Not too well versed with hardware jargon but need a computer? For starters, read Ask these 3 questions before you buy a computer. Once you are sure what you need one for, get cracking. Here is a basic guide to get you started.
Do note: while all potential buyers will benefit from this piece, it is mainly targeted at individuals opting for an assembled PC. Embedded: http://www.hardwaresoftwarearticles.com/archive/index.php/f-3.html
An indicative price list at end will help you budget accordingly.
Motherboard
The large circuit board into which Central Processing Unit, memory boards and peripheral cards are plugged is referred to as motherboard.
It is most vital part of any computer as it holds and connects all your peripherals and add-ons to give you upgrade options and support for future technologies.
What you must know:
Check whether it comes with all necessary options, support for upgradeability and extra slots for memory and other add-on cards. Processor
Processor chips are primarily available in two brands -- INTEL and AMD.
The Intel chips range from very basic Celeron chip to Pentium series to advanced Centrino processor. Print and Fax: http://www.hardwaresoftwarearticles.com/archive/index.php/f-4.html
AMD has a chip called Athlon, which is slightly cheaper than higher end Intel chips.
Most users prefer Intel Pentium chips to Athlon as latter heats up soon and isn't as efficient as a Pentium 4 chip. Also, Athlon chip based systems need extra fans to cool system.
The most preferred chip is Pentium 4 2.4 GHz.
You might want to consider Athlon chip with motherboard would cost you about Rs 3,000 less than its INTEL counterpart. Movie Maker: http://www.hardwaresoftwarearticles.com/archive/index.php/f-5.html
What you must know:
Though processor speed plays a crucial role, you need not have latest and fastest one available. If a processor with a slightly lesser core speed can do just as well for your demands, go for it. Make sure chips are box packed with a serial number to ensure they are original. Random Access Memory
RAM is amount of memory available for use by programmes on a computer.
The RAM chip comes in capacities of 128, 256, 512 MB, even 1 GB. Most computers function efficiently with 256 MB RAM, though a 512 MB RAM does offer you an edge.
As a thumb rule, always go in for a minimum of 256 MB RAM.
The latest memory technologies in use are DDR RAM, RD RAM and latest release of DDR2 RAM.