Modern business owners know how critical computers are in running day-to-day operations. Without computers, many tasks would have to be done manually, resulting in substantial costs and bottlenecks along the supply chain. As such, it’s important to procure the right machines that can support your business’s unique needs.
When purchasing new computers, here are some things you should consider:
Budget
How much you spend on new computers falls under your larger technology budget, or the total cost you allocate for IT. Having an idea of how much you’re willing to spend can help prevent overspending or underspending.
One tried-and-tested approach in budgeting for computers is to create tiers of different devices according to user needs. This is because not everyone needs top-of-the-line machines to perform their tasks. Those who handle heavy media or manage IT need to have powerful machines, while those who work with text-based documents can do with devices that have lower specs.
It may also be a good idea to buy in bulk, as some vendors offer discounts, incentives, or installment plans if you buy a certain number of units from them.
Processor and RAM
All computers have a central processing unit (CPU) that interprets a program's instructions and creates the output that you interact with on your computer. The CPU has a core that sends data to the processor; the more cores a CPU has, the better the processor can handle multiple computing tasks. This means that a computer with multiple cores can operate faster and run several applications simultaneously way better than a computer with a single core, allowing for a smoother user experience.
Additionally, consider a computer’s random access memory (RAM) when selecting machines for your business. The RAM is a short-term memory storage space that functions like a workbench where the computer can place all the data it’s currently working on to make them easily accessible and retrievable. You’ll only require as many RAMs as you will use, so assess your needs first and decide on one that suits them. Generally, a standard desktop computer packs 8GB of RAM, which is enough to run the machine’s operating system and several applications without lags.
Storage
Your hard drive is where you store all your local apps, files, and documents permanently. The amount of storage varies by computer model, so make sure that you choose one that can contain all the data you need to access in a day’s work. If you need a space to store large media or game files, for instance, it’s best to go with computers that have at least 1TB of hard drive storage.
However, also consider your other storage options into the equation. If you’re going to utilize cloud storage solutions for apps and backups, then maybe you won’t need computers with very large hard drives, after all.
Screen resolution
This refers to the number of pixels that your screen can display, or simply, how well your monitor can display visual content. If you’re working in fields that deal with multimedia and graphics, invest in a computer with a high resolution that will allow you to see sharper, more detailed images. If you’re going to use your computer for frequent video conferences or presentations, then you’ll also need a display with a high resolution.
Warranty
Should your computer face any unforeseen technical problem, a manufacturer warranty will cover the costs of replacing computer parts and any servicing fees for up to a certain period. Most business computers are covered for up to a year, but some best-in-class models are covered for up to three years or more.
Always ask your vendor what support you’re entitled to and read the fine print that comes with your purchase. Some suppliers even offer a separate purchasable care pack for their PCs, enabling buyers to extend their computer’s warranty and have access to repairs, device replacements, and 24/7 expert support for an all-in price.
Overall, you want a computing device that can efficiently handle all the work that you do. Don’t know where to start? Ask our experts at HERO Managed Services. We’ll provide you with reliable, powerful, and secure IT solutions that will address your tech needs. Contact us today.
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