What is specification?
The specification or ‘spec’ is a list of the key components that make up the computer. It is
provided by retailers to help buyers decide which PC, and which combination of features, they
need. When buying a PC, you start by deciding what you want your PC to do. This tells the
specification you actually need.
When reviewing a computer specification, the most important component to take are the
processor, the size of RAM and size of the hard drive as these are central to the overall capability of
the system. If it is planned to use specialized programs for students with special needs, it is
advisable to purchase a suitable specification computer to meet the system requirements for
these programs.
PROCESSORS
Two companies – Intel Inc. and AMD Inc – are the manufacturers of most of today’s PC
processors and both offer a range that balances price and performance. Processors are generally
defined by their speed, in megahertz (MHz) or Gigahertz (GHz), and this relates to the number of
operations they can perform per second. The higher the value, the faster the PC will perform and
the more expensive it is.
Intel and AMD
Intel and AMD are the two major brands of processors for desktop and laptop computers. They
compete with each other in terms of performance, price, and innovation. Intel processors are
generally more popular and widely used, especially in the high-end market. AMD processors are
often cheaper and offer more cores and threads, which can improve multitasking and gaming.
However, both brands have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your needs and
budget.
x86 and x64
x86 and x64 are the two main architectures of processors for computers. Architecture refers to the
design and instruction set of a processor, which determines how it communicates with the
hardware and software. x86 is the older and more compatible architecture, which supports 32-bit
operating systems and applications. x64 is the newer and more powerful architecture, which
supports 64-bit operating systems and applications. x64 processors can also run x86 programs,
but not vice versa. Most modern processors are x64, which can handle more memory and data
than x86.
Single-core and multi-core
Single-core and multi-core are the two basic types of processors based on the number of cores
they have. A core is a part of a processor that can perform a task independently. A single-core
processor has only one core, which means it can only do one thing at a time. A multi-core
processor has two or more cores, which means it can do multiple things at a time. Multi-core
processors are faster and more efficient than single-core processors, especially for multitasking
and heavy applications. However, they also consume more power and generate more heat.
Clock speed and cache
Clock speed and cache are two important factors that affect the performance of a processor. Clock
speed is the measure of how fast a processor can execute instructions, measured in gigahertz
(GHz). A higher clock speed means a faster processor, but it also depends on the architecture and
efficiency of the processor. Cache is the memory that a processor uses to store frequently used
data and instructions, measured in megabytes (MB) or kilobytes (KB). A larger cache means a
processor can access data faster, without having to fetch it from the main memory.
Hyper-threading and turbo boost
Hyper-threading and turbo boost are two technologies that enhance the performance of a
processor. Hyper-threading is a feature that allows a processor to split each core into two virtual
cores, which can run two threads simultaneously. This can increase the efficiency and speed of a
processor, especially for applications that use multiple threads. Turbo boost is a feature that allows
a processor to increase its clock speed temporarily, when there is enough power and thermal
headroom. This can boost the performance of a processor, especially for applications that use a
single core.
Integrated and dedicated
Integrated and dedicated are the two types of processors based on the presence of a graphics
processing unit (GPU). A GPU is a part of a processor that handles graphics and video tasks, such
as gaming and rendering. An integrated processor has a built-in GPU, which shares the same
memory and resources with the CPU. An integrated processor is cheaper and more energy-
efficient, but it has lower graphics performance and quality. A dedicated processor has a separate
GPU, which has its own memory and resources. A dedicated processor is more expensive and more
power-hungry, but it has higher graphics performance and quality.
MOTHERBOARD
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer. The motherboard is a
computer's central communications backbone connectivity point, through which all components
and external peripherals connect.
Motherboards can be found in virtually all computers, especially desktop and laptop PCs. The
components that connect through them include chipsets, central processing units (CPU) and
memory. The external peripherals include Wi-Fi, Ethernet and graphics cards with the graphics
processing unit, or GPU.
Motherboard manufacturers include Acer, ASRock, Asus, Gigabyte Technology, Intel and Micro-Star
International.
Motherboard designs in desktop computers typically are the ATX motherboard, which is Intel's
improved version of IBM's AT design. Other form factor designers include the following:
extended ATX
mini-ATX
micro ATX
BTX
micro BTX
mini-ITX
micro ITX
nano-ITX
MEMORY (RAM)
The main working memory in a computer is called Random Access Memory or RAM. The
processor uses this memory to run programs. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB). For basic
computing such as web browsing, document creation and light photo editing, 4GB or 8GB is
usually sufficient. However, for more intensive tasks such as gaming or graphic design you might
want to increase your RAM to 16GB or even 32GB of RAM.
History of RAM
Here, are important landmarks from the history of RAM:
Type of RAM Year Invented
FPM-(Fast page mode RAM)- 1990
EDO RAM (Extended data out random access memory) 1994
SDRAM (Single dynamic RAM) 1996
RDRAM (Rambus RAM) 1998
DDR (Double Data Rate) 2000
DDR2 2003
DDR3 2007
DDR4 2012
STORAGE – The Hard Drive
The hard drive is the computer’s primary storage area. It stores the applications and
programs that run on the PC, as well as any work created by users. The range is generally
considered an entry point for HDD devices such as laptops or computers. 500 GB, 1 TB and 2 TB.
Around 500 GB and above of HDD storage is typically considered decent for an average user. Users
can most likely store all their music, photos, videos and other files with this much space.
A solid-state drive (SSD) is a new generation of storage device used in computers. SSDs store data
using flash-based memory, which is much faster than the traditional hard disks they've come to
replace. SSDs also have no moving parts, and upgrading to one is a great way to speed up your
computer and make it more resilient.
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS
MONITORS
GRAPHICS AND SOUND CARDS
SPEAKERS AND HEADPHONES
NETWORK INTERFACE CARD (NIC)
OPERATING SYSTEMS (OS)
PURCHASING CONSIDERATIONS
Consider the following points when purchasing PCs
• What is the intended use of the PC and will the chosen specification fulfill these aims?
• Is the PC compatible with existing computer equipment and software?
• Is the technical support services satisfactory?
• A minimum 1-year warranty including replacement if needed and full parts and labor is
recommended.
• Will added peripherals be required such as headphones, microphone, etc
• Easy access of multiple USB ports
• Operating System licensing options
