Choosing the right computer monitor can get tough these days, with so many different types and sizes to choose from, how could you possibly make an informed decision?
Well, we’re here to make choosing a computer monitor a little bit easier. Lets start out by defining some terms used in the computer monitor industry.
Refresh Rate - This is basically how fast the monitor can update the screen, the faster the better. With low refresh rates, monitors can get a noticeable flicker.
Resolution - This is how large of a screen the monitor can display. Higher resolutions are better, but most people don’t even use the highest resolution possible, unless they have a really large monitor.
Dot Pitch - This is basically a number value that determines the quality of the image displayed. Most computer monitors vary from .15 to .30, with the lowest number being the best.
Viewable Screen Size - This is how much of the screen you can actually see, which only really applies to CRT monitors, since you can always see the entire screen of an LCD computer monitor. Most CRT monitors lose at least half an inch, and up to an inch on some monitors. This means on a 17 inch CRT monitor, you can only see 16.5, or 16 inches, depending on the manufacturer.
The different types of computer monitors
CRT Computer Monitors - These are the regular tube style monitors, except that they now have flat fronts, which gets rid of most of the distortion around the edges.
The good - CRT monitors are extremely cheap, and refresh rates are fast enough for today’s hottest games.
The bad - Their size can be annoying, taking up most of your desk space, especially with large models.
LCD Computer Monitors - These are the flat panel monitors you see everywhere now.
The good - Extremely small size makes them very versatile as far as location is concerned.
The bad - They’re still quite a bit more expensive than CRT monitors, and the refresh rates aren’t great when it comes to hardcore computer gaming
Some things to note about all computer monitors is what type of inputs they have from the video card. All of them have the basic 14 pinned VGA input, but if your video card supports DVI, or S-Video, (higher quality input types) and you want to use these, you must make sure that the monitor also supports these. DVI and S-Video are superior to VGA, but usually cards & monitors with them cost slightly more.
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This article taken from Computer Discounts Guide - Computer Monitor Guide. View the website for more helpful guides.
Donny Duncan, the author of Computer Discounts Guide has been in the computer field for over thirteen years.
Computer memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM). The information stored in RAM can be accessed randomly, rather than sequentially. This means that data can be found in any location at the same rate of speed. Other storage media, such as CD-Rom and hard drives, must wait while the drive spins to the correct location before the data can be accessed.
Computer memory is simply a storage area for the program code and the data that program uses. Computer programs use RAM to write and retrieve information, allowing for fast data retrieval and manipulation.
How Much RAM is Enough?
Simply stated, the answer is, as much as possible. Keep in mind, though, once you’ve reached a certain upper limit, which is determined by the computer program(s) used, investment in more memory will see a diminished return.
Adding more memory is one of the best ways to maximize computer performance. If you compare 2 identical computer systems, the one with the most memory will over-all be the faster. More RAM allows the computer to place more program instructions into memory, relying less on the slower hard drive.
Think of 512 Megabytes (MB) as the base standard for a modern computer. With that you can multi-task (run several applications concurrently). For instance, you can check email and download MP3s, without noticeable sluggishness.
Some applications, however, are more memory-hungry than others. Graphics programs, for example, are notoriously greedy. Memory needs are further exagerated by the operating system used. Microsoft Windows is far more demanding than, say, Linux. Currently, most PCs use Windows, though.
Should you notice your computer slowing down, consider adding more memory. Before committing to that option, however, try de-fragmenting your hard drive with a utility (program) designed for that sole purpose. A fragmented hard drive is a common cause of stalled computer performance.
Types of RAM
Right now DDR SDRAM is the most popular memory module. DDR stands for Double Data Rate, which means that the memory can be accessed twice per clock-cycle. SDRAM, the acronym for Synchronous Data Random Access Memory, has been the standard for memory modules for nearly a decade.
To add memory to your computer, you must install modules with the correct contact layout. Before purchasing new memory, you must know which type your motherboard will accept. The most common form factors are 168 pin, 184 pin and 200 pin.
You’ll also need to know whether there are slots available on your motherboard. If all the slots are already in use, you’ll have to replace 1 or all of the current modules with higher capacity ones. If there is at least 1 free slot, you can simply buy a new memory module and insert it in the empty slot.
A word of caution: whereas some motherboards can accept either SDRAM or DDR SDRAM, the 2 types cannot be mixed. You must decide on 1 or the other. Check the motherboard manual first to determine which kind of memory your computer requires.
And finally, when you are ready to install your brand new memory module, make sure of 2 things: the power is off (for your safety) and you are electrically grounded (for your computer’s safety).
Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Visit http://www.build-computer-now.com to learn more about this fascinating subject.
Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.