8th Grade Computer Technology Mr. Minger January 2014 What are you looking for? Laptop or Desktop? PC or Mac? Tablet?- What kind? What are you going to use it for? What programs do you need to run? Laptops Advantages Disadvantages All-in-one More expensive Portable Ergonomics Usually smaller Mouse and keyboard might be different More prone to accidents Wireless Internet Can connect almost anywhere Most come with network cards Theft Desktops Advantages Disadvantages Provides more of a “home- More components base” Cheaper cost Easier to upgrade Cannot carry with you Not as accessible to wireless Internet PC vs. Mac Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByCyqSROGf0 PC’s Personal computer Refers to computers that run Microsoft operating system(Compaq, Dell, Gateway, etc.) Mac’s Short for Macintosh Line of computers made by Apple Run Mac OS X as an operating system What’s better- Mac or PC? Activity: Go to Internet Type the web address below Find Advantages/disadvantages for Mac’s and PC’s by filling out a Venn diagram http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/mac-vs-pc-mythbusting-consumer-guide/ Venn Diagram- Example What Does This Mean??? Key Features and Benefits of the HP 2000 Laptop: Intel Premium 2020M Processor 2MB L3 Cache 4GB DDR3 SDRAM system memory (expandable to 8GB) 500GB 5400RPM hard drive SuperMulti DVD Burner 10/100BASE-T Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 connector) Connect to a broadband modem with wired Ethernet or wirelessly connect to a WiFi signal or hotspot with the 802.11b/g/n connection built into your laptop 15.6" diagonal HD BrightView LED-backlit display Specifications (Specs) RAM The more RAM- more smoothly your computer will run Most new operating systems (Windows 8) will require 2 GB of RAM CPU The higher the GHz – the faster your computer will run Dual better than single, Quad better than Dual Look for 2.0 GHz cpubenchmark.net Specs (Continued) Hard Drive Measured in GB or TB (remember units) Look for at least 500 GB Can always buy external Hard Drive USB Ports How many??? Look for 3.0 ports Other Factors Monitor Peripherals- (keyboard, mouse, speakers, etc.) Battery Life Sound Card Graphics Card Other Memory slots (SD Card) Anti-Virus Software Where to Buy? Major Retailers Best Buy Walmart Online Retailers Direct from company Refurbished? Make sure you have protection plan (warranty)