When it is time for your small business to get a new computer, what computer should you buy?

Should you go to a big box store? Should you spend hours on research? Should you just buy a big-name brand?

Even at today’s prices, a computer is a significant investment—especially if it doesn’t work well for you. North Star NP has created a checklist to help you with this decision.

Better yet, consult with us and we’ll make a personal recommendation, and install it for you too!

Power: We suggest a Quad-Core processer, such as Intel Core i5-4590 Processor 3.3GHz. These business strength cores give you the power to multitask. If your work is long on graphics or number crunching, other options may give you more speed.

• Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4600
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64-bit free upgrade to Windows 8.1 and Windows 10.
• Card Reader: Multi-in-One Memory Card Reader
• Memory: The more memory the better! I’d say 8GB is a minimum.
• Storage: 2TB 7,200 RPM Hard Drive.
• Networking: 10/100/1000 Network card.
• Wireless network card: 802.11b/g/n Wireless.
• Programs: I recently learned a new term: bloatware. Many cheap PCs are full of all sorts of trial and extra software that you don’t need or want—and getting rid of it can be difficult. We recommend Microcenter in St. Louis Park MN. Virus protection, of course, is crucial.
• Extended warranty/tech support: Why pay more for impersonal, unreliable support? North Star NP can provide ongoing monitoring, or trouble shooting on an as-needed basis. Removing viruses—even ones you don’t know you have—can improve your performance dramatically.

Remember this is a baseline to start from…the programs you use and how you use them are all factors in making your purchase choice.

Good computer hunting,

Mike Schak