Shopping for a personal computer
(PC) can be enjoyable, or it can be frustrating. Unfortunately, some shoppers
believe all personal computers are alike so their main objective is to find the
cheapest one. Doing so can be a mistake. The old saying "You get what you
pay for" is true. Many buyers have later discovered the computer they
purchased lacked important components and features. Avoid making this mistake.
The following sections provide some useful guidelines to help you in your
search for the right PC.
Plan
Before You Buy
Before spending your money, prepare
a written list of your computing needs and how and where you will be using your
new system. Following is a list of questions that will help you identify your
needs.
1. How much can I afford to pay for
a computer? Prices of personal computers range
from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. Faster and more feature-rich PCs
are usually more expensive. Also, personal computers soon become obsolete.
Within a few years you may want or need one that is faster and more versatile.
2. Where will my new PC be used? If you will be using it only in your home or office, a
desktop computer will be suitable. However, if you will need to take it with
you, you should consider purchasing a laptop (notebook) computer weighing 4
pounds or less.
3. Which applications will I run on
my computer? Make a list of applications for
which you plan to use your PC. For example, will you use your PC to prepare
letters and reports? Analyze numeric and financial data? Prepare visual
presentations? Access the Internet? Listen to music? Create and work with
graphics?
4. How long will I keep this
computer? Try to estimate the length of time
(years) you will use your computer before buying the next one. If you expect
use your PC for several years or if you think you may later want to add new
applications, consider one that is expandable, so you can add new components,
such as a modem, printer, or add-on boards. Make sure the PC has expansion
slots so you can connect these devices to your PC.
5. Check out the manufacturer’s and
seller’s reputations and warranties and become familiar with various brands and
models. Talk with friends, co-workers,
classmates, teachers, and others about their PCs. Ask about the performance of
their PCs and get recommendations from persons you trust. Eventually you may
need to have your PC serviced. Ideally, the vendor has a service department
that can repair your PC. If not, you may need to locate a third-party to
provide this service.
Select
the Hardware Components
Hardware refers to all the equipment
that makes up a personal computer system. Hardware includes the system unit,
input devices, output devices, secondary storage devices, and all peripheral
devices, such as printers. Following are some guidelines for selecting PC
hardware components.
1. The System Unit: The system unit is typically a metal cabinet containing the
essential components for processing information. Along with other standard
components, the system unit contains a microprocessor, main memory (RAM), and
slots for installing a graphics board, sound board, modem, or other
peripherals.
a. PC architecture. PC architecture refers to the design and construction of
the PC and its system unit, and not all architectures are the same. For
example, the architecture of an Apple Macintosh differs from that of an IBM or
IBM-compatible PC. Therefore, software written for an Apple Macintosh PC may
not run on an IBM or IBM-compatible PC. However, newer Macintosh PC models run
both types of software. Although some users prefer a Macintosh PC, more
software is available for IBM and IBM-compatible PCs.
b. Microprocessor. Selecting the right microprocessor is extremely important.
Processing speed, typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), is probably the first
consideration. The higher the number of GHz, the faster the processor will
access programs and manipulate data. If speed is important, consider choosing a
microprocessor with a speed of 2.0 GHz or more. PCs containing microprocessors
with speeds up to 3.0 GHz and higher are available.
c. Main memory. Main memory (RAM) is needed for the temporary storage of
programs and data while the data is being processed. Some application software
requires a considerable amount of RAM to function properly, and newer software
versions usually require more RAM than older versions. Typical PCs now come
with 512 MB of RAM, or more. Make certain the PC has sufficient RAM to run the
software you will be using.
d. Secondary storage. What type(s) and amounts of secondary storage are you
likely to need? Typical computers come with a CD drive and a hard disk drive
already installed. A standard compact disc can store up to 750 MB of data, and
certain DVDs provide even greater storage capacity. A hard disk drive contains
one or more rigid storage platters and provides for the permanent storage of
considerably more data. However, the disk itself cannot be removed from the
drive. The storage capacity of a hard disk is an important consideration
because it is used to store all system and application software. Typical hard
disk capacities are 80, 160 GB, and up to 500 GB. Be certain the PC you are
considering has sufficient secondary capacity for your needs.
Other secondary storage devices and
media are available. If you will use your PC to play movies, your purchase
should include a DVD (digital video disk) drive. If you will work with large
files, consider purchasing a computer that includes a CD-RW drive. A CD-RW disc
is a reusable high-capacity disc that allows you to store huge amounts of data
and to erase data no longer needed. Flash drives are also easy to use and are
portable.
e. Ports. The number of ports (slots) available inside the system
unit determines the number of add-on boards that can be installed inside the
system unit. External ports allow you to connect peripheral devices such as
modems, printers, digital cameras, and mice. The number of available ports
determines the number of devices and add-on boards that can be connnected to
the system unit.
2. Input Devices. Typical input devices are a keyboard and a mouse, although
other kinds of input devices are available. Most keyboards and mice operate
similarly. However, there are slight differences in how each "feels"
to the user. Before buying a PC, you may want to test the keyboard and mouse
for comfort and ease of use. Some sellers will allow you to exchange the
keyboard or mouse that comes with the computer for a different one.
3. Output Devices. Output devices produce output in either soft copy or hard
copy form. Most PCs come with a monitor (for soft copy output), but you may
have to purchase a hard copy device, such as a printer, separately.
a. Monitors. Slim, lightweight, flat-screen liquid crystal display (LCD)
monitors have virtually replaced the bulkier cathode ray tube (CRT) displays.
The resolution of most LCD monitors is quite good and they take up less desktop
space than CRT monitors. There are wide differences among PC monitors, with
resolution being perhaps the most important variable. Resolution refers to the
clarity of the text and images being displayed. Before making a purchase,
carefully evaluate the monitor’s resolution. Many vendors allow you to choose
from monitors with varying resolutions. A resolution of 1,024 by 1,024 pixels
is considered high-resolution, in which text and images display exceptionally
clearly. High-resolution monitors are typically more expensive.
Monitor size is another important
consideration. Viewing areas range from 15 diagonal inches to 21 inches and
higher. Larger monitors are usually more expensive, but may be worth the extra
cost. For example, an individual with weak vision may prefer a larger monitor.
b. Printers. Two popular types of printers are ink-jet and laser, both
of which are versatile and capable of producing high-quality output in color.
Examine a variety of printers and models and check the price, print speed, and
output quality of each.
Most ink-jet printers are quiet,
produce high-quality output, and are relatively affordable, although the ink
cartridges they use can be expensive. Print resolution is an important factor
to consider. Some offer impressive resolution and can produce output of amazing
color.
Laser printers are fast and can
produce high-quality output in both black and color tones. Color laser printers
are more expensive than those using only black toner. The cost of color laser
printers ranges from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
Choose Software to Match Your Needs
List
By itself, a computer is merely a
collection of electronic components and devices. Every computer must have
software, including system software and applications software. System software,
such as Microsoft Windows or Mac OS, allows a computer to manage its computing
resources, including the system unit and input and output devices. Most PCs
come with the system software already installed. If the PC you are considering
does not, be sure the system software you choose is will run on the PC of your
choice. Recall that both system software and application software are written
for a specific architecture.
Before making a final purchasing
decision, review your list of the ways in which you will use your computer.
Then find out if the necessary application software is available
(pre-installed) on the PC you have chosen. Some PCs come equipped with a
software suite such as Microsoft Office, which includes word processing,
spreadsheet, database management, and other applications.
A Reminder: Be a wise shopper, and learn which PC best satisfies your
wants and needs. Even the least expensive personal computer system represents a
major purchase. Making the right decisions means you will enjoy using your new
PC in the months and years ahead.