As a trainer and consultant, I am quite often asked, “I am buying a computer, what do you recommend?” When I ask them how they plan to use the computer, they have no clue.

In many cases a computer will be delivered with an operating system (more on this later) such as Windows XP or more recently Vista, and not much else. A computer is therefore pretty useless straight out of the box, unless all you want to do is play solitaire or surf the net.

A computer needs software – Computer Programs – to perform some purpose or task; this is called Application Software. Every application will have its own set of hardware requirements, i.e., what processor, how much disc space and physical memory requirements or RAM. It is therefore crucial to know and understand what software applications you are going to be running before you order a computer.

Some software is very expensive and can quite easily exceed the price paid for the computer itself. On the other hand, some software is legally free. For example, there is shareware and freeware. Many vendors also offer trial-ware, which as the name suggests, is software that is only available for a period, after which one must make a decision to buy it or leave it.

However, to answer the question as to the specifications of what should be bought, I would say this: regardless of the CPU, i.e., AMD, Intel Celeron or Pentium 4, you should have at least 1 GB of RAM and a CD/DVD burner to backup your data. If your budget will allow, you can get a second drive to store disc images of the primary drive for recovery purposes. You should also include anti-virus protection.

Depending on your level of computer competency, you may require additional training. You have just invested in new technology, and you want to be able to get the most from that investment, so invest in yourself and get the skills necessary to do so.

Over the next couple of issues I will explain the differences between particular applications and their appropriate use and where one can get software.

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