Factors to consider when buying a
PC/laptop
It's important to buy a laptop or PC that can cater to your needs. With the
technology out there you can certainly find something you want and need. You
can easily go into a shop and get overwhelmed and confused with all the
different brands, sizes, prices, memory etc. These are just some factors to
consider if you are a Psychology student looking for a computer or laptop!
Price/Budget:
Ask yourself how much you want or can spend on your computer or laptop. The
different options you go for can change the price greatly!
Usage: What are you using this computer for? University assignments and
going on the web? Or are you going to be gaming online? If you are only using
it for assignments and going online you won't need a high speed Wi-Fi or good
quality graphics card. You would spend more on the GPU than the CPU for gaming.
Operating System:
Most PC sold in shops has Microsoft’s consumer operating system. Windows XP
Home or Vista Home Basic is good if all you need is write documents, spread
sheets, e-mail, and use the Internet. Many have discovered the business
versions of Microsoft’s operating system offer many features and they might
need it a few years down the road! So be sure when buying a laptop that it
comes with the Microsoft operating system that you need! But like I said
Windows XP Home or Vista Home Basic is all you would need as a Psychology
student!
CPU: There is
dual-core and quad-core CPU. If you're not running intensive, threaded
applications you won't need a quad-core processor. Intel’s new Core 2 Duo CPUs
apparently perform exceptionally well and should be good for you guys doing
this course!
RAM/Memory:
Memory is really important! If you want to have a good performance and being
able to run things simultaneously this is crucial! Many Windows Vista laptops
have 1GB of RAM but this typically won't be enough. The normal would be 2GB of
RAM if you like to keep multiple windows open while reading your email, surf
the internet and work on your assignments!
Screen size/weight:
Make sure to select the right size of the screen and weigh of your laptop
before purchasing. For example, a 17ich widescreen could be great but it could
be too big. You'll be traveling with your laptop and17inch could just be too
big to carry with you on the train, airplane or in class! 12inch models are
much easier to carry and much lighter!
Wireless: Make
sure your laptop contains the Wi-Fi technology you use! Integrated 802.11g wireless
is great! MAKE SURE you read the specification closely to make sure the Wi-Fi
requirements is what you need and want!
Battery life:
Battery life is very important. There are a few options for battery life. You
can either buy two batteries and you can switch when one goes dead. However,
this could be a hassle and if you don't want to do this, you can upgrade to 9
or 12 cell batteries instead of the standard 6 cell batteries. Bigger batteries
almost always last longer! Also look out for battery capacity!
References: http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/10things/10-things-to-look-for-in-a-laptop/250
http://h20271.www2.hp.com/SMB-AP/cache/317127-0-0-155-121.html
http://h20271.www2.hp.com/SMB-AP/cache/317127-0-0-155-121.html
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