Desktop PC Recommendations
The system specification outlined here is intended to be a general purpose PC suitable for word processing, home office, Web browsing, programming, games, etc. A system following these guidelines should cost between $800-$1200. For desktop publishing, graphic design, or CAD work, an additional 256MB of memory at a cost of around $50 would be helpful. Upgrades in monitor size and video card might also be considered for these graphics intensive tasks.
All components have a short explanation available by clicking on them. This may be helpful in choosing a system that doesn't match these specifications.
If you are buying your computer from a major PC manufacturer, it may be very difficult to find the specifications for each component. If this is the case, just compare what you can find to the list below and then try to find reviews of the specific models in which you're interested in PC related magazines or web sites.
| COMPONENT | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|
| I/O | USB 2.0 Connectors. Firewire (IEEE 1394) port optional. |
| CPU | Intel Pentium IV, AMD Athlon 2.4 GHz equivalent or faster |
| Memory | 512MB |
| Case, Power Supply | Mid tower layout |
| Hard Drive | 60GB or larger |
| Removable Storage | CD-RW/DVD-ROM combo drive. Optional DVD-RW if you want to burn DVD discs. |
| Optical Drive | 5x or faster DVD ROM (optional if DVD+/-RW already included) |
| Video Card | Integrated, AGP or PCI-E video with 32MB or more memory |
| Keyboard | 101 Keyboard layout. Consider an ergonomic keyboard if you do a lot of typing. |
| Sound Card | Built-in or PCI. Digital outputs are nice when matched with digital speakers or digital stereo equipment. 3D positional effects are desirable for games. |
| Speakers | Listen before you buy if possible. 3 piece systems with subwoofer are usually better for music/multimedia. 5.1 systems are nice for home theater setups. Speakers built in to the monitor are great for reducing desk clutter. |
| Mouse | Microsoft mouse compatible with scroll wheel |
| Operating System | Windows XP Home or Windows XP Professional Monitor |
| Monitor | 15" or greater LCD flat panel monitor. Strongly recommend DVI connection if supported by your video card |
| Ethernet Card* | Integrated or PCI 10/100/1000 ethernet card |
| Modem** | V.92 external or internal. Not needed for DSL or Cable Modem connections. |
| Warranty | 1 year or longer |
*If computer will be using the Ethernet for
connecting.
**If computer will be using phone lines for
connecting.
