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Wafaransa wawili wauawa Zanzibar

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Kisima kilichopo eneo la Matamwe Mkoa wa Kaskazini Unguja ambamo raia wawili wa Ufaransa wanasadikiwa kuuawa na kisha kufukiwa kwa zege. Picha na Mwinyi Sadallah 

Na Mwinyi Sadallah, Mwananchi

Posted  Februari1  2014  saa 9:33 AM

Kwa ufupi

• Maiti zao zaingizwa kwenye kisima cha maji na kufunikwa kwa zege, watatu washikiliwa kwa tuhuma za kushiriki mauaji hayo

Zanzibar.Raia wawili wa Ufaransa wameuawa na kutumbukizwa katika kisima cha maji kilichomo ndani ya uwanja wa nyumba yao na watu wasiojulikana katika eneo la Shehia ya Matemwe Kaskazini, Mkoa wa Kaskazini Unguja.

Habari zilizopatikana na kuthibitishwa na Mkurugenzi wa Makosa ya Jinai Zanzibar (DCI), Yussuf Ilembo zinaeleza kuwa watu hao mtu na mkewe waliuawa hivi karibuni.

DCI Ilembo aliliambia gazeti hili jana kuwa tayari vikosi vya Zimamoto na Uokozi (KZU) na Polisi vimeanza kufukua kisima hicho na kwamba katika hatua ya awali wamefanikiwa kukuta mfupa wa mguu wa kushoto wa mmoja wa watu hao.

Aliwataja wazungu hao kutoka Ufaransa kuwa ni Francois Cherer Robert Daniel na Brigette Mary ambao walikuwa wakiishi kama mtu na mkewe wakiwa na mbwa wao anayeitwa Allan ambaye pia amekutwa amekufa ndani ya nyumba hiyo.

Alisema uchunguzi wa awali umeonyesha kuwa Wafaransa hao waliingia nchini kihalali mwaka 2013, na kununua nyumba kwenye ufukwe wa mwambao wa Bahari ya Hindi eneo la Matemwe na kuanza kuishi eneo hilo.

DCI Ilembo alisema polisi tayari wanawashikilia watu watatu wakazi wa Shangani katika Mjimkongwe wa Zanzibar na mmoja anayeishi katika eneo la Kilimani katika wilaya ya Mjini Unguja.

“Kuna askari wanaendelea na kazi ya kuzamia ndani ya kisima kilichomo ndani ya uzio wa nyumba hiyo, kazi bado ni kubwa na siyo ya siku moja,” alisema DCI Ilembo.

Gazeti hili limefanikiwa kufika katika eneo la nyumba hiyo na kukuta askari Polisi wanne wakilinda nyumba hiyo huku harufu kali ikitoka katika shimo la kisima.

Hata hivyo, mlinzi wa nyumba hiyo ametoweka katika mazingira ya kutatanisha na simu yake kila ikipigwa imezimwa.

Mlinzi mpya aitwaye Omar Juma ambaye amekutwa akilinda nyumba hiyo baada ya kuajiriwa na mtuhumiwa mmoja aliyekamatwa amesema alikabidhiwa kazi ya ulinzi kuanzia Januari mwaka huu na hakumkuta mtu yeyote akiishi hapo.

“Kazi yangu ni kazi za ulinzi, nimeletwa hapa na mwajiri, sijui lolote, mwajiri wangu ndiye anayejua kama kulikuwa na watu kabla au la, sina la kusema na sijui nianzie wapi,” alisema Omar.
Soma zaidi http://www.mwananchi.co.tz/habari/Kitaifa/Wafaransa-wawili-wauawa-Z-bar/-/1597296/2168588/-/ns6sne/-/index.html

NIMEPOKELEWA KAMA MSUKUMA MKOKOTENI NA SIO MTUMISHI!

Pastor Peter Mitimimngi, mkurugenzi wa Voice of Hope Ministries (VHM)

LIFE EXPERIENCE!
NIMEPOKELEWA KAMA MSUKUMA MKOKOTENI NA SIO MTUMISHI!

Siku moja niliitwa kufundisha mkoa fualani na ilikuwa ni kipindi cha Elninyo mnao kumbuka 1998 Mvua iliyoshuka. Ilinichukua siku 4 kufika mkoani badala ya siku 1. Nilipofika nilikwenda moja kwa moja kwa mwenyeji wangu ambaye alikuwa ni mchungaji aliyenialika kama MNENAJI MAALUM wa kingamano. Anaishi hapo hapo kanisani na familiya yake. Kwambahati mbaya sikumkuta ila nilimkuta mke wake. Nilikuwa nimejaa matope kila mahali unaweza ku "imagine" siku 4 barabarani mara tusukume basi, mara tukabate miti porini kukwamua basi kwenye matope nk.
Nilipofika hapo nyumbani mama mchungaji akaniambia "karibu, unasemaje?" nikamwambia namuhitaji mchungaji aliniangalia vile nilivyokuwa mchafu akani "judge" huenda huyu akawa ni msukuma mkokoteni. Hakutaka niingie sebuleni akaniletea kiti nikakaa hapo na begi langu. Ilikuwa ni mida kama ya saa sita mchana nilipofika hapo. Baada ya muda niliona baadhi ya wazee wa kanisa wakiingia na kutoka na nilisikia jinsi mama mtumishi alivyokuwa akiwashurutisha kwamba hawawezi kuondoka mpaka wamekula kwanza. Namimi pale nje niliendelea kupiga miayo tu.

Ilipofika mida ya saa tisa mchana watu walianza kumiminika na kuingina kanisani kwenye maombi kabla ya semina kuanza. Niliamua kubeba begi langu na vilevile nilivyokuwa mchafu na kuingia kwenye maombi. Badae ibada ilianza name nikakaa nyuma kabisa kwenye kona. Katikati ya uimbaji mchungaji aliingia akapitiliza mbele na baadaye akasimama na kusema nasikitika mgeni wetu MITIMINGI tulikuwa tunamtarajia hatujui nini kimetiokea hajafika mpaka mida hii. Nitaendelea kuendesha semina hii mpaka atakapokuja huenda kesho ataendelea.

Mtumishi aliendelea na kufundisha mpaka kama dakika kumi kabla ya kumaliza somo lake akatupa macho kwa mbali tukagongana macho. Akawa kama amepoteza mwelekeo kwa mshangao wa kuniona tena nikiwa mchafu. Akawa akijiuliza maswali haraka haraka. Inamaana mke wangu hajamuona kama amefika? Kwanini hakumpeleka katika chumba tulichomwandalia toka majuzi aoge na kubadilisha nguo?
Aliamua "kupoteza" na kumalizia ujumbe wake.

Baada tu ya kumaliza ujumbe alikumbia kuja nyuma bila kujali kwamba alikuwa amevaa suti safi alinikumbatia pamoja na matope niliyokuwa nayo. Watu waliokuwa jirani walikuwa wakimshangaa mbona mtumishi anakumbatia yule msukuma mkokoteni wanajuana kivipi? Mtumishi akaniuliza kwani umefika muda gani? nikamwambia tokea saa 6 mchana. Akasema oooh pole sana itakuwa mkewangu hakukuona jamani.Mtumishi akamuita mkewe kwa haraka. Mama Stella mbona mwalimu wetu anasema alikuwa hapa toka saa 6 mchana ilikuwaje mkapishana hukumuona? Mama mtumishi akajibu kwa mshangao mkubwa na aibu! Ha! kwani huyu ndio MITIMINGI akajibiwa yes ndio mwalimu tuliyekuwa tukimsubiria kutoka Dar mama mtumishi akasema ooh jamani mtumishi wa bwana huku akinipa mkono na kupiga magoti Bwana Yesu asifiwe kumbe ni wewe jamani lile begilako liko wapi? Karibu ndani jamani huku akibeba begi langu na kulipeleka katika chumba maalum nilichokuwa nimeandaliwa. Leo nimejisikia nikushirikishe experience niliyoipitia miaka kadhaa katika huduma. barikiwa
Chanzo: gospelkitaa.blogspot.com

Introduction to computers according to Microsoft

Windows 7 

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Are you new to computers? Do you wonder what they do and why you would want to use one? Welcome—you're in the right place. This article gives an overview of computers: What they are, the different types, and what you can do with them.

What are computers?

Computers are machines that perform tasks or calculations according to a set of instructions, or programs. The first fully electronic computers, introduced in the 1940s, were huge machines that required teams of people to operate. Compared to those early machines, today's computers are amazing. Not only are they thousands of times faster, they can fit on your desk, on your lap, or even in your pocket.

Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software. Hardware refers to the parts of a computer that you can see and touch, including the case and everything inside it. The most important piece of hardware is a tiny rectangular chip inside your computer called the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor. It's the "brain" of your computer—the part that translates instructions and performs calculations. Hardware items such as your monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, and other components are often called hardware devices, or devices.

Software refers to the instructions, or programs, that tell the hardware what to do. A word-processing program that you can use to write letters on your computer is a type of software. The operating system (OS) is software that manages your computer and the devices connected to it. Windows is a well-known operating system.

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ENIAC

Introduced in 1946, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was the first general-purpose electronic computer. It was built for the United States military to calculate the paths of artillery shells. Physically, ENIAC was enormous, weighing more than 27,000 kilograms (60,000 pounds) and filling a large room. To process data, ENIAC used about 18,000 vacuum tubes, each the size of a small light bulb. The tubes burned out easily and had to be constantly replaced.

Types of computers

Computers range in size and capability. At one end of the scale are supercomputers, very large computers with thousands of linked microprocessors that perform extremely complex calculations. At the other end are tiny computers embedded in cars, TVs, stereo systems, calculators, and appliances. These computers are built to perform a limited number of tasks.

The personal computer, or PC, is designed to be used by one person at a time. This section describes the various kinds of personal computers: desktops, laptops, handheld computers, and Tablet PCs.

Desktop computers

Desktop computers are designed for use at a desk or table. They are typically larger and more powerful than other types of personal computers. Desktop computers are made up of separate components. The main component, called the system unit, is usually a rectangular case that sits on or underneath a desk. Other components, such as the monitor, mouse, and keyboard, connect to the system unit.

Desktop computer

Laptops and netbooks

Laptops are lightweight mobile PCs with a thin screen. Laptops can operate on batteries, so you can take them anywhere. Unlike desktops, laptops combine the CPU, screen, and keyboard in a single case. The screen folds down onto the keyboard when not in use.

Netbooks (also referred to as mini notebooks), are small, affordable laptops that are designed to perform a limited number of tasks. They're usually less powerful than laptops, so they're used mainly to browse the web and check e‑mail.

A laptop and a netbook

Smartphones

Smartphones are mobile phones that have some of the same capabilities as a computer. You can use a smartphone to make telephone calls, access the Internet, organize contact information, send e‑mail and text messages, play games, and take pictures. Smartphones usually have a keyboard and a large screen.

Smartphone

Handheld computers

Handheld computers, also called personal digital assistants (PDAs), are battery-powered computers small enough to carry almost anywhere. Although not as powerful as desktops or laptops, handheld computers are useful for scheduling appointments, storing addresses and phone numbers, and playing games. Some have more advanced capabilities, such as making telephone calls or accessing the Internet. Instead of keyboards, handheld computers have touch screens that you use with your finger or a stylus (a pen-shaped pointing tool).

Handheld computer

Tablet PCs

Tablet PCs are mobile PCs that combine features of laptops and handheld computers. Like laptops, they're powerful and have a built-in screen. Like handheld computers, they allow you to write notes or draw pictures on the screen, usually with a tablet pen instead of a stylus. They can also convert your handwriting into typed text. Some Tablet PCs are “convertibles” with a screen that swivels and unfolds to reveal a keyboard underneath.

Tablet PC

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What can you do with computers?

In the workplace, many people use computers to keep records, analyze data, do research, and manage projects. At home, you can use computers to find information, store pictures and music, track finances, play games, and communicate with others—and those are just a few of the possibilities.

You can also use your computer to connect to the Internet, a network that links computers around the world. Internet access is available for a monthly fee in most urban areas, and increasingly, in less populated areas. With Internet access, you can communicate with people all over the world and find a vast amount of information.

Here are some of the most popular things to do with computers:

The web

The World Wide Web (usually called the web, or web) is a gigantic storehouse of information. The web is the most popular part of the Internet, partly because it displays most information in a visually appealing format. Headlines, text, and pictures can be combined on a single webpage—much like a page in a magazine—along with sounds and animation. A website is a collection of interconnected webpages. The web contains millions of websites and billions of webpages.

Example of a webpage (Microsoft Game Studios)

Surfing the web means exploring it. You can find information on the web about almost any topic imaginable. For example, you can read news stories and movie reviews, check airline schedules, see street maps, get the weather forecast for your city, or research a health condition. Most companies, agencies, museums, and libraries have websites with information about their products, services, or collections. Reference sources, such as dictionaries and encyclopedias, are also widely available.

The web is also a shopper's delight. You can browse and purchase products—books, music, toys, clothing, electronics, and much more—at the websites of major retailers. You can also buy and sell used items through websites that use auction-style bidding.

E‑mail

E‑mail (short for electronic mail) is a convenient way to communicate with others. When you send an e‑mail message, it arrives almost instantly in the recipient's e‑mail inbox. You can send e‑mail to many people simultaneously, and you can save, print, and forward e‑mail to others. You can send almost any type of file in an e‑mail message, including documents, pictures, and music files. And with e‑mail, you don't need a postage stamp!

For more information about using e‑mail, see Getting started with e-mail.

Instant messaging

Instant messaging is like having a real-time conversation with another person or a group of people. When you type and send an instant message, the message is immediately visible to all participants. Unlike e‑mail, all participants have to be online (connected to the Internet) and in front of their computers at the same time. Communicating by means of instant messaging is called chatting.

Pictures, music, and movies

If you have a digital camera, you can move your pictures from the camera to your computer. Then you can print them, create slide shows, or share them with others by e‑mail or by posting them on a website. You can also listen to music on your computer, either by importing music from audio CDs or by purchasing songs from a music website. Or, you can tune in to one of the thousands of radio stations that broadcast over the Internet. If your computer comes with a DVD player, you can watch movies too.

Gaming

Do you like to play games? Thousands of computer games in every conceivable category are available to entertain you. Get behind the wheel of a car, battle frightening creatures in a dungeon, or control civilizations and empires! Many games allow you to compete with other players around the world through the Internet. Windows includes a variety of card games, puzzle games, and strategy games. For more information, see Learn about games in Windows 7.

Source:http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/introduction-to-computers#1TC=windows-7

 

Understanding Computer Terminologies

Like all things man-made, computers have evolved  a lexicon all their own.   The following incomplete list should help alleviate misunderstandings of computer-related terms:

	CD-ROM:  Another acronym.   This one stands for Compact Disk-Read Only Memory.   CD-ROM disks are becoming the standard for delivering programs from the software developer to the computer user.  CD-ROM's come in a variety of flavors based on the language they are written in (PC, Mac, or Unix).  PC's cannot read a Mac CD-ROM, but Macs can read PC CD-ROMS.
	CPU:  The brain of the computer acronym for Central Processing Unit. This is located on a circuit board inside the desktop or tower computer case.  This component has terms associated with it such as "486", "Pentium" and "Celeron".  Most of the CPU's are manufactured by a company called Intel.  They are the Microsoft of the hardware world.

	Data:  Computer food.  Data can be numbers, letters, symbols, mathematical expressions, mouse clicks, or button presses.  The CPU translates all this activity to series of zeroes and ones and then performs magic.
	Drivers:  Drivers are software packages that are needed to run certain peripheral devices.  Printers, monitors, scanners, and network cards all require software drivers so that the computer knows how to communicate and control the device.
	486:  An older CPU that was constructed at the beginning of the Windows 95 revolution.  This CPU works great if you are running MS-DOS or Windows 3.1.  In general, this is one of the things that should be considered when purchasing a computer.
	Hard Disk Drive (HDD):  This is the internal magnetic storage device housed inside the computer case.  These come in a variety of sizes, measured in how many bits of information they can contain.  A bit of information equals either zero (0) or one (1).  To a computer, this is equivalent to turning a light switch off (0) or on (1).  Computers operate on bits in groups of 8, called a byte.  Every byte contains 8 bits.  Bits and bytes can be stored magnetically on material that resembles cassette or 8-track recording tape.  The magnetic material stores information as sequences of the digits "0" and "1" (hence the name digital storage).  Since it takes many bytes to store such things as letters, words, and sentences, the amount of information that a Hard Drive can store is measured in multiples of 1000-bytes, 1,000,000 bytes, or 1,000,000,000 bytes.   Terms such as kilobyte (1000 bytes or 1KB), megabyte (1,000,000 bytes or 1MB), and gigabyte (1,000,000,000 bytes or 1GB) have evolved to represent these storage capacities.  When you purchase a computer, get as large a Hard Drive as you can afford.  The standard in 1998 was between 4GB and 8GB.  The Hard Disk Drive is often referred to as the "C:" drive.
	Floppy Diskette:  The floppy diskette is a removable storage device that is used by the Floppy Diskette Drive (also known as the A: drive or FDD).   This storage device is capable of holding 1,440,000 bytes (1.44MB) of data. The Floppy Diskette is inserted and removed from a slotted opening on the front of the computer case.
	Keyboard:  The main tool to get information into the computer and the most common way to tell the computer what you want it to do.  Most keyboards have the same arrangement of keys as a typical typewriter keyboard.  Computer keyboards have additional keys  that perform computer-specific functions.
	Modem:  A telecommunications peripheral device that allows computer to communicate with one another via conventional telephone lines.  Modems are required for home computers  to access the Internet or to send and receive facsimile transmissions (FAX).    Modems are rated by their speed in moving data from the computer to the telephone line.  This speed is measured in bits per second (bps).  Standard modern modems are rated at 7.2mbs
	Monitor:  The "Television" screen that allows you to see what the computer is doing.   Many newcomers to computing mistakenly think of the monitor as the computer itself.   Computers can operate without a monitor, but computer users cannot.
	Motherboard:  The circuit board on which most of the major electronic components are situated.  Most manufacturers integrate cable attachment ports on the back-end of the motherboard.  They also include slots so that owners can add their own cable attachment ports.  The slots are designed to accept cards.  These are normally found near the back of the computer case.
	Mouse:  A common input device used to tell a computer what it needs to do.  With the invention of the Macintosh and Windows operating systems, computer users needed a device to point at objects on the screen and select them.
	MS-DOS:  An older operating system that powered personal computers through their beginning years.  Prior to the development of the graphics-oriented Macintosh and Windows operating systems, this system relied on typing commands one line at a time to tell the computer what you wanted it to do.  This system is still in use in the Windows family of software and still has many practical uses.  Windows 3.1 relies on MS-DOS to operate.  MS-DOS stands for Microsoft-Disk Operating System.
	Network Card:  A card that can be installed in one of the motherboard slots to give the computer the ability to talk to other computers with similar cards.  A collection of similarly equipped computers connected by specially designed cables is known as a network.  The mechanism (including languages and protocols) used to communicate on a network are varied, but the most common networking designs in use are Ethernet and Token Ring.
	Operating System Software (OS):   The instructions that allow the computer to start working and permit it to run other programs.  The major OS software types include MS-DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT, Window XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Macintosh, UNIX, and LINUX.   The most popular OS in use at present is Windows 7.  Most computers come with one of these pre-installed.
	Platform:  The computer operating system and/or architecture.  Computers that are capable of running  MS-DOS, Windows 3.1 or Windows95/NT operating system software typically have the Intel 486/Pentium CPU.  Computers running the Macintosh operating system software have a Motorola 68xxx/PowerPC CPU.  For the most part, these platforms are incompatible as they have different rules and instructions for performing their tasks.
	Pentium - Pentium R:  Faster, larger CPU devices that are designed to allow more computing instructions to occur per second.  Most computers manufactured in the past 5 to 7years contain this device.
	Peripheral Device:  Any device that is connected to the computer in addition to the basic CPU-Monitor-Keyboard-Mouse configuration.  External speakers, microphones, joysticks, printers, and scanners are examples of peripherals.
	Printer:  A peripheral device that allows the computer user to produce paper copies of the information processed by the computer.  Common home printers spray ink on paper and are called ink-jet printers.  Office and school printers are typically laser printers which work on the same principle as a xerographic copy machine, using electrostatic charges and toner cartridges to place information on paper.
	Program:  A complex set of instructions that allow the computer user to process data.  Common programs include word-processing, spreadsheets, databases, drawing and painting, Internet tools, and games.   Programs are necessary for computers to be useful to humans.

RAM:  This acronym stands for Random Access Memory.  RAM is commonly called "memory".  Memory is measured in megabytes (MB) and usually comes in multiples of 2 or 4.  The more RAM that a computer has, the better it can carry out instructions.  It is recommended that a new computer have 512MB, 1GB-4GB of RAM.

Factors to Consider When Buying a PC

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.