Desktops and All-in-Ones

A desktop, or desktop computer, is a personal computer designed to be in a stationary

location, where all of its components fit on or under a desk or table . Components

that typically occupy space outside of a desktop include peripheral devices such as a keyboard,

mouse, and webcam (input devices); speakers and printer (output devices); external hard drive

(storage device); and possibly a router and/or modem (communications devices). Depending on

the form factor of the desktop, it may also require an external monitor.

Some people use the term, system unit, to refer to the case that contains and protects the

motherboard, internal hard drive, memory, and other electronic components of the computer

from damage. A desktop may have a system unit tower that is a separate device from a monitor.

A tower, which is made of metal or plastic, is a frame that houses the system unit on a desktop.

Towers are available in a variety of form factors. Although they can range in height from

12 inches to 30 inches or more, the trend is toward smaller desktop tower form factors. An

all-in-one (AIO) or all-in-one desktop, by contrast, does not have a tower and instead houses the

display, system unit, and possibly an optical drive, in the same case.

Monitor Speakers
Many monitors have
integrated speakers.

Who uses desktops?

Home and business users who do not require the portability of a mobile computer may work with desktops for their everyday computing needs. Gaming enthusiasts often choose a gaming desktop, which offers high-quality audio, video, and graphics with optimal performance for sophisticated single-user and networked or Internet multiplayer games. Power users may work with a high-end desktop, sometimes called a workstation, that is designed to handle intense calculations and sophisticated graphics. For example, architects use powerful desktops to design buildings and homes, and graphic artists use them to create computer-animated special effects for full-length motion pictures and video games. Some users configure a desktop to function as a server on a network.

Desktop Buyer’s Guide

Desktops are a suitable option if you work mostly in one place and have plenty of space in a

work area.

Today, desktop manufacturers emphasize desktop style
by offering bright colors, trendy displays, and theme based
towers so that the computer looks attractive if it
is in an area of high visibility. If you have decided that
a desktop is most suited to your technology needs, the
next step is to determine specific software, hardware,
peripheral devices, and services to purchase, as well
as where to buy the computer. The following considerations
will help you determine the appropriate desktop
to purchase.

1. Determine the specific software to use on
the desktop.
Decide which software contains the
features necessary for the tasks you want to perform.
Your hardware requirements depend on the
minimum requirements of the software you plan to
use on the desktop.

2. Know the system requirements of the
operating system.
Determine the operating
system you want to use because this also dictates
hardware requirements. If, however, you purchase
a new desktop, chances are it will include the
latest version of your preferred operating system
(Windows, Mac OS, or Linux).

3. Look for bundled software.
Purchasing software
at the same time you purchase a desktop may be
less expensive than purchasing the software at a

later date.

4. A void purchasing the least powerful desktop
available.
Technology changes rapidly,
which means a desktop that seems powerful
enough today may not serve your computing
needs in the future. Purchasing a desktop with
the most memory, largest hard drive capacity, and
fastest processor you can afford will help delay

obsolescence.

5. Consider upgrades to the keyboard, mouse,
monitor, printer, microphone, and speakers.
You use these peripheral devices to interact with the
desktop, so make sure they meet your standards.

6. Consider a touch screen monitor.
A touch screen monitor will enable you to interact with
the latest operating systems and apps using

touch input.

7. Evaluate all-in-ones, which may be less
expensive than purchasing a tower and monitor
separately.
In addition, all-in-ones take up less
space and often look more attractive than desktops

with separate towers.

8. If you are buying a new desktop, you have
several purchasing options:
buy directly from a school bookstore, a local computer dealer, or a
large retail store, or order from a vendor by mail,
phone, or the web. Each purchasing option has its
advantages. Explore each option to find the best

combination of price and service.

9. Be aware of additional costs.
Along with the desktop itself, you also may need to make extra purchases.
For example, you might purchase computer furniture,
an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) or surge
protector, an external hard drive, a printer, a router, or a USB flash drive.

10. If you use your computer for business or
require fast resolution of major computer
problems, consider purchasing an extended
warranty or a service plan through a local
dealer or third-party company.

Most extended warranties cover the repair and replacement of computer
components beyond the standard warranty.

Consider This: Shop around for a desktop that
meets your current needs. Which desktop would you
purchase? Why?