Geof Bartell

A little knowledge goes a long way when buying a new computer

Tech Diego
By Geof Bartell

While our economy is still struggling, I have noticed that many of my clients are purchasing new computers and back-up devices. Speaking with them, I realized how challenging it is to make an informed decision because of the dynamic and complex nature of computer technology. This month, I thought I’d discuss the process of purchasing a new computer—what to look for and how to get the most for your money.

The computer’s lifecycle depends largely on how quickly the software and accessories you require are updated or increase in complexity. Computer components become more complex to support big operating systems, productivity software that offers more features or media systems that can capture and play TV and run graphically rich games. As a result of faster and smaller components, the software that drives everything gets more complex and must be updated. Thus, the cycle continues.

The bottom line: most computers last between three and six years. If you purchase a low-end computer or laptop, expect a two- to three-year lifecycle. If you spend a little more on things like the CPU (central processing unit) and RAM (random-access memory), expect your computer to last a lot longer.

Often when consumers look at computer specs they see something like this on the first line: Intel® Core™ i3-540 processor (4MB Cache, 3.06GHz). And, as soon as they see that, many people’s focus quickly shifts to something they understand, like the color or size of the screen. However, that first line is very important for consumers to understand and would greatly inform their purchasing decisions if they understood it.

In the example specs I’ve just stated, I chose a low-range model of a high-end processor (CPU). The i3 would be best compared to the BMW 3 Series (the luxury automaker’s more modestly-priced and best-selling vehicle). Coincidentally, Intel has the i3, i5 and i7. This i3-540 is a dual core processor, which means that there are basically two CPUs built into one. Dual core is becoming the standard technology for new computers. Don’t even look at single core processors if you use your computer for media or business productivity.

The 4MB Cache refers to memory built into the CPU. The CPU cache is almost like RAM, but much faster and smaller than RAM. RAM (random-access memory) is a very important part of computer speed and longevity. The computer uses RAM as temporary data storage so the CPU doesn’t have to look through the hard drive for information it needs. Similarly, the CPU uses cache to store smaller, more quickly- and frequently-accessed information, rather than looking through the RAM, which is temporary storage.

With me so far?

You can think of RAM and the cache as similar to a shopping list. We write lists (RAM and CPU cache) so we don’t have to make our brains (the CPU) work as hard when we’re wandering through the store (the hard drive). When we are done shopping we toss the list away. In the case of a computer, it often keeps that list of most-accessed data (eggs, mike and cheese) as cache files, while allowing other data that’s not accessed as often (capers, olives and sun-dried tomatoes—your RAM) to be written over. The RAM is memory that gets cleared out every time we re-boot the computer, giving it a fresh start when we turn it back on. Have you ever noticed that if your computer is acting up, restarting it will often take care of the problem? That’s because it erases the RAM that could be slowing your computer. Cache files also can be erased from time to time to purge your computer of graphic files that are often stored in your computer when you visit websites.

Finally, in this example the 3.06GHz refers to the clock speed; how fast the CPU makes basic calculations and computations. When looking at clock speed, like RAM and cache, a higher number is better.

If you purchase a computer today, get a good dual core processor and something with at least 2GB to 3 GB of RAM—and make sure it has room to add more, as constantly evolving software and programs will surely require more storage. A few years from now when it is starting to run a little slow, you can upgrade the RAM and it will add a few more years of life to your computer!

A great computer that will support daily business use should cost between $575 and $700. If you need a laptop expect to pay a few hundred more. Keep in mind that this would not include productivity software like Microsoft Office, which costs extra.

Also, just know that no matter how long you wait for the best deal, the computer you purchase will be on the shelves as a faster and less expensive model six weeks later —no matter what. Technology changes that fast! Strive to make the most-informed decision you can today. The rest is out of your control.

—Have a burning IT question or just want to learn more about something technical? Shoot me an email at tech@gay-sd.com and I’ll try to answer it for you, perhaps in this very column.
Geof Bartell holds a master’s degree in business administration, is a certified Project Manager and owner of Fishbone Computing in University Heights.