Chapter 3:How to Speak Geek andMake Informed Purchasing Decisions : Chapter 3:How to Speak Geek andMake Informed Purchasing Decisions Computer Literacy
Introduction : Introduction Performance: Speed, Capacity, and Sophistication
The Right Tool for the Job: Choosing the Best Computer for Your Needs
Other Factors to Consider
Performance Issues : Performance Issues Complex interaction among components, such as CPU, RAM, hard drive, video card, and monitor
Three factors to consider:
Speed
Capacity
Sophistication
Potential Bottlenecks : Potential Bottlenecks
Performance: Speed : Performance: Speed Measured in Hertz
One hertz (Hz) = one cycle per second
One kilohertz (KHz) = 1000 Hz
One megahertz (MHz) = 1,000,000 Hz
One gigahertz (GHz) = 1,000,000,000 Hz
Typical CPU today runs between 2-3 GHz
Performance: Capacity : Performance: Capacity Hard drive
RAM
Measured in bits and bytes
One bit = either a 1 or 0
One byte = 8 bits
One kilobyte (KB) = 1024 bytes
One megabyte (MB) = 1024 KB
One gigabyte (GB) = 1024 MB
Performance: Capacity : Performance: Capacity Hard drives
Storing OS and programs
Storing data
Used by CPU for temp storage
RAM
Used by CPU for running programs
Performance: Sophistication : Performance: Sophistication Can the processor handle the job?
CPU variations
Video card processor variations
Branding issues: How can you tell which CPU or card is better at this moment?
Web sites like Ars Technica can help
www.arstechnica.com
Look for “Guides”
Choosing the Best Computer for You : Choosing the Best Computer for You Operating system
Windows
Macintosh
Linux
Choosing the Best Computer for You : Choosing the Best Computer for You Form Factor
Desktop
Laptop
Choosing the Best Computer for You : Choosing the Best Computer for You Hardware needs
Any computer can handle office tasks
Specialized hardware required for gaming and multimedia
Software needs
Bundled software
Essential add-ons
Other Factors to Consider : Other Factors to Consider Warranty
Tech support
Compatibility with other computer equipment
Recycling