Learning Objective: To be able to identify and evaluate computer-related products
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Evaluating Computers and Related Equipment

Using the list of components in the chart below, find the corresponding information for a higher-end, more up-to-date system (possibly your "dream machine").

Components of a standard Desktop Computer System

Component

"Historic" Specifications

"Your" Specifications

Case

Standard desktop tower with single fan

 

CPU

Pentium 4 or Athlon XP

 

Motherboard

PCI slots

 

RAM

256 MB

 

Hard Drive

40 GB

 

CD-ROM/DVD

48x CD-ROM

 

Internet access

56 Kbps modem

 

Ports

minimum 2 USB ports, no FireWire ports, and 1 parallel port

 

Sound Card

none

 

Video Card

32 MB sVGA

 

Other

standard keyboard and mouse; inkjet printer

 

EXTENSION

Calculate the price of your self-assembled computer system. Compare the price of building your system from separately-purchased components to the price of a pre-assembled system available from a local retailer.

SUPER EXTENSION

Build it. Seriously. Actually, first revise your chart by considering what you ACTUALLY NEED; what you want to use the computer for? What software do you want to run on it? Then obtain the parts either online or from a local retailer (preferably used parts), grab a screwdriver, and build it.

 
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November 5, 2007 9:35 AM