Desktop Decisions: How to pick the right desktop computer, the first time
By Brian Wasson
|
Buying a personal computer often turns out to be one of the most frustrating
purchasing decisions a consumer can make. The problem often can be traced
to a lack of adequate research and soul-searching before the purchase
is made. Armed with some key information, however, you can go elbow-to-elbow
with even the pushiest salesperson.
Know your processor
Before you begin, it's important to understand the most basic building block of computers: the processor. This is the "engine" that runs the computer. It's where calculations take place and information is processed. Although several types of processors are available, the most common are the Intel-made Pentium (commonly known as an "IBM compatible") and the PowerPC, a joint effort between Apple, IBM and Motorola.
A significant amount of testing has been done to determine which of the two processors is the fastest. The answer usually depends on whom you ask. The PowerPC has the promise to be the fastest processor on the block because it's RISC-based. RISC stands for "Reduced Instruction Set Computer" and means the processor requires fewer instructions to complete a task, which enhances its speed. The Pentium is the successor to Intel's long line of processors, including the 486 (which is still available). The industry buzz is that Intel's current line of processors has nearly reached its limit, and soon Intel will be moving to a RISC-based processor as well.
Although it's easy to find a computer with an Intel processor, PowerPC-based computers are available from only a handful of suppliers. Apple is the most prominent PowerPC manufacturer and is currently converting its entire Macintosh line to the PowerPC chip. (The new Apple computers are being sold under the name "Power Macintosh.") IBM also is making PowerPC computers on a more limited basis, and there are several smaller companies that are beginning to offer PowerPC "clones."
So, how do you determine which computer to buy? Either type of processor will serve the average user well. Pentium computers are usually less expensive than PowerPCs because of the enormous competition in the marketplace. Recently, prices of PowerPCs have been reduced drastically because Apple would like to see the Power Macintosh gain a higher market share.
Compatibility matters
Many people buy computers based on compatibility with existing systems, and this is an important point to consider. If you're purchasing an additional computer for an office that's already using one platform, then it only makes sense to continue with that platform. However, if you're just starting out, take a look at what both platforms can offer.
Some users will argue that a computer is only as good as the software (the programs or applications) that runs on it. Although this isn't always true, it's a good rule to follow when purchasing a computer because you want to be certain that the computer you buy can accommodate your software. Robert Lubrano, president of L&S Computer Consulting in North Wales, Pa., advises potential computer buyers to work backwards from what they want to do. "Make sure you get a computer that can run the software that you plan to use," he says.
Many programs are now available for both Windows and PowerPC-based systems. The systems have even become compatible; the Power Macintosh line can run Microsoft Windows, the dominant operating system for the Pentium.
After deciding which processor to buy, you'll find the rest of the purchasing decision less complicated. Both the Pentium and the PowerPC processors are rated based on clock speed, which provides a benchmark of how fast a particular processor is compared with other processors in the same family. For example, a Pentium 90 will be faster than a Pentium 60. The same is true for the PowerPC processor. However, don't assume that a Pentium 100 will be as fast as a PowerPC 100. Differences in processor design affect actual processing speed. The clock speed should be used only as a reference point when choosing a specific processor.
Don't forget memory
The processor is only one part of the computer. Memory, in the form of hard drives and RAM (Random Access Memory), also is required. The hard drive is where software and personal files are stored for repeated retrieval. Think of is as a filing cabinet. RAM is memory that is more instant and volatile. When something is retrieved from the hard drive, it's stored in RAM for usage. RAM is similar to the top of your desk; you can take a file from the filing cabinet (hard drive) and place it on your desk (RAM). When you're finished with it, you put it back into the filing cabinet for safekeeping. Hard drives and RAM both are rated in "megabytes" (commonly shortened to "megs" or "MB"), a measurement of the amount of information they can hold.
The amount of information that can be stored depends on the size of the hard drive. Just as a four-drawer file cabinet holds more than a two-drawer file cabinet, a larger hard drive holds more than a smaller hard drive. The simple rule is to buy as big a hard drive as you can afford. As software becomes more complex it needs more memory. A 500MB drive should be considered a bare minimum; a 730 MB or a 1,000MB hard drive is preferable.
RAM is a different story. Although it's true that the more RAM your computer
has the more efficient it will be, you don't need anywhere near as much
RAM capacity as hard-drive capacity. Only information that's currently
being used is stored in RAM. The rest is stored on the hard-drive for
future use. For this reason, you can usually get away with as little as
8MB of RAM (some computers still come with 4MB of RAM, but always look
for at least 8MB). If possible, upgrade to 16MB of RAM at the time of
purchase, as it's almost a sure bet that next year's software will require
it.
Making the upgrade
If you already have a computer and want to upgrade it to handle newer software, there are several options. Depending on your computer, you may be able to upgrade the processor to a faster clock speed or even to a completely new type of processor. Processor upgrades are most commonly available for Intel-based processors. These upgrades often double the clock speed of your existing processor. It's also possible to upgrade certain Macintosh models to a PowerPC processor.
Increasing both the hard-drive capacity and the amount of RAM installed in your computer also are common upgrade strategies. Both are fairly simple procedures and can add new life to your otherwise outdated computer.
RAM is easily upgraded via SIMMs, or Single Inline Memory Modules. These small cards simply pop into existing slots in your computer. SIMMs can be purchased in various configurations, so it's best to speak with a knowledgeable computer service technician to find out which is the best fit for your system.
Hard-drive capacity can be increased only by adding a new hard drive. Depending on your computer, you may need to either replace your existing drive or add another one. Be sure to get the largest hard drive you can afford, as software storage requirements are on a continual upward spiral. Luckily, hard-drive prices have plummeted in the past year, making large hard drives more affordable.
The bottom line is that today's trend-setting computer is tomorrow's door-stop. To maximize your substantial investment, it's important to carefully consider both your present and future needs and to do your homework. Check out both local and mail-order retailers, compare prices, selection and service, take a deep breath and make your choice.
A common saying in the computer industry is that the best time to buy a computer is when you need it. Given society's increased reliance on computers, the best time to buy could be now!
# # #