1. Chapter 3: How to Speak Geek and Make Informed Purchasing Decisions
Computer Literacy

2. Performance: Speed, Capacity, and Sophistication
Introduction
Performance: Speed, Capacity, and Sophistication
The Right Tool for the Job: Choosing the Best Computer for Your Needs
Other Factors to Consider
This chapter is all about

3. Performance Issues Three factors affect performance: Speed Capacity
Sophistication

4. Potential Bottlenecks

5. Typical CPU today runs at 2.5+ GHz
Performance: Speed
Measured in hertz
One hertz (Hz) = one cycle per second
One kilohertz (KHz) = 1000 Hz
One megahertz (MHz) = 1,000,000 Hz
One gigahertz (GHz) = 1,000,000,000 Hz
Typical CPU today runs at 2.5+ GHz
The speed of the processor (CPU, video and sound processors) makes a big difference when running programs.

6. Performance: Capacity
Hard drive
RAM
Measured in bits and bytes
One bit = either a 1 or 0
One byte = 8 bits
One kilobyte (KB) = 1024 bytes
One megabyte (MB) = 1024 KB
One gigabyte (GB) = 1024 MB
Lack of capacity can lead to serious slowdowns and system instability.

7. Performance: Capacity
Hard drive
Stores OS and programs
Stores data
Used by CPU for temporary storage
RAM
Used by CPU for running programs
You need enough hard drive capacity to store operating system, applications, and data. Plus extra for the CPU to use as cache or temp storage of information. This is using the HDD as an extension of RAM.
With RAM, you need enough for the CPU to comfortably hold the OS and applications running.

8. Performance: Sophistication
Can the processor handle the job?
CPU variations
Video card processor variations
Branding issues: How can you tell which CPU or card is better?
Web sites like Ars Technica can help
Look for “Guides”
Good to run through the CPU example describing the difference among the 32-bit, 64-bit, and 64-bit dual core processors from AMD.
Many different varieties of CPU and video card, so you need to use the Web to get current information.

9. Choosing the Best Computer for You
Windows
Operating systems
Windows is the most commonly available OS. You can get lots of software and hardware from just about every computer store.
Macintosh offers the best interface, but has fewer software choices.
Linux has the best price (free distros), but steepest learning curve.
Linux
Macintosh

10. Choosing the Best Computer for You
Form Factor
Desktop
Laptop
Desktop computers cost less than portables, but the latter have the advantage of being… well, portable.

11. Choosing the Best Computer for You
Hardware needs
Any computer can handle office tasks
Specialized hardware required for gaming and multimedia
Software needs
Bundled software
Essential add-ons

12. Other Factors to Consider
Warranty
Tech support
Compatibility with other computer equipment

13. Other Factors to Consider
Recycling

14. Performance: Speed, Capacity, and Sophistication
Summary
Performance: Speed, Capacity, and Sophistication
The Right Tool for the Job: Choosing the Best Computer for Your Needs
Other Factors to Consider
This chapter is all about