Have you ever been shopping for a desktop computer and been confused at all the different specs on the spec sheet? What is really important, and what isn't? Let's look at some of the different desktop specs so you know what they all mean and how they can help you get a better computer.
The main components required by any desktop to function are: the processor, memory, the motherboards, graphics cards, hard drive, monitor, removable storage, and operating system. There are also many other components that are necessary like the sound cards, case, communications systems, and peripherals like keyboards and mice that may be needed to use the computer, but don't actually define it. Exactly which components the consumer adds to the computer, however, will be dictated by that's user's individual needs.
When it comes to processors, there are a lot to choose from these days. It really comes down to what each user needs. If you're just going to be using office applications and the internet, you won't need as much as a serious gamer or graphic designer. These users will need something much more powerful. Keep this in mind when looking at things like dual-core and quad-core processors.
Another very important aspect of a desktop computer is memory. One type of memory is called RAM. The more RAM you have, the more smoothly your applications will run. But, just like processors, if you are not producing multimedia or gaming, you won't need to have a ton of extra RAM. 2GB is a good starting point for Windows Vista and Windows XP.
It wasn't too long ago that the only people concerned with graphic and sound cards were gamers. But these days with more and more applications relying on multimedia, graphic and sounds cards are very important. Gamers will still want to make sure they have top-of-the-line cards, but the standard user can probably get by with basic cards.
There are a large number of components that go into a desktop computer, and the features here only start to scratch the surface. The good news is that the modular nature of desktop computers allows them to be customized and upgraded to meet individual needs. Not enough hard drive space? Move up from the standard 200GB model to a full terabyte. Still dealing with the original CD-ROM drive? Add a new DVD drive. The desktop specs that are considered "standard" today will likely change tomorrow. Having a desktop computer will allow a user to keep up will the trends and advancements in the industry.
The main components required by any desktop to function are: the processor, memory, the motherboards, graphics cards, hard drive, monitor, removable storage, and operating system. There are also many other components that are necessary like the sound cards, case, communications systems, and peripherals like keyboards and mice that may be needed to use the computer, but don't actually define it. Exactly which components the consumer adds to the computer, however, will be dictated by that's user's individual needs.
When it comes to processors, there are a lot to choose from these days. It really comes down to what each user needs. If you're just going to be using office applications and the internet, you won't need as much as a serious gamer or graphic designer. These users will need something much more powerful. Keep this in mind when looking at things like dual-core and quad-core processors.
Another very important aspect of a desktop computer is memory. One type of memory is called RAM. The more RAM you have, the more smoothly your applications will run. But, just like processors, if you are not producing multimedia or gaming, you won't need to have a ton of extra RAM. 2GB is a good starting point for Windows Vista and Windows XP.
It wasn't too long ago that the only people concerned with graphic and sound cards were gamers. But these days with more and more applications relying on multimedia, graphic and sounds cards are very important. Gamers will still want to make sure they have top-of-the-line cards, but the standard user can probably get by with basic cards.
There are a large number of components that go into a desktop computer, and the features here only start to scratch the surface. The good news is that the modular nature of desktop computers allows them to be customized and upgraded to meet individual needs. Not enough hard drive space? Move up from the standard 200GB model to a full terabyte. Still dealing with the original CD-ROM drive? Add a new DVD drive. The desktop specs that are considered "standard" today will likely change tomorrow. Having a desktop computer will allow a user to keep up will the trends and advancements in the industry.
About the Author:
Before you buy a desktop, you need to know what you're getting. If you can understand the different specs you can get one that is right for you.