I would like to know what specs are appropriate when purchasing a new computer?

Question

I'm currently looking to purchase a new desktop computer from Dell. The computer will be used mainly for basic things like word processing, online poker, and general internet access. It will not be used for video or high tech gaming. What sort of memory, speed, hardware accessories, and other items will I need?

They say to stay away from the Celeron prosessor right?

Answer 1

YOu want to get a computer which will do all your tasks and still be a good computer a couple of years down the road.

What would be good is the following

Mid RAnge CPU Chip (AMD K7 or ATHLON 3500 or thereabouts, Pentium 4 running 1 Ghz or approx.) No need for Dual Core

511 Meg RAM
Windows XP (No need for Vista)
40-80 Gig Drive.
AGP Graphics card with 16-32 Meg VRam (may or may not be 'onboard") Brand is unimportant as you do not plan on heavy graphics or gaming.

A good monitor is essential, but the best deals these days are with the Flat Panel Monitors. Check out a possible upgrade to larger sizing if you feel the need. (My wife loves her 19", but I'm happy with a 17")

The usual stuff like USB ports and Parallel ports are good for connecting to printers and the like - Be sure your printer can connect to the computer. (Some printers require USP where others require standard Printer Ports. Make sure that the two are compatible).

You may want an Onboard LAN connection for connecting to a Cable Modem or DSL.

You may also want USP ports on the front for easy access as well as Microphone and Headset connector also on the front.

You may want to check out any package deal which will include the printer or even a Printer/Fax/Scanner all in one unit.

Lastly, never let someone talk you into a machine which you cannot really afford. Yes, there are neat new things, but if you really don't have use for them, then paying for them is a waste of money. Stick to your budget.

Answer 2

Pretty much any computer will do. If you want Windows XP or Windows Vista, you will want the minimum required for that software. The Microsoft Office suite will definitely have less requirements than the actual OS software. Try these min/specs:

CPU 300MHz or greater, preferably 1GHz or greater. Celeron is fine.

RAM - 256MB or greater

Hard drive space - 1.5 GB req'd, recommend an 80 GB HDD

CDRW/DVD combo drive minimum

Keyboard/Mouse/Monitor


That will get the job done. If you want to upgrade in the future for gaming, that is easily done. Just ask again on Y! Answers.

Answer 3

For basic computer and online work you'll probably want;
good processor speed, say 2.90 ish to 3.00+,
good ram; 512 or more..
good memory 80 to 160 gigs,
Windows XP any edition- you can upgrade to Service Pack2 online
a good graphics card with OpenGL function, Nvidia is good, there are many good cards though, most new desktops have good graphics cards.
LCD monitor--- not essential, you could go with the older monitor though.
a dvd burner/player -- never know when you'll need one, keyboard, mouse, speakers - if you play games you'll want sound, printer if you want to print.
There's nothing wrong with the Celeron processor.

Answer 4

To get the most out of a new computer, it is best to stay ahead a few years. As the "basic" computer will be all but obsolete in a few years.
With that said I would settle for no less than:
2.0 GHz
80GB
516MB w/ an open slot for future upgrade
DVD+/-RW for data back-ups (one DVD holds about 7 CDs)
some media card readers and front side usb ports would be nice too.

Answer 5

You can do that with the lowest available spec.

For example, the entry level Dell Dimension C521 would be just fine.

Answer 6

I agree. Go with the budget model dimension desktop