Computer Purchase Suggestions

A new computer should meet a user's needs for at least the next three years.   Consider these suggestions for your next computer purchase.

Computer Types
IBM-compatible personal computers (PC's) are more common in the business world.  Apple Macintosh computers are well-integrated and very friendly to new users.  Consider buying the same type as used by your friends or colleagues.

Chassis
The chassis is the case that holds the computer components.  Tower models have more room for expansion.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the brain of the computer.  Most users do not need the fastest one on the market.

Motherboard
This is a board containing slots that connect other components to the CPU.  But a computer that has one or more extra slots to add future components.

Random Access Memory (RAM)
This is the memory used during computer operations. 

Fixed Drive (Hard Drive)
This device stores information when the computer is turned off

Floppy Disk Drive
These older storage devices were used to exchange information with other computer users.  They have been replaced by CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drives

DVD Drive
DVD-ROM drives have replaced the older CD-ROM format on most new computers.  These drives can read and write disks in the older CD-ROM format

Blue-Ray Drive
Some computers are now equipped with drives that can read and write disks in the high capacity Blue-Ray video format

Video Card
The video card sends signals from the computer to the video display and contain extra memory capacity to speed up the transfer.  Models with a separate video card are recommended

Sound Card
The sound card controls input from microphones and other audio deviced and sends sound signals to the speakers.  Models with a separate sound are recommended.

Network Connections
Most computers are capable of connecting to a local network or high-speed Internet service

Keyboard
The keyboard is used to type information into the computer.  All keyboards have a different feel, so try several before you buy.  For heavy use, consider an ergonomic keyboard or add a wrist support

Mouse
The mouse is used to control the pointer on the video screen.  Most mice now have a have scrolling capability and use an optical sensor, rather than a rolling ball.

Speakers
Speakers play the sound generated by the sound card.  Upgrade to higher-quality speakers if you plan to use the computer for music or games.

Video Display
Most video displays are now the space-saving flat-screen type.  Wide-screen displays are now available for showing movies.

USB Ports
Universal Serial Bus ports are used to connect external devices to a computer.  Be sure that the computer has enough ports to meet your current and future needs.

Printer
Individual requirements vary widely.  A laser printer produces the best black and white text output.  Color laser printers are also available.  Inkjet printers are less expensive

Scanner
Scanners convert printed text and pictures into computer files.  They often come with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) that converts an image into text.  Some can scan documents directly into the popular PDF portable document format.

Microphone
A microphone can be added to a computer if you plan to use it to record speach or music.  A microphone is usually included with most voice recognition software packages.

Earphones
Earphones allow you to listen to the computer without disturbing your family or co-workers.

Camera
Some laptop computers include a built-in camera for Internet video-conferencing.  Cameras can also be purchased as an add-on device that sits on top of the video display..