Back to school computer guide
I find computer sales dizzying. So many numbers, technical terms and options that I get frustrated just browsing the computer ads! I know a lot of folks buy computers as part of their back to school shopping so I thought a basic guide would be useful.
I called Brian Markwalter, a techie at the Consumer Electronics Association, who just went through this process while sending his son off to college. Brian suggested checking with your child's school as a first step. Colleges often have minimum requirements that take out a lot of the guesswork. Look on the school's Web site or flip through your welcome packet.
If you are on your own, here are the nuts and bolts of what you need for a basic computer (word processing, Internet surfing, email, etc) and for a sophisticated computer (if you play a ton of video games).
Processor
"The processor is the brain," Brian says. "It is doing most of the work." Prices are closely tied to speed. Many systems will have more than one processor inside the computer, with names like dual core, core duo, quad core, which refers to how many processors are inside the machine. As computers get faster and faster, it is more efficient to delegate the work among multiple processors than increase the speed of a single processor. For a basic computer look for a minimum of 1 GHz. Gamers and users running more sophisticated applications will need 2 GHz and multiple processors.
Memory
"If don't have enough memory...
...you still won't have a fast enough system and you will be frustrated," Brian says. Memory, sometimes called ram, is like a scratch pad for the processor to store information before it is saved to the computer's hard drive. For instance, memory is used to display a picture that you have downloaded but not saved.
A basic computer needs 1 to 4 GB. Users who tend to have multiple windows open, play music and run programs at the same time will be best off with at least 2 GB. Gamers will need 6 to 8 GB. Keep in mind that you can upgrade your computer's memory with relative ease after purchasing it, unlike upgrading your hard drive.
Hard drive
For laptops, 250 to 500 GB should be sufficient. A more sophisticated user may need more than 500GB.
Monitor
Standard screen sizes for laptops will be 14 to 15.4 inches (which refers to the diagonal screen size). Bigger screens are available but usually mean added weight. Desktop monitors these days are mostly flat widescreens, as opposed to deep box monitors. Sizes between 17 and 20 inches are very popular. Bigger screen sizes and the price goes up very quickly.
Online networking
Make sure your computer has an ethernet jack. Whatever type of Internet service you buy (click here for a guide to that confusing process) will provide the needed equipment or tell you what to buy.
Battery
The standard battery laptops come with is usually sufficient, unless you travel for work or will need your computer in class all day. If you do upgrade, remember you are adding more weight.
Software
Chances are the software package that comes with the computer is not going to be enough. But college bookstores often have much better prices than regular retailers so check with them before you buy. Certain classes or fields of study may require specialized software.
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About The Bargain Hunter
Daily News staff writer Julia Scott loves to find bargains on everything from groceries to Gucci. Her tips will help keep your hard earned cash where it belongs - in your pocket.
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thank you for this
These days, most computers sell with 2 GB of memory or more, many with 3 GB. I definitely recommend 2 GB if you're going to be running Windows Vista.
And make sure you set aside $100 or so for a backup drive, or two. You can never have enough backups.
So... it's "Game On" time... Oh. I got it at which has one of the better interfaces for customizing your order. They also have the better deals when your putting everything together. You can buy these parts individually on pricewatch. com and save a few bucks but it's too much of a hassle for an entire PC.