computer information

---

Its difficult to remember that the object of this website is to not use Technospeak particularly when the dreaded word "Computer" hits the screen. So this page will just explain the phyical differences between the various types of machines available and consider the for's and against's of each.

Windows PC's ( Personal Computers ) You have three real alternatives to consider - a Laptop portable PC, a Desktop static PC or an all in one desktop.

• portable machines which can be easily hidden away when not in use
• they don't need a specific area in the home allocated or any specialist furniture
• they can be taken on holidays and trips or to work meaning your data is mobile
• the more powerful models will do most day to day things a desktop PC can do
• most of the software you are likely to want to use will run on a laptop
• can use a larger external screen on most models
  

• generally can,t compete with the ultimate speed, hard drive capacity and screen size of a desktop PC
• the more powerful machines are considerably more expensive than a similar spec desktop
• the most powerful laptop will never be as powerful as the most powerful desktop, a size issue
  
• the sceen sizes are smaller, though with a machine on your lap this is generally not a problem
• can't upgrade screens or keyboards etc what you buy is what your stuck with
  
• laptops do get hot in use, very hot
• laptops are not so easy to upgrade, so you need to get it right when you buy
  

• those people who may not have the space or the inclanation to find space in their home or office for a desktop PC
• those who wish to share their photos,documents or music with people at different locations
• those who think a laptop will do everything they want to do as they can not easily be upgraded
  

• Those who will have an issue using a machine where the keyboard and screen are so close together
  
• Those who think with experience they may need to upgrade their machine eg: games need lots of power
• those who may wish to use more sophisticated speakers

---

Desktop PC's for -

• easiliy upgradable processors, hard drives, disc drives etc
  
• you can upgrade to a bigger screen, change the keyboard and accessories
• as its static you are more likely to start and finish work at reasonable times
• always a more powerful machine ust round the corner
• may be more comfortable to use for long periods
• if there is a problem likely to be cheaper and easier to repair than a laptop
• generally better at dealing with sound and images due to seperate components inside
• can be the basis of a multi media centre to watch TV, play music and DVD's
  

• needs a commitment on space and perhaps new furniture
  
• can't pick it up and take it to a different location like a laptop
• some units are noisy with fans running all the time

• those who do not mind the size issue
  
• those who may wish to change perhaps screen, speakers
  
• those who may want to play games which need more powerful graphics cards etc
  

• those who will find the portability of a laptop an advantage
• those who simply do not have the space for a desktop

For all in one PC's - (model shown is an Apple iMac)

• as the photo shows everything is in one compact, tidy unit including the screen
• will happily sit on a desk or table with only one mains cable and one phone cable required
• can be a really stylish piece of furniture
• its like a big laptop computer on stand

• the same upgrade issues as a laptop you are pretty much stuck with what you buy
• not the best for those wishing to play some of the more poer hungry games