Understanding Business Tech 101 – What to Look for in a Computer

What are your thoughts on tech stuff? For most non-techie people, technical stuff can seem pretty scary, but when it comes to owning a business, there are some basic technical things that you should understand in order to be successful. One of these things is how to buy the right computer for your business needs.

If you are not a techie, when you walk into a store and a salesperson comes over and starts asking you things like “How much RAM do you need? What size processor? What are your storage requirements?” It can get overwhelming really fast.

With over 30 years in the tech industry and having owned 2 different computer repair companies, I know a little bit about this stuff and my goal is to make it a little less scary for you.

With so many brands, so many models, and so many options, how do you know what to buy?

It depends on your business.

If you are a coach or consultant, chances are you don’t need to get too fancy when it comes to computer hardware. If you are building websites, doing graphic design, or something a bit more involved, you likely need a higher-end computer.

The first big decision you need to make is do you need a desktop or laptop?

If you have an office and you rarely work outside the office or if you store all of your files online and use online applications, then a desktop is a perfect option and cheaper than a laptop. However, if you have a business where you need (or want) to travel with your computer, then you want a laptop.

Either way, desktop, or laptop, you want a business-class computer. If you go to a box store and buy a cheap computer, guess what? You got what you paid for. It may work for a while, but chances are pretty good you are going to need to replace it sooner than later and that can be very frustrating and time-consuming, not to mention more expensive in the long run.

Invest in the right hardware from the start and save yourself the trouble later!

Let’s get this out in the open…PC or Mac?

It doesn’t really matter much anymore. If you prefer Microsoft Windows, look for PC models, if you prefer the MacOS, go visit your local Apple Store. The hardware requirements are pretty much the same no matter which one you prefer.

Stay away from “no name” brands. There are a lot of computers out there and you want to purchase a computer that comes from a reputable company that has warranties and support so if you do run into any issue, it can be dealt with quickly and cost-effectively.

Here are some of the basics to look for in a business-class computer. When you go shopping for a computer, you will see all of this listed on the spec sheet for the system.

1)?????The processor (CPU) is the brain of your computer. For a business computer, you want a processor that can handle all the instructions that are going on all the time. Even if you are not actively working on your computer but it is turned on, your processor is busy working.

Currently, the Intel Core i9 is the best on the market according to industry reviews. There are a few other processor brands out there, however, Intel has been an industry leader for many years, making it a reliable choice. Look for a system with an Intel Core i7 or higher. (Note – choosing a processor that is one or 2 levels down – like an i7 versus an i9 – can save you some money.)

2)?????The memory (RAM) is where all that stuff you are working on hangs out while the computer is on. RAM stands for Random Access Memory.

If you have ever lost power while you were working on a document that was not yet saved and you lost your work – that is because it was in the memory and when your computer shut off, it was gone. If you always have a bunch of internet windows open plus an application or two at any given time, the more memory the better. At the very minimum, look for a computer that has 8GB of memory. 16GB is better. If you do a lot of virtual meetings – you want more memory.

3)?????The hard drive is where all of your files and data are stored. These days with a lot of storage being on the internet – like Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, etc., you can get away with a smaller hard drive. Just remember that your files are not the only thing on your hard drive. All of the applications that actually run your computer, get you to the internet, allow the hardware to work, etc., are stored on the hard drive.

You want a 256GB hard drive minimum. If you plan to store a lot of data, especially pictures and videos on your local computer, look for a 512GB or higher.

4)?????The display size depends on your preferences and needs for your business. If you are doing a lot of online meetings, having 2 displays is a good idea. If you have decided on a laptop, then all you need is one additional external monitor that will connect to the laptop. If you choose a desktop and want multiple displays, make sure the desktop has connections for more than one.?There are a few different connection options for monitors. Check the specifications and make sure there is a place to connect your external monitor.

5)?????The “hardware stuff”. There are a number of miscellaneous hardware items to consider when purchasing a computer.

• Make sure your computer has the internet connections you need. Are you going to be wireless or hard-wired with a cable? Verify that whatever connection you need comes with the computer. If you are going to be physically connected to a network, you need to make sure there is an ethernet port - not all laptops come with this. Not all desktops have integrated wireless.
• Make sure the system has ample USB ports for any extra accessories you may need to connect. Depending on what accessories you need, you may need to connect to USB ports, Thunderbolt, microphone, etc.
• If you are looking at laptops, the system should have an integrated webcam for doing meetings, webinars, etc. If you get a desktop, you will need to purchase an external camera. Many of these external cameras plug into the computer's “USB” port. Make sure the system has ample USB ports for any extra accessories you may need to connect.
• Similarly, a laptop will have an integrated microphone. A desktop may need an external microphone which also generally connects to a USB port.

Setting up a home office for business can get expensive if you do not know what you are looking for.

There are many other options and accessories to consider when purchasing a business computer.

Use the information above as a guideline when going out shopping for a new computer. If you are going shopping at a physical store, you have the option to ask the salesperson questions. TIP – If you are not sure what to buy, do your research. Go to the store, ask questions, then go home and look online to see if you can get a better deal by going directly to manufacturers like Dell, HP, Apple, etc.

One final tip – right after Christmas, July and August (right before school starts), and the second and third week of November are great times to catch deals on computers.

If you are just getting started and need some non-biased assistance, type HELP in the comments below and I will be happy to have a quick chat with you to help you on your way.?