Computers Are an Essential Part of the

Computers are an essential part of the success of any home business. Computers are especially important if a company wants to advertise their business on the web. The purpose of this discussion is to create a computer system that will meet the needs of a small gardening business. The individuals starting the business have a $2,500 computer budget and want to advertise their business on the Internet. The individuals also want to keep their own books and be able to track customers over the web.

So then, the following paragraphs will define the specifications of the computer system that I configured and the reasons why I chose this particular system and configuration. The Type of Computer Dell Dimension 8250 would be the computer of choice. I chose a Dell computer because the company allows customers to build their PC's to order. This allows the customer to build a PC that will meet their specific needs. Dell computers have a reputation for being reliable and relatively inexpensive.

Currently Dell is offering a $200 rebate on this particular machine and other free upgrades. The computer comes with a Limited Warranty of one year and one year at home service warranty. The computer that I have configured would be ideal for a small home business that desires to advertise on the Web and keep books using the PC. The Specifications The computer that I configured features a Pentium® 4 Processor at 2.40GHz with 533 MHz system bus / 512K L2 Cache. The memory is 256MB PC1066 RDRAM.

("Select System Components") The speed of the processor and the amount of available memory is very important in ensuring that the system works quickly and efficiently. A Pentium 4 processor and 256MB's of ram will ensure that the computer is efficient for years to come. The keyboard features Dell's trademark Ouietkey which reduces the sound created when typing. The computer also comes with a 17-inch E772 monitor and a two button scroll mouse. The Dell Dimension also features a GeForce4 MX Graphics card and a 56K telephony modem for Windows.

("Select System Components") configured this computer with a 56K modem but I would suggest that they invest in DSL service or a cable modem. However I did not include this in the configuration because of the initial cost associated with such a system and the ongoing monthly fees that are required to maintain the system. DSL or a cable modem would allow them to stay on the internet and talk on the phone simultaneously.

This can also be accomplished through a separate phone line which is usually cheaper than a DSL or cable modem. These types of modems also allow for faster downloads. The drives on the computer include 60 gigabyte hard drive, a 3.5-inch floppy drive and a CDR- DVD drive. The ample hard drive will allow vast amounts of storage. The rewritable CD-Rom will allow them to store pictures and other files associated with the business. The machine also includes a digital sound card and Speakers with subwoofers.

("Select System Components") also added a Cannon F80 Multifunction Printer, USB cable and a surge protector. The multifunction printer is a fax, printer and copier all in one. This will allow the business to print customer receipts and correspond with customers using the fax. The surge protector ensures that the computer is protected from surges in power that could cause it to be damaged. The USB cable will allow the printer and other devices to connect to the computer and works in an efficient manner.

As an added bonus I also included a digital camera which will allow them to take pictures of the landscaping and garden work that they do. The digital camera will allow them to use their pictures to advertise on the Internet. The device is easy to use and they can view the pictures right after they are taken to ensure that they are of the best quality possible before the pictures are put on the Internet.

The computer will utilize Windows XP professional and will feature Microsoft Office Small Business which includes Money 2000. Microsoft small business features PowerPoint, Excel, Word and Access. These programs will allow the small business to.