Are you planning on purchasing a desktop, laptop, or tablet? If so, it’s important that you consider the components that are included with the device. For example, the type of hard drive, graphics card, memory, operating system, and processor all go a long way in determining your overall user experience. They also help establish how long your new device will last before it becomes obsolete. You certainly don’t want to waste your hard-earned money purchasing a desktop, laptop, or tablet that doesn’t do what you need it to do.

The good news is that when you purchase a machine that includes the right hardware, it will not only work at peak performance, it will also last a lot longer and be compatible with future software releases. The first component that you should be aware of is the processor. The Central Processing Unit, or CPU for short, is basically the brains of the computer. You should know that processor speeds are measured in gigahertz or GHz for short. When you’re choosing a new computing device the faster the processor, the better. A more high-end processor will also have more physical cores and/or more “threads”. However, you also need to keep in mind that faster processors increase the price of the machine. We often see customers purchasing more processing power than they need.

That means you need to determine what you’re using the device for. For example, if you’re planning to use a desktop computer, laptop computer, or tablet for advanced graphics tasks such as gaming or AutoCAD, then you need a faster processor and more advanced graphics hardware. Another important component you need to consider is the hard drive. In essence, the hard drive is where programs, files, and data are stored. Both speed and size count when it comes to your hard drive. A Solid State Hard Drive will offer greater performance compared to a traditional, mechanical disk. Keep in mind that you can always purchase more storage capacity as needed.

Memory or RAM is another component to consider. It basically works in conjunction with the CPU and controls how fast your machine will run. The more RAM your machine has, the better off you will be. The graphics card is the component that determines how video is processed on your machine. As mentioned, if you play video games, edit videos or CAD files, or watch high-definition movies on your device then you need a higher quality graphics card. Last but certainly not least is the operating system or OS for short. In a business setting, you should stay with the same OS across all of your devices. This will simplify support and management tasks. Having the same OS on all personal devices for home use is not as necessary and in all likelihood, not realistic.

The main Operating Systems for computers and tablets are Microsoft Windows, Chrome OS, Apple iOS, and Android. We can help you determine which desktop computer, laptop computer, and or tablet will work best for your needs.

CS2 Computers has been providing professional IT and Computer services since 2003. We are incredibly proud of the fact that we are an established business with clients in a wide variety of industries. We are experienced in supporting, integrating, and maintaining computer hardware and can help you buy the right devices. Our technicians are industry certified and possess many years of training and experience in large corporate environments coupled with over 15 years in the Small to Medium or “SMB” space.

This provides us with a unique approach to both IT Services and Consulting. Whether you are a one-person operation or a publicly-traded company with hundreds of employees, CS2 has the experience and expertise to make your technology an asset. CS2 Computers has been fortunate enough to work with and for some of the best organizations in New England.