By Joel Montgomery // 15 April 2009 // Related Categories: Tips

(UPDATED JULY 2010)

Computers are complex machines with many different whizzing motors and flashing lights, but does it make a big difference whether we go for the top-of-the-line or the middle-of-the-road in technology? For most of us the answer is no.

Let's keep it simple. Unless you're a gamer or you use your system for demanding applications such as Autocad or Microstation, then here's a simple checklist to make sure you're getting what you need without the unnecessary costs and complexity:

1. CPU (Processor)

OK let's start with the trickiest part. The CPU affects the performance (speed) at which your computer runs because it does all the processing work. The two major brands of CPU are Intel and AMD and there are more than 40 different models to choose from. Simply looking at the speed of the processor (measured in GHz) doesn't tell you the whole story. A 1.66GHz processor may in fact be faster than a 2GHz processor. If you're looking at a new laptop with the latest Intel technology (branded as "Corei"), then I believe that any processor you choose from this range (even the low-end Corei3 range) will be suitable for everyday business use (Office, internet, MYOB and other basic applications). Corei5 and Corei7 have technology that is more suited to very demanding applicatoins (such as graphic design applications and engineering). If you're looking at a slightly older model with Dual Core or Core 2 Duo processors, I would suggest avoiding the Intel models E2140, E1200, E1400 and avoid the AMD models LE-1200, LE-1250 & LE-1300 (called the "Sempron" range). The rest are fine.

2. RAM (Memory)

This is the amount of information that can be quickly accessed by the processor. Anything less than 2GB (Gigabytes) could noticeably slow you down. 2GB is fine, 4GB is not really needed unless you're running Windows 64-bit software (which is unlikely). RAM is so cheap these days it's likely you'll get more than you need.

3. Hard drive (HDD / Disk)

This is the amount of information that can be stored on your computer (it's always much bigger than RAM). Don't buy anything less than 160GB (Gigabytes), and I would suggest a minimum of 250GB unless you're storing all your files on a separate storage device (e.g. server or NAS).

4. Screen (Flat Panel Monitor)

Whilst it's not critical, try to get wide-screen format because many new programs are being designed for this format. If you're buying a desktop, I wouldn't buy anything smaller than 19 inches.

5. Microsoft Operating System (OS)

If you're not buying a Mac then this can be a tricky one. Firstly, if you have more than 5 computers then you should purchase a Microsoft Open License since it's usually cheaper than pre-installed software. Otherwise just go ahead and buy Windows 7, which is leaps and bounds better than Vista or XP. Note that if you buy Windows 7 Professional or Ultimate version, you should be able to run your older XP programs in "XP Mode".

6. Other Microsoft software

Again, if you have more than 5 computers then you should be purchasing a Microsoft Open License, otherwise I suggest getting Microsoft Office 2007 OEM version. Read more about buying OEM here.

If you're in the market for a laptop and you plan to travel around with it a lot, two other important considerations are:

7. Weight

Anything more than 2.2KG is starting to get heavy

8. Battery

Make sure the published battery life is 5hrs or greater. Manufacturers usually test battery life in optimal environments so the real battery life is going to be less than the advertised life. Look for 6 or 8-cell batteries.

Oh, and before you buy anything, make sure you can claim a small business saving with PowerBuy!