Computer Buying Guide

At some point in your life you know you want to purchase that state-of-the art desktop PC or laptop. However you're looking at your budget and realizing that you have a limit on what you can spend for the latest computing machine. At Cowboom.com you will find a wide variety of computers in different conditions at great prices. Before you take a browse through product listings, review this handy guide to better assist your purchase decision.

Computers 101

Welcome to the Cowboom Classroom. The fact that you are reading this guide shows you have interest in purchasing a computer. Allow this guide to further your decision as some of the basic make-up of a computer is explained. All computers obtain the following components:

  1. Processor
  2. Memory
  3. Hard Drive
  4. Optical Drive
  5. External Connections

Processor

A crucial component to the operations of a PC (personal computer) or laptop (mobile computer), the processor serves the as the mastermind. The entire unit is run by the processor. This component not only allows the overall operations of the computer, it even designates the speed of each operation. Essentially, the newer the computer, the faster the processor should run. A pre-owned computer will have a slightly slower processor as it has been operated more than a newer computer. Also referred as the CPU (central processing unit), it may either be a single or dual core processor. The dual core processor is essentially two processors working together to create a higher flow of operations. The speed and multi-tasking capabilities of a dual processor are very extensive. Most current laptops operate on a dual-processor. Running at 64-bit, you will find the dual-processor a possible better investment. Many desktop PC's operate on a single core processor at 32-bit, however an easy upgrade to a 64-bit processor may be a valuable investment as well, to be ready for current 64-bit OS and applications. Two companies to keep in mind when considering a new processor or researching a processor in a current computer are Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). Both companies offer a variety of processors for most computers in both the 32-bit or 64-bit versions. Keep in mind that when viewing a product listing, that the processor should either have the Intel or AMD description next to it.

Memory and Hard Drive

As you view product listings, you will see several abbreviations that are of high importance when it comes to understanding the computer's memory. Let the following act as your legend:

The MB's and GB's of the PC are consisted within the RAM. For example you may see a product listing that states it has 1GB of RAM. That is the memory size that can be found in the RAM of the PC. A gigabyte is 1,000 megabytes. So, if you notice a computer has 1 GB, it will be a larger memory than a computer with only 512 MB. Depending on the applications you want to use on your computer, the size of the memory is very important. If you are just operating basic applications such as Microsoft Office, browsing the internet, email, etc. you won't need a larger memory than a basic 512MB of RAM. However if you want a computer for gaming purposes, you will want to make sure you have at least 1 GB or higher to get the ultimate satisfaction. Many PC games will not operate properly or at all on a computer with less than 1GB of RAM. Depending on the game or game features you may even need a memory at 2GB or higher. It is important to read the exact specifications on the type of games you want to play before you purchase your computer. Also, you will need to purchase a high-end video card to ensure that the graphics of your game are crisp. If you are wanting a high multimedia PC, than you want to consider one with a larger or external hard drive with higher memory at least 8.5 GB. Multimedia PC's should also have larger screens such as LCD to ensure quality multimedia work.

Optical Drive

Every modern computer will have a drive to play your CD's or DVD's. This is called the optical drive. This drive will also be labeled as the CD-ROM and DVD-RW, each optical drive on various computers function in different ways. For example if you have a PC that only has a CD or DVD-ROM, the unit can only read the disc and display the audio and/or visual images. This is simply for viewing or listening capabilities. Most computers will have this basic function. Newer models as of late are created with either a DVD-RW or DVD+RW capability. These are created to write images or audio onto blank CD's or DVD's. This is also a burning capability. Such as if you download music from I-tunes onto your Hard Drive, you will be able to burn the music onto a blank CD to listen in your car or other CD player. When it comes to writing media onto DVD's there is a difference between the DVD-RW and DVD+RW. The main difference is just the companies who create the discs for the drive. They are different formats. It is important when purchases discs for this drive to note whether you have a – or + DVD RW drive, as the disc must be the same to be compatible. If not, the writing onto the wrong disc will not properly work.

External Connections

Understanding the external connections on your PC is essential when buying other devices or accessories. Most modern computers will have at least two USB connections. This is a common port used on many external devices, such as mice or gaming controllers. Finding a desktop or laptop with multiple USB connections will make for an easier set up when using multiple devices. Firewire is another important connection on your desktop or laptop. Its purpose is to act as a transfer for video or imaging files on various formats. From HD, SD, or DV assistance or basic video features, this connection acts as a high-speed service for all types of multimedia. Alright, the lesson on the basic components of the computer is done, now on to browsing Cowboom.com for your computer! Class Dismissed!



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