1. Find all of the following information about the computer you use for this course:

a. Make and model

b. My CPU is [CPU]. Its clock speed is [SPEED].

c. Size of my RAM:

d. The total capacity of my hard disk is:

e. My optical drive is:

f. The operating system I am using is:

2. Now you are going to build a computer that has more capacity to replace your computer and is capable of running new software you intend to purchase and use in the future. You must choose a different brand as a replacement. For example, if you have a Dell, choose Sony, Lenovo or HP. If you have a Mac, choose a different model Mac as a replacement. First you need to choose a software product that you intend on using. Some examples of software you may choose to use: Imaging software, Video Design software, Music Software, PC Game software, or Business/Tax software. Write down the software you chose along with the information below:

a. Software product along with its version/release number

b. OS and minimum system requirements to run the software (memory, sound card, disk space,..)

c. Distribution Media for the software

Additionally the new computer must have more disk storage to hold at least twice as much data than the computer you are using now.

3. Minimum Requirements

a. Disk Storage Requirements (double the amount of GBS):

b. What manufacture did you choose for your replacement computer?

c. What is your target budget for the cost of the replacement? Note: An Intel computer probably should have a target price that falls in the range of $600-1,300; a Mac computer should probably have a target price that falls in the range $1,200-$2,300.

4. Next you will review different models at a vendor's website (e.g., Dell, HP, Sony, Apple) and build a computer that satisfies your needs and fits your budget

a. Desktop versus laptop. Which did you I choose and why?

b. Which model what did you chose and why?

c. Operating System?

d. Processor name?

e. Clock speed?

f. Memory capacity?

g. Disk Drive choices. Which did you chose and why?

i. Size?

ii. Speed (RPM)?

h. Other hardware devices

i. Optical Drive?

ii. Video card?

iii. Sound card?

5. Summarize all the specifications of your computer (You can copy and paste this from your final customization page on the manufacturer's website.

a. What was the total price for the hardware configuration you chose? (Do not include the cost for software)

b. Was the total price acceptable when compared to your budget,. that is, was it less than your original budget?

6. Give two reasons why this newly configured computer would be worth purchasing.