Guide to buying a new computer.(PC) For anyone!

paintballove · #1 17-09-2007, 10:48 PM

Buying a new system can be called difficult.

I see where you're coming from.

So I've written this simple guide to computer buying.

What will you be using it for?
This question is, perhaps, the most important question along your journey.

To see possible uses go down, they'll be in simple bold. Also, some key terms you may not have heard of will be listed as well. So! Let's get started! (**This is my first computer guide, so don't be too harsh :eek: )

Simply browsing the internet, email tasks, school work, etc..
These computers may be among the most common today. Alot of people use them simply because they're getting cheaper and cheaper, while the performance specifications get higher. These computers may have basic processors, such as the AMD Athalon 64 series, or the single core Intel Pentium family.
For more info on these computers, you can visit Best Buy, Circuit City, and other electronics stores.
-Price Range(With monitor & Keyboard/mouse) = $500-750
-RAM Needed = 256-1GB
-Graphics Needed=low-middle end.
-Common Manufacturers= HP, Compaq/, Dell, eMachines, gateway

Intermediate use
What do I mean by 'Intermediate use?' What I'm referring to is things such as normal, usually DirectX8-9 games, or more advanced programs, differential to basic home computing. The computers are often referred to as 'media centers', as they're great for managing pictures, movies, songs, etc...
These are the computers you may want to get if you want a system that will last you and serve as an all-around computer. Processors in these systems are usually seen to be middle or high performance. The AMD Live! Series, or the Dual-Core Centrino Intel series.
-Common price = $650-1500
-Ram Needed = 512MB=2GB
-Common manufacturers= HP, Dell, Sony

High end-Gaming uses
Alas. Here's where you can really sink your teeth into. A good gaming rig is the weaponry behind a gamer's pwnage. These series (Usually Desktop) are built for one thing: To be sleek and fast. These computers commonly have a DirectX10 Video card installed into them, can feature liquid cooling, neat-o window computer cases with LEDs, and much more. While quite a few people like to build a machine like this from the ground-up, you can find people to build them for you. For these beasts, you may want to check out the AMD FX 64 series(Dual core) or possibly The QUAD core Intel processors.
-Common Prices=$1200-5500(Depending on where you got it)
-RAM needed=1-4GB(Most say you don't need over two)
-Common manufacturers= Custom by people, AlienWare, VooDoo, Vigor

Some key terms/tips

What's DirectX, and how does it affect my computer?
Direct X Handles graphically demanding programs by Microsoft, so in short, it 'makes the stoof look better', you could say.

What, exactly, is RAM?
RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It temporarily stores data, and is allowed to access that data in a random order, hence, RAM. In short, it will allow applications and your multitasking experience to run smoother.

How much RAM do I need?
Well, like said above, your amount of RAM needed depends on the kind of system you're planning to use. For higher-end, more demanding applications, I'd suggest quite alot of RAM.

You didn't mention too much about video cards, how important are they?
Video cards make the beauty, and some of the smoother FPS in your games. The video card can connect to your computer via PCI slots. Some video cards even include TV tuners on them, usually in 'media center' PCs. The type of video card you need, again, depends on your application's demands. To play DirectX10 Games that will soon come out, you will need a DirectX 10 video card. Video cards use RAM, too. Video Cards aren't TOO expensive, except for some DX(Direct X) 10 cards. I personally use a Nvidia 7300 GT, and it runs my games alright. Use a basis off of that.

How long can I expect my system to last? Does brand name matter?
-To be honest, brand name doesn't matter so much as how you take care of your system. Most parts come from the same factories in Asia anyhoo, so it's really all about the specifications.
In terms of of protection, I personally use Ad-Aware for adware problems. Your computer should come with basic anti-virus, but you may have to subscribe to it. If so be the case, research anti-virus tools, but you should get suggestions from people here on RSF, as some are pure junk.

Tips While Buying
Here's some guidelines/Tips to follow whilst buying.

Online purchases
-Shop around. Many online stored can vary greatly. Once I found a $100-150 price difference on a system.
-Use only 'LEGIT' Sites, make sure they have encrypted keys.

In-Store Purchases
-The salespeople in stores USUALLY know what they're talking about. However, they sometimes like to set you up with alot of extras. These are only to your benefit, but they can get pricey.
-Like online, shop around. Research local stores in your area if possible, as they can have some good deals. Check ads in the newspaper (Sunday is really good because of it's weekly specials.

Updates Credit:
Woody, for the idea on the video cards and the idea to link the manufacturers. Thanks man

**MUCH more to come!, I have to get off... Too tired. Enjoy for now, will update everyday until I finish. I may let this thread die and post a V2 Version

Woody · #2 17-09-2007, 11:49 PM

Nice guide you get my +rep

Few things to change/add:
Video Cards: Most premade computers dont come with top of the line cards, you may have to upgrade manually
Link us Up, you mention a few brands and companies why not let us find them fast
DirectX10 is Vista only as far as I know
Pictures, not needed but visual candy is always nice