Dell Computer Mothership: Own the Last Frontier
Nov 27 '00 (Updated Dec 02 '00)
The $2500 Gateway PC I bought over 6 years ago was a Pentium Processor at 75 MHz, 8MB RAM, 2GB Hard Drive, 15” Trinitron Monitor, PC Speakers, 14K Modem and MS Windows 3.1. Not quite top of the line, but at the time a quality system.
$1500 - $2000 in the Year 2000 will let you buy the ultimate computing mothership. Prior to purchase, not every computer buyer knows what the intended computer’s use will be. I will help by defining some parameters for consideration on the type of system that you may wish to grow into.
It’s not hard to configure a killer system with this budget. Grab the latest issue of Computer Shopper and browse the systems currently on the market. For $2000 there are many attractive bundles available. You may want to buy your system from the big boys, such as, Dell and Gateway or you may configure it at a local computer superstore such as Best Buy. If you feel confident enough, just whip out your father’s credit card and do it all online.
Processor
This is the brain of your computer. Current popular CPU’s range around 800MHz. A 1GHz chip may not yield much of a speed difference but if you are so inclined, go for it! Who wouldn’t salivate thinking about such lightning fast speeds? Just remember that you want to spread your budget out over the entire system. It might be better to get a fast processor instead of the fastest one of the bunch. The processor can always be upgraded over time.
Memory
Memory = RAM. Don’t get less than 128MB RAM. Your system will thank you. Applications will open with ease and your computer will seldom be burdened by demanding tasks. Abundant RAM is essential for playing games, running a web cam and video editing. 256MB RAM and you will probably never have to upgrade this component of your system again.
Hard Drive
This is where you will be storing all your permanent information. Most of your files and applications will rest on your hard drive. With this budget you will be looking into a system as a longer term investment, so load up. 20 - 30GB should be enough to store your latest award winning film submission to the Sundance Festival. Be sure to tell Mr. Redford I was a technical advisor.
CD-ROM
The faster the CD-ROM, the quicker you can load programs from disk. Your movie will also run a lot smoother when you are showing your masterpiece off to your friends. 48X max CD-ROM drive will make your system all the rage. Don’t forget the CD-RW drive. This is how you are going to save your movie and bootlegged MP3s to disk.
Monitor
Nothing reeks like sheer cockiness than a new computer with a 19-inch monitor. Splurge!! Coupled with hi-fidelity speakers and a sub-woofer your system will have the neighbors banging down the door.
Some systems may come bundled with graphics, audio and network cards. Spend the extra dough if you want the top-of-the-line and the upgrade is possible. Your modem will max out at 56K so decide if you want to save a few extra bucks to invest into that high-speed DSL or cable connection.
Extras
Grab that funky looking Microsoft Natural Elite Keyboard – the one that is split down the middle. It may take a few days adjusting but your typing talent will be at the top of the secretarial pool in no time. Ergonomic will be the latest buzzword in your vocabulary.
Consider a zip drive for extra portable storage. An inkjet printer and digital camera will have you pressing the local gazette for better coverage in no time. A scanner will also come in handy for making those mock-up “Human of the Year” headlines announcing your arrival.
With any money left over think about a couple cans of compressed air, a comfortable leather swivel chair, head phones with microphone and a paper shredder. In case the feds should come snooping. It’s your turn to be “all business” – be the boss of your enterprise. Don’t forget to grab a robust surge protector and a steering wheel so on rainy days you can sit inside and burn rubber on your virtual Ferrari. Don’t forget to belt up. It’s the law. Good luck in your PC pursuit and enjoy your thumping system. You’ve earned it!! :P
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