1. Maine State Library Purchasing a Computer

2. Before Purchasing the Computer What are you going to use the computer for? Who in the house will also use the computer? What is the location of the computer set up?

3. Before Purchasing the Computer Research the following: The important factors to do your research on: Processor (RAM) Random Access Memory Hard drive space Graphics card (OS) Operating Software Optical Drives Warranties This is an investment

4. Central Processing Unit (CPU) The heart of your computer AMD, Dual Core, Quad Core Processors Cache

5. Random Access Memory (RAM) The more Ram the faster it will run. 64-bit OS Minimum 4GB RAM 32-bit OS Only recognize 3GB (max)

6. Hard Drive (HDD) Destination of all of your files and data. Known as Hard disk or HDD Can be as large as 3TB (terabytes)

7. Graphics Card (Video Card) Handles all of your graphics, visuals, & videos Motherboard Chipset Dedicated graphics card

8. Operating Software (OS) Consists of programs and data that run the computer. Manages Hardware resources Runs application software New computer Windows 7

9. Optical Drives Retrieve or store data: CDs DVDs BDs (Blu-ray discs) What type of discs will you need?

10. Computer Monitor Choosing a monitor depends on many factors: Application Room on your desk Resolution Cost LCD – (Liquid Crystal Display) Most common VGA input DVI, HDMI

11. Warranties Extended Warranties Buyer Beware Majority of problems: Caused by: Viruses Spyware Read the fine print Find out whats covered

12. Where and how to purchase a computer. Online NewEgg.com Dell HP Tigerdirect.com Amazon.com Wal-Mart Best Buy Staples

13. Peripherals for Your Computer Surge Protector Recommended External Hard Drive Backups Webcam If you intend to chat online (Skype) Flash drive Used to transfer data

14. Purchasing a Printer Once again do your research. Pros & Cons What will you be printing? Is quality your highest priority? How many pages per minute? What are the cost for ink replacement?

15. Anti-Virus Software Sales Rep may try to sell you an antivirus program Norton Microsoft Security Essentials – Free online AVG – Free online