Overview
In this activity, you will design a computer system for a specific user with a specified budget. To create the computer system, you will need to determine the hardware, software, and peripherals that meet the needs of the specific user. You will make a list of the components and provide an explanation of the function of each. You must support your decision for including each component in the system by describing how it will effectively meet the needs of the user profile you selected.
Prompt
Use the System Specifications Template Word Document to complete this assignment. Remember to include links or appropriate citations for the resources you use to support your selections.
Sites such as NewEgg, Micro Center, and Fry’s Electronics provide numerous options to consider when building a computer system. You may find it beneficial to use one of these sites, or you may choose to use other resources.
As you begin to build your computer system, consider the following basic questions and make decisions about items such as the system unit, CD/DVD drive, printer, monitor, speakers, microphone, keyboard, mouse, flash memory card reader, and storage (e.g., hard drive or solid state drive):
- What input devices will the user need for the system?
- What output devices will the user need for the system?
- How important is processing speed?
- How much memory and storage does the user need?
Choose one user profile from the following list and create a computer system that meets the needs of that specific user.
Family (Budget: $800.00)
The family computer must meet the needs of a variety of users. Family members plan to use it to search the internet, stream videos, create a family budget, and support basic word processing tasks. They expect easy usability, the ability to connect to fast internet, a clear picture, and the ability to print documents they create. In addition to the basic questions listed above, when building the computer system for this user, consider the following:
- How much RAM would be sufficient?
- What size hard drive would they need?
- What type of monitor do they need, and what resolution would you recommend?
- Connection to the internet is important, so what would you recommend to support the family’s needs?
- Which peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and printer, would you recommend?
- What email program would you suggest and why?
- What budgeting programs should they use?
- What internet browser would you recommend and why?
Remember to explain the function of each component you choose, and support your decision for including it in the system.
Digital Art Student (Budget: $1,500.00)
The art student is creative and innovative. They not only focus on traditional school work, but also rely on their computer for creating models, animation, and 3D printing projects for their major. In addition to the basic questions listed above, when building the computer system for this user, consider the following:
- Does the system allow them to work in a variety of places?
- Do they have the right amount of memory?
- Do they have enough permanent storage?
- Does the system allow them to draw directly on the screen?
- What software will they need to create presentations and animation projects?
- What peripherals would be essential for this student?
Remember to explain the function of each component you choose, and support your decision for including it in the system.
Gamer (Budget: $2,500.00)
Most gamers want smooth, fast gameplay with sights and sounds that immerse them in the game. They are interested in streaming or recording video and communicating with other players. They do not want visuals that are grainy, pixelated, or stall mid-move. In addition to the basic questions listed above, when building the computer system for this user, consider the following:
- What components should be used to ensure smooth and quick gameplay (e.g., solid state hard drive, multi-core processors)?
- What components should be used to ensure the best visual experience (e.g., monitors and discrete graphics cards)?
- What components could impact the speed of play or amount of buffering (e.g., memory, internet connection)?
- How will you address the audio needs (e.g., microphone, speakers, headset, sound card)?
- What peripherals would be needed (e.g., joystick, gaming controller)? This may be based on the software/games being recommended.
Remember to explain the function of each component you choose, and support your decision for including it in the system.
