How to Buy a Computer: The Basics

Computer Store --- Memory is one of the key components of a computer which is measured in megabytes. Notice that 1000 MB is equivalent to 1 gigabyte (GB). So the further megabytes you have the greater your computer operates. Most computers now come with a minimum of 512 MB (roughly half a gigabyte) of RAM. You ought to try for 1 GB and more since your pc will run that much quicker. Not that Windows Vista and Mac OS X Leopard operating systems require 1 GB for great performance and 2 GB to run at high speed.

Recommendation: I suggest buying at least 1 GB (1,000 MB). Performance is the crutch of making a computer run like it should.

Insider's tip: Buy the minimum amount of memory then buy additional memory elements called"sticks" from a website like www.datamemorysystems.com/. This can save you around a few hundred bucks.

Buyer Beware: It isn't uncommon for low end computers ($300 to $600) to come with low levels of RAM. Be sure that you check on the ability of your computer as it should be able to manage 4 GB.

The CPU handles all the calculations of the computer. For the normal consumer, CPU speed is not as important of a judge as it was. The frequent computer user won't need to fret about cpu rate up to a gamer or multimedia user.

CPUs are made by either Intel or AMD and both firms have great product options. Intel controls most of the market share and costs over AMD.

Recommendation: CPUs come in two forms: 32 bit and 64 bit. I suggest the 32-bit processors because the 64-bit processors have a lot of problems working with software programs.

Dual Core chips are all the rage right now. What's Dual core? This usually means that your computer has two CPUs which give the user double the computing ability. Dual core is essential for high end users.

Hard Drive: the storage unit

All of your personal data such as your documents, digital photographs, music, and software programs are stored on the hard drive which can be found in a number of sizes and rates. Hard drive Storage has been measured in gigabytes and computers usually come with at least 80 GB of storage.

Pensacola PC Repair tip: Computers may be configured with two hard drives.

Option 1: 2 drives giving which can double your storage.

Option 2: One drive retains an exact copy of the other drive. So if you have a Tough drive fail It Isn't a big deal since you can run off another drive

Recommendation: You're best getting a 120 GB drive with a rate of 5400 rpm.

Video Chipsets: images eye candy1

Windows Vista and Mac OS X Leopard will be the newest operating systems that require a whole lot of fancy 3-D animation which needs better graphics hardware.

You've got two choices when picking video chipsets: An integrated or built in Video card right into the motherboard of the computer. If you are an average computer user than this option should do the job just fine.

2. ATI and NVIDIA provide video cards that produce much better images and can manage Windows Vista and Mac Leopard effortlessly. Cards by both of these companies are the only choice if you online gambling.

Recommendation: Check out these websites www.nvidia.com and ati.amd.com. A good rule of thumb is that the greater the version number-the better the video card.

Recommendation: Look for an Intel GMA3100 (model #) or better with the higher numbers being more advanced.

Now you've mastered the basics of how to buy a computer, it is time to make a few choices. Don't worry, we're here to assist! Contact Us Today!!