Hardware Introduction
The pages following this one describe the main components and what you need to know about them. What they do, and how it affects you and your particular computing requirements.
The main components that you need to be aware of when deciding your requirements are listed below in approximate order of importance to the average user.
Don't worry if you don't entirely understand, each component is described in more detail if you follow the links at the bottom of this and subsequent pages.
The display, otherwise known as a monitor or screen.
CRT or LCD? See it before you buy it or at least find a reliable review!
RAM (random access memory).
The more the better. 512MB is good, 1GB is better, 2GB is best. But it depends upon your usage.
Hard disk drive (HDD)
The bigger the better. 120GB or more.
CD drive or combination CD/DVD drive.
You need a drive which can read and write Rewritable CDs and DVDs. If you're planning an upgrade to Windows Vista you must have DVD capability.
CPU (central processing unit).
The brains of your computer. The latest and fastest carry a heavy price premium. Not necessary. Go with last year's model. Or even the year before's.
Graphics card (Video Display Adaptor).
Good to have, but you don't need an expensive card unless you have a particularly demanding graphics requirement: graphic design, CAD, high demand games or digital video.
Keyboard and mouse.
Don't buy junk — good stuff isn't expensive. The keyboard keys should have good "feedback" and not be too noisy. The mouse should feel comfortable in your hand and slide freely on most surfaces.
Printer and scanner.
You want a 4 or 5 cartridge inkjet printer. Steer clear of 3 cartridge printers.
What about all these sockets and cables?
That's all explained further along, starting here.
Should I buy a notebook PC?
It depends upon your budget, your space, and your mobility. More later.
These matters are all covered in detail on the following pages.
If you are about to buy a computer, or upgrade your existing computer, and you're not sure what you need, or even what you need to know, you should start on the page Buying a Computer.
