decided to buy a PC; you are usually swamped by hundreds of choices and options. What computer do you buy? How much memory do you need? All these questions seem too much to deal with sometimes.
Let’s discuss the essentials of buying a PC. Let’s look at what’s out there and how you can benefit from the difference choices available.
The basics
CPU – On the top of the list is the computer’s brain known as the CPU or Central Processing Unit. If you have the right budget, you should consider high Intel Pentium processor. The higher the capacity, the better. This should have sufficient power for a home PC. If Intel processors are too expensive for you, look for AMD or Cyrix chips which offer a similar performance at a lower price.
Memory – The rule of thumb is, the more RAM (Random Access Memory), the better. The computer’s memory works faster especially if you are running a lot of simultaneous programs or planning to work with a lot of graphics or big spreadsheets files. These days, PCs usually come with a standard 128 megabytes of RAM, which is enough for minimal computing. Unfortunately, the way computers and their programs are being developed, what is enough today will be found lacking tomorrow. Thirty-two megabytes may not be enough in six months to two years down the line, which will force users to spend for upgrades. If you are purchasing a new PC, you may want to add more RAM from the onset. Sixty-four megabytes are a lot and will turn your system into a true performer.
Buy a PC
Monitor – Computer monitors have evolved dramatically from the time when they were unfriendly green screens on black boxes. Since the monitor is one part of the PC which you are most in contact with, it should be given the proper consideration. If you are buying a new system, it will probably come with the usual 14” or 15” inch boxes, which are okay for starters. If you intend to surf the Web or watch movies on your PC, you may want to look into the new 17” inch models which are now widely available and which your eyes will be eternally grateful for. Most monitors are okay for general purposes, but for computers which are to be used for designing or publishing, a high performance 21” inch set is ideal, although they sometimes cost as much as the computer itself.
Hard drive – The hard drive is the PC’s main storage. All your programs and all your files should fit into this drive. Current PC models are usually bundled with 4.5 gigabyte drives which are huge and should be able to hold most of our information for a number of years. Most HD’s are similar in quality despite the brand. The only question really is the HD’s capacity. You should not settle for anything less than 10 gigabytes.
Floppy drive – In the past, you needed the 5 inch and 3 inch floppies to load programs and for storing your files. These days, most programs are loaded through CD ROM drives and floppies are kept merely for making back-ups or for copying files between computers. The 5-inch floppies are virtually ancient and are really not very useful anymore. For users who need more storage space, another solution is an external ZIP drive or removable flash drive.
Personal Computer
CD ROM – The CD ROM is just like your CD player except that t can read data and input information into a computer. With a CD ROM player, you can play music, watch CD videos, and play games and copy programs from CDs. As with most things pertaining to PCs, more and faster the better. Just remember that for your PC to play music you will also need a sound card to work with the CD ROM. Sound cards are usually offered as standard items but it is always safer to make sure it is included.
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