Computer Specifications
What is the Specification?
The specification or ‘spec’ is a list of the key components that make up the computer system. It
is provided by retailers to help buyers decide which PC, and which combination of features, they
need. When buying a PC, it is important to start by deciding what it is you want the PC to do.
This then informs what specification you actually need.
When reviewing a computer specification, the most important components to take account of are
the processor, the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive as these are central to the
overall capability of the system.
Processors
Two companies - Intel Inc. and AMD Inc. - manufacture most of today’s PC processors and both
offer a range that balances price and performance. Processors are generally defined by their
speed - in megahertz (MHz) or in gigahertz (GHz) - and this relates to the number of operations
they can perform per second. The higher the value, the faster the PC will perform and the more
expensive it generally is.
Memory (RAM)
The main working memory in a computer is called random access memory or RAM. The
processor uses this memory to run programs. RAM is measured in gigabytes (GB). Computers
now use DDR 4 RAM.
Storage – The Hard Drive
The hard drive is the computer’s main storage area. It stores the applications and programs that
run on the PC, as well as any work created by users.
Other Specifications
Monitors
The older CRTs have been largely replaced by TFT flat-screens. A 15” TFT has the same
viewing area as the older 17” CRT.
o Average entry-level PCs usually come with a 15” flat-screen and this is adequate for most
general purpose applications.
o Larger 17” flat-screens are available and may be appropriate if video editing and
advanced graphics work is being carried out.
o Teachers of students with special needs may want to consider using larger monitors with
their students.
CD / DVD Drives (Optical Drives)
CD R/W drives are standard on PCs and allow the information on a compact disc (either data or
audio) to be read and written to by the PC. It is defined by its speed (i.e., 48x or 48 speed). DVD
drives can read both CDs and DVDs. 48x DVD-ROM/CD_RW drives are standard on entry level
computers. These allow you to copy to blank CDs. 52x DVD-RWs are standard on higher
performance computers. Educational software is being developed in both DVD and CD formats,
but a DVD can hold over 25 times more data than a CD.
Graphics and Sound Cards
These cards are installed inside a PC and are responsible for determining the quality of the audio
and visuals (graphics and video) output by the computer. They hold their own memory (in MB),
which is why they add to a computer’s capability.
o A integrated graphics card with 256MB of memory is recommended for general purpose
PCs.
o Computers running high-end applications generally require a separate PCI 128MB
graphics card.
o A sound card generally comes as standard in most PCs purchased today. If students
intend to work extensively with digital music, the school should consider getting a
high-end sound card as this will create greater depth, complexity and realism of sound.
Speakers and Headphones
Most computers come with either built-in or external speakers. Schools may also consider
buying headphones to control sound levels within a classroom or computer room. Cheap
‘headphone splitters’ can also be purchased — these enable two sets of headphones to be used
per computer.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
It is recommended that all PCs be purchased with a suitable network interface card (NIC). A
network card allows a computer to be connected to a network. A 10/100/1000 Mbps (Megabits
per second) card is the standard network card today. Few school networks currently operate at
speeds higher than 100Mbps.
Operating Systems (OS)
PCs are generally purchased with an operating system pre-installed. It is worth checking that
your existing software will still work with the operating system of any new systems being
purchased. It may be possible to choose a particular operating system and, if so, this may help
standardise new machines with existing school PCs. Microsoft introduced their Vista OS in
January 2007. Windows XP however will probably remain the most commonly used OS till
approx. mid-2008. Windows XP Home is at least €100 cheaper than XP Professional but it is not
suitable for school networks. Vista Home Premium replaces XP Home and Vista Business
replaces XP Professional. PC Specifications
Purchasing Considerations
Consider the following points when purchasing PCs
o What is the intended use of the PC and will the chosen specification fulfil these aims?
o Is the PC compatible with existing computer equipment and software?
o Is the technical support service satisfactory?
o A minimum 3year warranty including next business day (NBD) onsite, including full
parts and labour is recommended
Other Components as listed on PC for sale
128MB AGP video card
Integrated sound card
USB keyboard and mouse
16X DVD-R
19’ LCD Monitor
6 USB ports
4 PCI slots and 1 AGP slot
APC Biometric reader
Logitech webcam
HP Deskjet 6840C
APC 1200 watts line conditioner
