You might be thinking that it’s finally time for a new computer device. You take a look at some stores, browse the internet. And get completely confused about the computer hardware.
The acronyms, the technical terms and what you actually need.
Welcome to Computers 101
Important:
When you’re considering buying a new (or refurbished) computing device, you want to buy the best that you CAN AFFORD!
Not necessarily the most expensive, but something that does the job for you, both today and for the next 5 years.
Let’s get into it:
What are you looking at?
Whether you’re in a store, or browsing on the internet, you are going to be presented with the technical specs (specifications) that explain the differences between the different devices.
Note: I’m going to be using the phrase ‘device’ to include any type of computer, from desktop, laptop, tablet to smartphone. Otherwise I’d have to list everything out. 😄
Processor/CPU
The processor (technical name Central Processing Unit or CPU) is the brains of your device.
There are a number of companies that make the processor.
Most often you’ll see:
- Intel
- AMD
- Apple
In all honesty, there isn’t really that much difference between Intel and AMD these days. Of course you are paying a little extra for the name, compared to a ‘no-name brand’.
It’s actually kinda difficult to find a device that doesn’t have a processor made by one of these companies. 😄 I’ve looked online and while there’s a coupe, the majority are the ones I’ve mentioned.
Next you’ll be told the version of the processor, which can include the model:
- Core
- Celeron
- M1 (Apple)
- M2 (Apple)
- Pentium
Intel uses i5, i7 for their model number, and then a bunch of numbers/letters.
You might also see a speed listed for some of the processors in GigaHertz (GHz). This refers to the speed that the processor can accept and process a single command.
Figuring that you don’t need me to say that the higher the number, the faster the processor.
How do you choose the right processor for you?
The newer, or higher number generally means the faster option.
However, it’s going to be down to what you will be doing with your device.
General ‘work’ (office productivity, internet etc) pretty much any processor will work.
For specialised software, from graphics to video production, especially if you know what software you need to use, will have the minimum requirements.
But don’t choose a new device based on the processor alone, there are some other things to take into account.
Storage
You need someplace to actually store information.
This breaks down into two locations:
Note: If you need a reminder about computer size measurements, then take a look at Do you know your Bits and Bytes?
Random Access Memory (RAM)
If the processor is the brains of the computer, then RAM is the short term memory.
The way it’s used, the next commands that the computer expects to need (based on the software running and what you’re likely to do next) is saved in RAM along with information it might need to perform that command.
Imagine that you’re sitting in your favourite seat.
Would you prefer that the remote control is on the other side of the room on a table, or on the arm of the seat?
By having the next set of commands close to the processor in RAM, it takes very little time for the CPU to receive the next command, making your device faster.
As it’s short-term storage, with information being added and removed as needed, when you turn your device off, the RAM is cleared.
Hard Drive
Then what you need is longer, more permanent storage, and that’s the hard drive.
Previously, this was a big deal, and generally bigger was better. However, that’s not the case so much now.
With the rise of online/cloud storage, and the need to have access to your data anywhere you are, the size of the hard drive isn’t such a big thing.
You do still need a hard drive, it’s where all of the software is stored, and some of your files.
Now we need to talking about the type of hard drive.
Yep, there’s different types (or technology) to consider.
Solid-State Drive (SSD)
The difference with SSD (compared to the old hard drives) is that there’s no moving parts. Making it better for travelling (e.g. laptops) as they are harder to damage.
The average size you’ll see is 256Gb, with a few larger options (512Gb) and some smaller versions (128Gb).
Today, it seems that most computers have SSD drives as standard.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
If you’re looking at a desktop computer, a few might say HDD as the storage option.
Generally they will be the larger sizes, as it’s cheaper than SSD.
I remember when I couldn’t afford the 512Mb HDD for my computer and had to select the next size down. (It was my first built-to order computer.)
Today, HDDs are in the TeraByte (Tb) range as standard.
Embedded Multi-Media Card (eMMC)
You’ll see some of the laptops, especially the lightest ones, have their storage listed as eMMC.
It’s basically a flash card (like you use for cameras, phones etc) built-in to the device.
In terms of storage, they are normally on the smaller side, the average size is 128Gb, with a few being the larger 256Gb.
Choosing the right size
Let’s be honest, you don’t have a lot of options to choose from if you’re going to walk into a store, or purchase online.
The devices have a pre-set amount of storage.
If you need specific software (gaming, graphics, video etc), check what the software requires. There’s no point in buying a new computer, only to discover you can’t work with it.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to use a range of standard software, then personally, I would (for your budget), go for the largest RAM option.
It’s the processor and RAM together that actually makes your device feel faster.
Some devices will let you upgrade the RAM later (some more easily than others). It’s the other storage (SSD, eMMC, HDD) that’s easy and cheaper to increase, plus there’s online storage options.
Connections
If you’re looking online, you’ll need to take a look at the full tech specs or specifications to find this information. In a store, you can just look at the sides/back to see what’s built-in.
Note: On a desktop, the connections will be at the back with a few options at the front for easy access. Laptops/Tablets have the connections on the left and right edges.
Internet Access
This is a pretty standard requirement for all devices these days.
You should find a WiFi option listed.
Under ‘ports’ you may also see ‘ethernet’ listed – that’s to plug in a cable from your router.
Screen Connection
If you’re thinking about using an external screen, then you want to ensure that there’s a connection available for it.
Check that there’s a port for HDMI. This is now the standard that most screens and TV’s use for a cabled connection.
Of course there is always the wireless option, and that tends to use Bluetooth. Most devices have that as standard, but it should be listed under connectivity.
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
This is the most well known and used type of connection, for pretty much everything else.
Take a min to think about what you might want to connect. From external keyboards and mice, to printers, headphones, speakers or microphones.
Write a quick list out, and check what connection they use.
Headphones are most often either a 3.5mm jack (known as a headphone jack), USB-A cable or Bluetooth.
Keyboards and mice tend to be USB for wired, or Bluetooth for wireless.
Based on your needs, make sure that you have a device with the right number of connections built-in, or you purchase an adapter to give you more connections.
Tip: If you’re thinking of a laptop, then make sure that it’s a travel hub (i.e. smaller). You’ll want to have it with you are you travel around with it.
There are multiple types of USB connectors.
The two most popular ones (at the time of writing) are
USB-A – the square plug
USB-C – the squashed/flatter round edge
The one that you’re probably using for your phone today is USB-C. Unless it’s an ‘older iPhone’ with a lightning connection.
As the term ‘computer hardware’ refers to anything physical, as you’re looking at connectors, take the opportunity to check the accessories that you’ve got. Are they good enough to use with the new device (probably yes)? Or is it time to buy a new external keyboard (travel version), external mouse or new cables?
Camera/Web Cam
Do you need a camera for meetings?
Laptops pretty much all come with a camera built into the lid. Some may have two, front and back.
Depending on how you’re using your device, many external screens/monitors also have cameras built-in. Alternatively, it’s easy to buy an external camera to add that functionality.
Next Steps
I’m not going to tell you that you need to buy “X, Y and Z”, because there are too many factors that are specific to you when it comes to the right computer hardware for your needs.
But now, when you look at the specs for a new device you understand *some* of what it says. And when you’ve got a choice, you can make an informed decision.
Sometime the best place to start is what you’re using, and it’s easy to check in Windows
YouTube Video: Easily Find Out Your Computer Specs On Windows
The next question is which operating system to choose. A bit divisive but this can have a big impact on what device you actually buy.
If you don’t know where to start, then work through the 7 questions that you need to ask in What no one told you about buying a computer to make sure that you are getting the right device for you!
Other Computer 101 Posts
What computer hardware should you be looking for in a new device? (current post)
Choose the best operating systems software for you
What computer device type suits you best?
You’re going to need some software with that new device
Do you want computer peripherals with that?
When should you think about buying a new computer? (May 22)
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