Computer Proposal

Computer Proposal

Summary

The firm wishes to purchase new personal computers (PC’s). Being unsure of the terminology and meanings of computer specifications, they have asked for a proposal for a standard machine for the company. They have requested an explanation of the internal and external components and for a recommendation of an operating system for the proposed machine.

Analysis

The firm would like to determine and purchase a standard companywide PC. The accepted PC and its operating system must meet current functionality requirements and be robust to meet the growing demands of the firm.

Identification of Solution

The preferred vendor is Dell Computers, Inc. Based on the needs of the firm, current and future functionality, the proposed solution is a Dell Optiplex 790 Mini Tower PC. As stated by Dell, Inc., ‘Optiplex means serious business.’ It is designed specifically for networked environments, delivers quick set up time and is easy to manage and troubleshoot (Dell, Inc., 2011). The Optiplex 790 Mini Tower provides a sturdy chassis, and the mini tower design will enable easy upgrades if necessary as opposed to the small form factor models which are much more compact more difficult to upgrade. The total cost for each PC is $1,370.00, this includes the computer specifications and software we propose. The specifications we propose are as follows:

• Central Processing Unit (CPU), the ‘heart’ of the computer, it performs all the computations that enable the computer to function (TechTerms.com, 2011).

o We propose a Core I5 2400 3.1Ghz processor. This is the newest generation of processor providing increased system responsiveness and enhancing multi-tasking and graphics performance (Dell, Inc. 2011).

• Operating System, the set of programs that communicate with the hardware of the computer providing instructions on what functions to perform (TechTerms.com, 2011).

o We propose the newest operating system from Microsoft, Windows 7 Professional.

o We propose the 64-bit version with the Windows XP Mode.

 Microsoft will discontinue support of the Windows XP operating system April 8, 2014 (Microsoft, Inc. 2011).

 The 64-bit version of Windows 7 Professional will enable enhanced memory upgrades beyond the limited 4 gigabytes allowed in the 32-bit version.

 Providing XP Mode to the firm’s staff will allow them to become accustomed to the new operating system in a familiar work environment.

• Hard Drive, is the file cabinet of the computer. This will store all documents and data for the firm.

o We propose a 1TB, Terabyte, hard drive. This is currently that largest available hard drive for the Optiplex 790. A Terabyte will hold 1,000 copies of the Encyclopedia Britannica in data (What’s a Byte, 2011).

• Memory (RAM), the part of the computer that allows the programs to function.

o We propose 4GB of Dual Channel memory. Dual channel memory provides fast and efficient processing of data.

• Video Card, this runs the graphics part of the computer