Lecture 18 Ch 17 Flashcards
What is the wrong way to select a computer system
- buying a system based only on price
- being influenced by sales hype
- purchasing a system without prior knowledge
What is the right way to select a computer system
- knowing computer terminology
- understanding the relative value of system components
- determining software needs and the system required to fulfill those needs
Notebooks?
- rival the power of a desktop machine, yet more expensive
- portability and size are main advantages
Net books?
- lighter and smaller than a notebook
- longer battery life
Desktop?
- Not as portable, but have more processing speed and RAM
- can have larger internal drive
What are the two main computer system platforms?
Windows (PC) and Mac
-users are loyal
Differences between Macs and PCs (software)
Software
-more software is developed for PCs- more popular
~although popular packages, such as Microsoft Office, available for both
Differences between Macs and PCs (VM)
Virtual Machine (VM) software allows Macs to run Windows software
Differences between Macs and PCs (Use)
- PCs: Business and engineering areas
- Macs: Artistic areas
Difference between Macs and PCs (cost)
Macs usually cost more
Microprocessor
Brand Model Clock speed Number of cores Power consumption
RAM
- Allows CPU to process more instructions
- Supports more applications running simultaneously
Secondary cache
-Provides an additional location for memory storage
~L2 and L3 cache
-Quickly accessed
-Allows systems to work faster
Hard drive storage
- Relatively inexpensive
- Purchase as much as possible
Drivers
-Decide on internal or external
-Should meet your needs
~CD, DVD, Blu-ray
-Flash drives-an excellent supplement
Video card
Controls the quality and resolution of the display
Monitors display standards
SXGA, WXGA, WSXGA, WUXGA
Monitors interface
AGP, PCI Express, PCI Express Base 2.1
Dot pitch
The smaller the dot pitch, the better the display
What should you consider when upgrading your computer
- it will be in violation of the computer’s warranty
- you have the knowledge and skill level to perform the upgrade
- upgrading or buying a new computer may be the most cost effective option
Adding an expansion board
- identifying correct type of expansion slot
- press new board into place and screw in place
Upgrading memory
- purchase the type and amount of memory needed
- round yourself against static electricity
- install memory
Caring for computer
- surge protection
- purchase a UPS
- never plug a computer into the same outlet as a fridge
- allow sufficient air circulation
- turn the computer off before connecting or disconnecting cables
- do not stretch or mash cables
- clean a computer and printer with a damp, soft, lint-free cloth
Advice
- Do research before buying a computer system and results in an informed purchase
- Research your purchase-read newspapers and magazines and Search the Web
- The more sources used-the easier it will be to make an informed decision
