RAM (random access memory):
Memory is one of the key components of a computer that is measured in megabytes. Note that 1000 MB is equal to 1 gigabyte (GB). So the more megabytes you have the better your computer works. Most computers today come with at least 512 MB (about half a gigabyte) of RAM. You should try to 1 GB and more because the computer will run much faster. Not that Windows Vista and Mac OS X Leopard operating system requires 1 GB for good performance and 2 GB to run at full speed.
Recommendation: I suggest buying at least 1 GB (1,000 MB). Remember that Windows Vista and Mac Leopard memory hungry so we recommend buying as much RAM as you can afford. Memory is the crutch of making a computer operating properly.
Executives tip: Buy the minimum amount of memory and then buy additional memory components called "sticks" from a site like
www.datamemorysystems.com/. This can save up a couple hundred dollars.
Buyer Beware: It is not uncommon for low-end computers ($ 300 to $ 600) to come with low amounts of RAM. Be sure to check the capacity of your computer as it should be able to handle 4 GB.
Central Processing Unit (the brain):
The CPU handles all computer calculations. For the average user, CPU speed is not as important as an indicator of what used to be. The common computer user will not have to worry about the speed of the CPU as much as a player or multimedia user.
CPUs are made by either Intel or AMD and both companies have large product choices. Intel controls most of the market share and cost more than AMD.
Recommendation: CPU come in two formS: of 32 bits and 64 bits. Suggest that 32-bit processors for 64-bit processors have a lot of problems working with software programs.
Dual-core processors are all the rage now. What is dual core? This means that the computer has two processors that provide users with twice the computing power. Dual core is a need for high-end computer users.
Hard disk: the storage unit
All personal information such as documents, digital photos, music and software programs are stored on the hard disk that are available in many sizes and speeds. Hard disk storage is measured in gigabytes and computers usually come with at least 80 GB of storage.
Insider tip: Computers can be configured with two hard drives.
Option 1: Two drives that can double your storage.
Option 2: A hard drive maintains an exact copy of another unit. So if you have a hard disk fails, no big deal, because it works with the other unit
Recommendation: You are the best to get a 120 GB hard drive with a speed of 5400 rpm.
Video Chipset: Graphics candy1 eyes
Windows Vista and Mac OS X Leopard is the new operating systems that require a lot of animations in 3-D class that requires better graphics hardware.
You have two options when choosing the video chipsets:
1.An integrated or embedded in the right video card in the computer's motherboard. If you're an average computer user that this option should work fine.
2.ATI and NVIDIA offer video cards that produce much better graphics and can handle Windows Vista and Mac Leopard with ease. Cards of these two companies are their only option if in the game.
Recommendation: Check out these web sites and ati.amd.com
www.nvidia.com. A good rule of thumb is that the larger the model number, the better the video card.
Recommendation: Look for an Intel GMA3100 (model #) or better with higher numbers are more advanced.
Now that you have mastered the basics of how to buy a computer, it's time for you to make some decisions. Do not worry, we're here to help!
Topic: How to Buy a Computer: The Basics (Read 1262 times)
