Gigabytes Megabytes CPU's MHz's MMX and other crazy sounding terms will be part of the computer purchasing and usage experience. For help translating these terms see the computer dictionary.
When you decide to buy a computer the most important thing to do is to think about what you'll be using it for. Then figure out what software and accessories you are likely to be using, this will help you select the appropriate operating system and hardware.
"Software" or "programs" are instructions which teach your computer how to do something. Software is available for nearly any interest you may have.
The Computer
The operating system is the core software that runs every time the computer is started up. An operating system tells a computer how to save files, paint the screen and communicate with accessories and other computers. Examples of operating systems are Linux, Windows XP, Windows Server and the Macintosh OS.
Decide how much you're willing to spend on your machine and accessories. Budget some money for the fun stuff you will want.A super fast computer that has no software or accessories is about as useful as a car with no fuel.
Buying a computer without considering what accessories or software will be used leads to frustration and additional expense. Most software and accessory equipment will have the minimum system requirements listed on the box.
A budget model will probably cost between $700 and $1200 with a screen and without a printer. Anything less expensive may work but will probably be severely limited in capability and speed. Systems costing $3000 will probably appeal to the professional computer user or the die hard hobbyist and game player. Most people will actually do best with a system that is between $1200 and $3000.
These prices have remained pretty much constant over the time that I have been following computers (since 1978). What has changed is how much storage capacity, accessories and speed those dollars buy.
Be sure to bear in mind the cost of the software that you want when you compare computers. Many manufacturers offer systems which ship with bundled software which would cost hundreds or thousands of dollars if purchased separately. This can have a big impact on the total cost of a system.
The central processor unit or CPU is the "brains" of the computer. Processor speed is measured in MHz's or Megahertz and is usually the most touted feature of a computer. However higher processor speed doesn't mean everything, If you are just using the computer for data entry or simple tasks then a slower processor will do.
Intel or AMD processors are good choices. Most people will find that sweet spot between cost and performance by following this rule:
Choose the system speed in MHz (or GHz) two or three steps down from the top speed available at the time. If your bag is cutting edge games, or sophisticated graphics programs then go with a faster chip. If you are seriously budget conscious or need more accessories and funstuff then consider stepping down another notch or two in processor speed. If you are going to be running an operating system which supports multiple processors , such as Linux or windows NT, then seriously consider purchasing a multiprocessor system for performance.
Remember today's fastest computer will likely be next years average computer and in two years will be the closeout budget model. You could buy an average system every two or three years and come out way ahead on the price/performance curve. If a computer is over 4 or 5 years old it is probably worth replacing.
Computer memory is often confusing. Just remember that the more RAM (memory) your computer has the faster things will happen and the more things you can do at once on your computer. RAM is wiped clean when the computer is turned off. Hard disk capacity measures what your computer can store long term, RAM measures how many programs or documents can be opened simultaneously.
We would choose more RAM over a faster processor in most situations.
VRam or video ram relates to how much memory is dedicated to your video screen. The more Video memory the more colors and higher resolutions(more dots on screen) your computer can support. People who play games do artwork or work at high resolutions should purchase more VRam on a higher end video card
Video cards drive the graphics on your computer. Try to get card or slot-based video rather than a motherboard mounted so that you can upgrade or repair easily. AGP video cards with 2D and 3D acceleration help provide better performance for gaming and high end systems.
The hard disk or the hard drive is where all the information in the computer is stored when the computer is shut down. Your hard disk capacity should be a minimum of 6GB - we prefer to have much more disk space than you'd think you would ever use. It's somewhat like closet space, whatever you have you still could use more.
Look for a DVD-RW drive to be able to read create cd's and dvd's. Dual layer holds more. These things are great, they make it possible to hold the equivalent of over 5000 floppy disks (that's like a full file cabinet several stories high)
The monitor or screen in measured diagonally. A 17" screen is really nice to look at and fairly reasonable in price. Get a larger or smaller screen as your budget allows. I consider the Princeton Sony and NEC excellent choices. Quality screens will support higher refresh rates at high resolutions. Look at the screen and compare it with others it can be a personal choice. Look for a long warranty since screens do wear out and are expensive to repair.
Keyboard - Get whatever you like. Place it at elbow height to avoid repetitive stress injury.
Mouse - I like the Logitech and Microsoft Mice but get whatever you are comfortable with.
Back Up!
You should make regular backups or your computer system.
This is very important!!! Backing up your files could have you hundreds or thousands of dollars. It could save your job or mean the difference between staying in business or going belly up. Computers can and do break, become mis-configured, get lost or stolen. It is just a matter of time until this fact of life strikes you. Plan on it.
A backup system allows you to effectively copy the contents of your hard disk. That way if your computer starts having problems or your hard drive crashes(breaks) you can put things back to the way they were. A backup strategy is a must have for nearly all computers. Make it a Priority Item.
Getting Online
If you're planning to get on the Internet (and who isn't?), the computer will need some way to do so. Your options include dial-up modems, ethernet (Network Interface Card, or NIC) or wireless networking. Most computers available these days include both a dial-up modem and a network card. To achieve high-speed internet in your home, you will need to sign up for a cable modem or DSL connection. These "broadband" connections are very reasonably priced and available from communications companies (availability depends on your location). If you have a broadband connection of some type, you can connect using wireless networking (with the purchase of additional equipment).
Some businesses and consumers will need a more robust connection or a connection that can be shared between many users local network. This can be arranged for surprisingly little money. Ask us how if you think you might need such services.
Accessories
Printer - A color inkjet printer such as the Hewlett Packard 800 series of color desk-jets make an excellent choice for most home computers.
Sound - Get a good set of computer speakers. Or connect your sound card to a real stereo with a converter from computer speaker jack (walkman headphone size connector) to RCA connector female ends (available at Radio Shack and similar stores). I have been very impressed with the Altec Lansing ACS33 speakers.
Other Must Have Items
Cleansweep or another Uninstaller program - Install this before installing other programs on a new computer.
Antiviral software - Norton Antivirus or AVG with Web updates.
Printer cables and other accessories (commonly the printer cable isn't included with the printer).
Surge suppressor bar. This is the six outlet thingy that protects your computer from power spikes.
Seriously consider a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) if you live outside of the city or if your computer performs a critical function. They will provide valuable time to shut down the computer when the lights go out. Choose a model which provides brownout protection and can offer a connection a smart shutdown program to shut off your computer nicely in the event of an extended outage.
Additional Goodies
A scanner can be used to place images in your computer. With a modest investment of $150 or so your computer becomes a copier, a fax machine and your documents and email can be much cooler. Visioneer and HP make excellent scanners.
More software that is suited to your interests. Software programs are instructions which teach your computer how to do something. Software is available for nearly any interest you may have.
Better sound - Make music learn the guitar or make wild and crazy sounds. With the proper accessories your computer can be a full music recording studio and a synthesizer that can make any sound you can imagine.
Better game controls give your racing game a steering wheel or your flight simulator a cockpit. Feel the "force" when you do battle with the empire through a fancy joystick.
Digital cameras, sound devices, internet access, video editors, CD recorders, and many other accessories can make your computer more useful and and your pocket lighter.