Info for non-Computerati

Starting Points

Cost effectively matching computer hardware and software resources to business and personal goals is not real hard as long as you understand the choices you are making. That implies some level of "background knowledge." Because all the options and prices are constantly in flux that makes the matching a process I have heard characterized as "nailing the jelly to the wall."
The tried, true, and traditional method of specifying computer hardware and software is very straight forward and simple. First, survey the needs to determine what software is required, then determine the hardware platform required to support the software, then determine if any adjustments to hardware and software specs will better meet cost and performance goals.

What this page might do for you

This page will give you some food for thought about PC purchases and upgrades. It is a jumping off point and not a set of recommendations. It may help you with deciphering portions of the computer ads. It is my observation that the more acute the need for computer consulting, the less is the likelyhood that it will be sought out. This page might help you decide what you want or it may help you decide that you would benefit from some help.

What this page definitely will not do for you

This page will not pick your computer for you. It is very much out of date with respect to hardware specifications. I prepare updated versions as my clients' needs dictate.
Neither the author and maintainer of this page, Jim Tucker, nor the Diamond Lane which stores the files, make any warranty expressed or implied as to the suitability of the information and opinions on this page for any purpose.
The page is intended purely as an educational exercise. If you find benefit here please tell your friends. If you need help and or information relating to the content of this page please contact me.

Some working papers prepared for a client starting a new business

Thoughts regarding a computer system for a start-up

Assumptions:

1. Access to information originating outside the company will be critical to its success.
2. Accounting records are valuable only if accessible.
3. Accounting record dollar value begins with the total of accounts receivable.
4. Any asset not protected will be lost.
5. At least one of the founders is already computer literate.
6. Competition will get tougher.
7. Growth will increase the demand for information and communication.
8. People will make honest mistakes.
9. Records are the core of a business.
10. The ability to shift perspective on complex situations is critical as the complexity level increases.
11. The business is likely to grow.
12. Utility companies do not supply continuous 110 volt power.

Hardware Prerequisites:

• Processing: the minimum here is to run any required application program at a speed that is cost effective in reducing user "hands on head" time.
• Communications: A modem is a no-brainer just in terms of email, software and support; the questions revolve around modem speed (or required bandwidth) and "28.8" is the minimum.
• Storage: 1 gigabyte is the current minimum however, if it is anticipated that a CD-ROM drive will be used, that minimum goes up to 2 gigabytes.
• Archive: The minimum is to be able to regularly back up the system in a time frame that does not interfere with conducting business
• Power: The minimum is to be able to have the system shut itself down gracefully in the event of a power failure, and the choice is how long the system must run without power.
• Interface: The monitor, keyboard, and any pointing device must be of a quality and type not only sufficient to meet the software's needs, but also comfortable for the user.

Software Prerequisites:

• Suitability to Business Requirements: Although no one piece of software will make or break, the set of applications chosen should leave no critical gaps in meeting the needs of the business.
• Ease of use: Software that the user is already familiar with should be given preference to the degree that it meets the needs of the business.
• Reliability: The business records are going to depend on the reliability of the software.
• Support: Timely, cost effective support must be available for the software.

A list of software:

• Windows 95 - there is no point in starting out a version behind.
• Microsoft Office - Dennis is already familiar with both Excel and Word.
• Norton Utilities - some problems can be prevented, others fixed.
• Quick Books - Flexibility and good bang for the buck here.

A list of hardware:

• Pentium processor, motherboard to match - the 133 mhz looks like the buy
• 16 megs RAM - 32 megs if networking is anticipated.
• Uninteruptable Power Supply - one of the heavy with battery jobs and it must have a serial connection to monitor and gracefully shut down the machine.
• Hard Drive - 2 gig minimum size, average access time 12 milliseconds or under.
• 14 or 17 inch monitor non-interlaced 1024 x 768 - 17's are very nice and the price is coming down if the space is not a problem.
• Display card with 2 megs RAM - less is to build in a major response bottleneck
• 4X(minimum) CD-ROM drive - 6X and 8X are currently pricey and a change in CD standards is anticipated.
• Sound card and speakers - the only real choice is between 8 bit and 16 bit sound (8 bit is AM radio quality sound, 16 bit is CD quality sound).
• 28.8 modem - data and fax are assumed, if voice is also supported, it may be useful
• Printer - Color or not ?, must forms be printed ?, what dpi is required ?

A chart of PC parts

The table that follows is out of date! The prices are definitely out of date Further, the system contemplated is intended to serve a specific set of cost and perfomance needs.
What the table can do is give you a feel for what the various parts do and what effect spending more or less money might have.