Buying a New
Computer
| We're talking about desktop personal computers (also
known as micro computers) . . . . . . First things first
. . . . Comfort is
the key here - be concerned with ergonomics. Now you want to make sure you have good visibility too. We're talking about the monitor. Go with a .28 dot pitch monitor (your eyes will love you for it). On monitor size....consider how many people will be viewing at one time. Start with a 14" monitor. You've kicked the tires and now let's talk about what's under the hood. Start with a Pentium Based 100 Mhz processor (this is akin to how fast the machine can think). Use Windows 95 and for your RAM(Random Access memory) go with 16 Megabytes. For the data storage / harddrive - look at a base of 800 Megabytes. 1.2 Gigabytes (which is 1,200 megabytes) if you'll be using your computer for business purposes. CDROM is a must. There are 12 speeds but a 4speed CDRom is what I'd actually recommend. 3.5" Disk Drive for saving files and taking them to another computer. Multimedia---get the sound card with speakers. This is almost considered standard equipment in the retail market and the price is excellent. Our favorite component - is naturally the modem. Make sure the computer is equiped with a 28.8 modem. Stay away from a 14,400 modem. If you are swayed to do so, you will want to upgrade the first time you use it. You will want some expandability in the event that you'd like to add some accessories later-on. This might include more memory or even a scanner for digitizing photographs. Last but definitely not least, don't forget about where you will be placing the computer. Consider creature comfort and environmental factors such as "will the reflection of a window cause unwanted glare". In summary:
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