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“What kind of computer do I need?”

By Parrish Reinoehl of Pathfinder Networks

July 2004

In my work as a computer consultant I am always exposed to a wide variety of computer and network related questions.  One of the more common questions has to do with computer specifications. 

“What kind of computer do I need?” is a very common question for me to hear.  Over the years I have learned to answer this question in a couple of different ways.  The first has to do with cost.  Most consumers are limited to a specific level of spending, so I generally ask how much they would like to spend and then recommend a system based on their desired spending level.  For me, this is an easy way out- but may not truly be the best answer for each situation.  The second, and more correct, way to answer this question is to ask each user what they intend to do with their PC (or what they expect to be able to do) and then recommend a system that will fit their needs both now and for some time down the road.

Generally, I tend to have three different types of PC’s in mind.  There is the basic system, business class system, and high-end or gaming system. 

The basic system is just as it sounds- basic.  This type of system would be used by someone that only intends to use their PC for simple functions such as email, web browsing, and document creation.  These systems will tend to have a slower processor, less memory and hard drive space, and will not have features such as CD or DVD burners.  In general, these are the systems you will see advertised around the $400 price range (not including a monitor).  The majority of home users would likely be very satisfied with this type of system- unless they like to play 3d games or edit images and movies.  Many small businesses would also do well with a basic system, assuming they only need to use Word or Excel to create basic business documents and to send and receive email.

The business class system is intended to be used by those that will be doing more than just basic web browsing and Word documents.  These users will be creating more advanced documents such as large Excel documents, Access databases, colorful Publisher documents, photo editing, etc.  The business class system will have a slightly faster processor than the basic system, more memory and a much larger hard drive, and will have a CD or DVD burner used for data backups and custom CD’s.  These systems are also likely to be connected to a corporate network and will be used consistently throughout the workday.  The business class system will be in the $700 to $900 price range (not including a monitor).   The business class system may also be a good choice for the home user that needs more power to do things such as editing home movies and digital photos.

The high-end or gaming system is a PC built using the finest and fastest components and where price is a secondary consideration.  These PC’s will have the fastest processor available, a very large amount of memory and a huge hard drive (or even more than one hard drive).  This system will have a very fast 3d video card enabling it to play the newest and most intense 3d video games.  It will have at least a CD burner and may even have a second CD or DVD drive.  These systems will have a case specifically designed to keep the high-end components cooled correctly and may even have flashy features such as a custom paint scheme or glowing lights.  A system like this would be a dream machine for avid gamers.  This type of system will also be ideal for those users that frequently edit or create their own digital videos or do very detailed graphical design or CAD work.  If you want the best of the best, this is the level of machine for you.  The high-end system can easily cost more than $1500 with the cost of the monitor being additional.  I have actually seen custom high-end systems on the market for over $4,000. 

Below is a chart outlining the specifications you would expect to see for each of the three levels of systems I have discussed.  Obviously, there are many other possible configurations available. This chart is only intended to be a basic guide to help each user choose a machine best fit for their needs. 

Pathfinder Networks will be happy to discuss your specific needs and recommend a system that would be right for you.  We are able to provide a custom built system personally designed for your needs and at a very competitive price!  Give us a call for more information.

About the Author:

Parrish Reinoehl is President of Pathfinder Networks; a Cassopolis based Technology consulting firm specializing in providing affordable computer services to small businesses and home users including networks, PC support, sales, and service.  Pathfinder Networks can be reached at 269-684-7696 or via email at parrish@pathfindernetworks.us. 

Pathfinder Networks website is http://www.pathfindernetworks.us

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