Offers Affordable Web Services for small to medium sized companies.

DISPLAY / MONITOR The choice here is between a conventional TV-style cathode ray tube (CRT) and a more expensive, space-saving flat screen, known as a thin-film transistor (TFT) screen. Screen sizes are measured diagonally in inches,but the visible area of a CRT screen is usually an inch less than the number that's most prominent in the adverts.

TFT -Flat Screen

 

CRT

 

GRAPHICS CARD This is the piece of the Computer that helps to display things. Most graphics cards have their own Ram memory, called video Ram, or VRam. The type of card you choose is really important only if you want to play 3D computer games.

Unless you know the difference go with the one already in the PC.

HARD DRIVE/DISK This provides long-term storage for programs and documents. Most new desktop computers come with around 80 gigabytes (Gb) of hard disk capacity whereas about 40Gb is common for laptops. By comparison a CD-Rom can hold around 650Mb.

RAM (random access memory). This is where information is left temporarily when in use. The more RAM, the faster your computer. 256 to 512 megabytes (Mb) is standard for new desktops, but 1024Mb (or 1 gigabyte) is increasingly common. Basically the more memory you can afford the better.

 

If you are having Windows XP as the operating system you will need a minimum of 256 Mb

CPU (CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT) OR PROCESSOR This is the brain of the computer, enabling other components to work. Its speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz), but different brands aren't directly comparable. AMD (which makes Athlon processors) uses a speed rating system to allow for easier comparison with Intel processors (brand names Pentium, Celeron, And Centrino). A 2.8GHz Pentium Is roughly equivalent to a 3000+ rated Athlon (which runs at 2.17GHz).

CD/DVD DRIVE These both play CDs and read CD-Roms. DVD drives can play DVDs, too. Most New computers come with CD-RW drives (or CD burners) that also let you record files to CDs. Recordable DVD drives are also available, but will bump up the price of a new machine by around £80.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SPECIFICATION The average computer specification is constantly increasing, but the amount of computer power you really need depends on how you plan to use your machine. Here are some guideline specifications for common types of task. For explanations of the terms, see 'What it all means; above. INTERNET AND EMAIL Sending emails and browsing the web isn't particularly taxing for your computer. It's probably worth spending your money on a fast broadband internet connection, which will speed up surfing the web far more than any amount of Ram or a fast processor ever will.

Ram 256Mb. Hard drive If you're not storing any big files, you can get away with around 40Gb. CPU 1 GHz or 1200+ rated Athlon will easily cope with most tasks. Display There's no need for a large screen if you're only planning to use email and surf the net. A laptop with a small screen could work well. Buy from one of the following reliable UK outlets:

OFFICE APPLICATIONS You won't need a really fast or powerful computer if you're just using it for word processing and spreadsheets. It's worth telling sales staff how you plan to use your machine, so you don't end up spending more than you need.

Ram 256Mb. Hard drive 80Gb - or less if you're not planning to store lots of files. CPU A 2GHz Pentium or a 2200+ rated Athlon should be enough. Display You might want a big screen if you'll be working with large spreadsheets. Buy from one of the following reliable UK outlets:

CREATIVE/MULTIMEDIA If you're planning to work with graphics, videos, or music, it's worth getting a machine with a high specification. Editing audio and video files requires a lot of power. Downloading music and working with still images such as photos  is less demanding.