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Computer Hardware Components and Specifications

PC hardware components that are key for small businesses include the central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), and hard disk. The CPU speed and number of cores affect processing speed. A minimum of 2 GHz with multiple cores is usually sufficient for most business tasks. RAM amount impacts ability to run multiple programs - 4 GB or more is recommended. Hard disk size depends on data storage needs, with 500 GB being typical. Solid state drives provide faster performance but higher costs compared to magnetic hard disks. Peripherals like monitors, keyboards, and mice complete the basic desktop computer setup.

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Ephrem Chernet
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59 views

Computer Hardware Components and Specifications

PC hardware components that are key for small businesses include the central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), and hard disk. The CPU speed and number of cores affect processing speed. A minimum of 2 GHz with multiple cores is usually sufficient for most business tasks. RAM amount impacts ability to run multiple programs - 4 GB or more is recommended. Hard disk size depends on data storage needs, with 500 GB being typical. Solid state drives provide faster performance but higher costs compared to magnetic hard disks. Peripherals like monitors, keyboards, and mice complete the basic desktop computer setup.

Uploaded by

Ephrem Chernet
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer hardware components and specifications

PC hardware, such as a desktop computer, is the most common type of IT hardware purchased
by a small business. The cost of hardware depends on its specification, which in turn is
determined by some key components.

When you buy PC hardware, you need to decide what the specification of these key
components should be.

Central processing unit


The processor is the driver of the computer. Processors are usually differentiated by speed,
measured in gigahertz (GHz). The higher the GHz, the faster the computer will run. You should
buy the fastest processor you can afford, but multicore processors with two or more cores
running at speeds of 2 GHz or above will normally be enough for most business functions, eg
word processing, spreadsheets and some multimedia. More CPU cores and higher speeds
improve processing throughput and therefore the perceived speed of the computer.

Random access memory (RAM)


The processor uses memory to run programs. Generally, the more RAM you have, the better
your computer will run when using several programs at once. Your computer should have
enough memory to make the most of the processor speed. To use multiple modern software
applications effectively, you should have at least 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and preferably 8 GB or
above for more memory intense software applications, such as design, photography or video
editing.

Hard disk
The hard disk stores the data you create in your business, as well as the programs you use. A
typical office computer will have at least 500GB of hard disk space. Most new laptops and
performance computers come with solid state drives (SSD). These drives are silent because they
have no moving parts and are five to eight times faster than the standard magnetic hard disk
drives used in most desktop computers. Although SSD can offer significant performance
advantages, the cost per GB of storage can be two or three times more expensive for the same
storage capacity. Even with a price premium for a SSD, given the performance advantage vs the
overall cost of a typical desktop or laptop, in most cases including a SSD is the best approach.

You can also use external plug-ins, such as USB memory sticks and portable external hard
drives, to supplement your computer's storage requirements.

Peripherals
The monitor is the computer's display screen. Most modern monitors use some form of Liquid
Crystal Display (LCD) technology. Monitors are normally measured diagonally in inches -
typically 22, 24 or 27 inches. Larger or ultra wide-screen monitors allow you to compare two
documents on-screen. Which LCD technology you should use will depend on the cost of it, and
whether you require true colour reproduction or high screen refresh rates.

The aspect ratio of a monitor is the proportion of image width to height. A common aspect ratio
for monitors is 16:9 but other aspect ratios may be required for specialist purposes such as
CCTV monitoring or movie editing.

The keyboard and mouse usually come as part of a bundle, but you may be able to select
wireless devices that make desktops neater.

There are alternative computers to conventional desktop PCs available, such as Apple Macs.
These have historically been used to support desktop publishing software but now also offer a
comparable system for general office use.

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