SMB Technology
Three steps to buying the right computer for your business
Computers are an integral part of a successful business. But for many business owners, the speed and range of advances in technology make it difficult to answer the question: What is the right computer for my business? But it doesn’t have to be so hard.
Find the right computer for your business in three quick and easy steps.
You’d never buy a car without doing some research. So, when you think about how important a computer is to your business, it makes sense to get the facts before you upgrade.
But if you’re running a business, you’ve got enough on your plate without spending hours deciphering what RAM means, or gigahertz do, and how they can help your business. So we’ll do it for you.
1) Understand the terminology and what it means for your business - first things first
The processor, also known as the CPU or chip, is the ‘brain’ of the computer. It controls everything the computer does. So, if you’re looking for a computer that can keep up with you and your business, the right processor is vital.
Tip: Upgrading a processor can be expensive and complex. Buy the best processor you can afford.
The Intel® Core™ i5 Processor, part of the latest offering from the inventors of the processor, is designed to help your business work faster by working smarter. Intel® Turbo Boost Technology diverts power from applications not in use, providing extra performance to get the job done faster.
The HDD is like the computer’s long term memory. It acts like a filing cabinet, storing information. Naturally, this is important for any business to run efficiently. The capacity of a HDD is measured in gigabytes.
Tip: You can upgrade the HDD, or add an external drive later for extra storage capacity. As a guide, 160GB of HD memory is recommended when purchasing a PC.
RAM can be thought of as the computer’s short term memory. RAM is used to process what the user is doing at that point in time. For example, browsing a website, viewing a presentation or sending emails.
Tip: Get the right amount of RAM for how you will use your computer. More memory can be added later on. Generally speaking, 2GB of RAM is adequate for most PC use.
Gigahertz (GHz) or clock speed is the speed a processor runs. So they play a big part in how quickly a processor executes a given task, or better still, multiple tasks.
Tip: A higher number of GHz does not guarantee better performance. The latest technology lets new processors do more with less.
Integrated graphics are built into your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), such as Intel HD graphics available on select models of the Intel Core processor family. Integrated graphics are suitable for everyday tasks. Discrete graphics are ideal for 3D games and professional designers.
Tip: Integrated graphics are perfect for viewing high-def video, photo and presentations.
If you take your business on the road, this one answers itself. But if you’re stuck at a desk and not sure, here’s something to think about.
| Pros | Cons | |
| Laptop |
Mobility – go where you want Flexibility – work anywhere Increases in battery life Smaller size |
Battery life Small monitor Upgrading can be more difficult |
| Desktop |
Performance and efficiency Multimedia power Ease of upgrading More for less – real bang for your buck |
Lack of mobility Takes up more space |
3) Make a smart choice for today. And for the future.
Intel, the inventors of the processor, offer a range of computing power to help you run your business at full speed. Remember to think ahead when you buy, and get a processor with the intelligence to keep up today, and as your business grows in the future.
Download your FREE SMB buyer’s tips guide (intel.com.au/smb) and take it with you when you buy.
Download this one-page poster (intel.com.au/buysmart) for a summary of this terminology and what you should look for when buying a business computer.
Published on: Saturday, August 28, 2010
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