| The popularity of home computers is growing all the time. In part
this is due to their cost, which continues to fall. However, it
is also a reflection of the increasing range of uses to which computers
can now be put. As well as the traditional applications of creating
spreadsheets, or writing with a word-processor, computers can be
used for a host of other things: surfing the internet, sending and
receiving emails, playing games, playing - and making - music, and
storing and editing digital pictures and videos.
How do they work?
Your computer will run a number of specialised programmes, also
known as 'applications'. Each is designed to perform a particular
set of functions, such as word processing or editing pictures.
These programs are supported by the computer's operating system,
the software that controls many of the computer's functions; examples
of operating systems include Microsoft's 'Windows' and Apple's
'Mac OS'. The brain of the system, on which the operating system
runs, is the CPU (Central Processing Unit), the computer's central
chip or microprocessor.
What to look for
With such a wide range of computers to choose from, asking yourself
the following questions will help narrow the field:
• What do you want to do with your computer? (Consider what you
might need in future, not just what your current needs are.)
• What software will you need to run - now and in future?
• Will the processing you need the computer to do be very complicated?
• Do you want a large monitor? Should it be a flat screen monitor?
• Do you want to connect to the internet or send emails?
• How much memory do you need for current and future uses?
• Does the software you want to run require a video and/or sound
card?
• What external devices do you want to be able to connect to your
computer? How many ports will you need to do this, and do you
know what type you need?
Once you have this information, consider these points
Windows PC or Apple Mac?
The operating system controls many of the computer's functions
and also acts as an interface between the user and the microprocessor.
There is a perennial debate over whether it is better to purchase
an Apple Macintosh ('Mac') or a PC ('personal computer'). Both
systems have their strengths and weaknesses and both have their
fans.
Both Macs and PCs can perform most tasks well. While strong pieces
of software have originated on each individual platform - e.g.
Adobe PhotoShop on the Mac - they have generally migrated across
to the other. They do have their particular areas of strength,
though. It is often argued that Macs have the upper hand when
it comes to the use of graphics-based applications, which is why
they are used so widely in sectors such as education and publishing.
By the same token, PCs are frequently regarded to have the edge
when it comes to running admin-based day-to-day business applications.
They are also more widespread amongst home users so compatibility
is less of an issue.
Processor
The Central Processing Unit (CPU or 'processor') is the 'brain'
of the computer that drives and controls all its functions. There
are a number of different processors. PC users have the choice
of chips from a number of manufacturers. Market leader Intel offers
the Pentium processor, or the latest Intel Core Duo processor
which is designed to cope better with running multiple applications.
Other, equivalent chips are supplied by AMD - the high-power Turion.
Apple computers have traditionally been supplied with Motorola
processors but are now embracing the Intel Core Duo as well.
Memory
You will need to consider the amount of hard disc space your computer
will need, and the amount of Random Access Memory (RAM).
Hard drive
This is the space where programs, files, data and documents are
stored. Hard drives come in different sizes, measured in gigabytes
(GB). Aim to buy at least 100GB of hard drive space, the more
the better, particularly if you will be using programs that use
a lot of disc space, such as images or MP3 files.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Also known as 'on-board' memory - RAM is used for processing and
storing the data that the computer is currently working with.
To operate efficiently a computer must have sufficient RAM otherwise
it will run too slowly. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB); 512MB
should suffice for most applications or tasks.
Disc drive
Your computer will be fitted with one or more of the following
types of disc drives:
• CD-ROM drive – Will read CDs containing new computer programs,
as well as playing music. The drives operate at different speeds.
• CD-RW drive - 'Writes to' (records onto) a blank CD, as well
as reading it. Useful for recording music from MP3 files or CDs,
subject to copyright.
• DVD ROM drive - A format which stores higher data storage capacity
than a CD-ROM drive - up to 4.7 gigabytes of data. Plays films
as well as reading CDs.
• DVD-RW drive - 'Writes to' (records onto) a blank DVD, as well
as reading it. Useful for burning home movies to DVD.
Other points to consider
Ports
In order to be able to connect and communicate with other devices
and to send and receive various types of information, a PC needs
a number of input and output channels, known as ports. You will
need to ensure your computer has sufficient ports, of the right
type, for the accessories you intend to plug into it. There are
a number of different types of port:
• Parallel - Typically used to connect to a monitor or older scanners
and printers.
• Serial ports - Mostly used for connecting to external modems
and handheld computers/PDAs.
• USB (Universal Serial Bus) – The most common method of connecting
printers, scanners and other USB peripherals like digital cameras
and hand held computers.
• Firewire/IEEE 1394 - A very fast method of file transfer, much
quicker than even USB speeds. To make use of this, both your computer
and accessory will need a Firewire/IEEE 1394 port. This is essential
when transferring video images to and from digital camcorders.
Modem
Normally built into the computer, a modem allows data to be transmitted
over phone lines via a conventional jack plug. It sends and receives
data and fax transmissions and connects to the internet for email
and net browsing. Modem speeds are measured in kilobytes per second
(Kbps). Most PCs come with a modem of 56Kbps. This is sufficient
for most uses but heavy users of the internet might want to consider
obtaining high-speed broadband internet access.
Upgradeability
If you think you are likely to need to increase the computer's
memory or processor in due course, check that the computer will
support upgrades. Many PCs can be upgraded, it is worth checking
if this is so.
Software
The majority of desktop computers come pre-loaded with some software,
including an internet browser and email program - eg. Microsoft's
Explorer and Outlook Express. Programs offering word processing,
spreadsheet and other basic administration tasks are particularly
popular - eg. Microsoft's Works package. The more comprehensive
Microsoft Office suite is normally available to buy separately.
Monitor
The computer's display screen will either be supplied with the
computer, or be available as a separate purchase.
|
