BackThe monitor is the display of the computer, and is a way for the
computer to communicate information to the user. They connect to your
computer's video card. Monitors vary in size from 14'"-21"
(they are measured just like TV's), with 15", 17'', and 19"
models being the most popular. The quality of the display is
determined by the "dot pitch", and generally range from .25 to
.28 dpi, with the lower number meaning the monitor is being better. We
recommend Sony and NEC monitors. Expect to pay about $200-350 for a
17" monitor and about $350-500 for a 19" monitors. Recently,
flat-panel LCD displays have appeared on the market. These energy saving
displays are very small, but come at a large price, from $900 on.
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The mouse is one of the computer's input devices, and is a means by
which you can enter information into the computer. Depending on the
model, they either plug into the computer's PS/2 or USB
(Universal Serial Bus) port. The prices of mouse range from $5-$70,
and differ by their shape and special features. The more prominent
brands, like Microsoft
and Logitech, have designed models
that are ergonomically shaped, and feel better on your hands. You should
also look for a mouse that has a "wheel" that is used for
scrolling up and down in your software. (Once you get used to it, it
becomes invaluable.) We recommend the Microsoft
USB Explorer, a ball-less mouse that uses an infrared sensor to detect
movement.
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The keyboard is also an input device, and is used for typing. They are priced between $5-70. Like a mouse, they
also plug into a PS/2 or USB port. The keys on the more expensive models
usually have a better feel, and some keyboards even have a special
ergonomic shape to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Some keyboards
also have shortcut keys, which activate such commands as going back and
forward on your browser, and changing the speaker's volume. Another
keyboard feature is a USB hub, which can be used to easily connect
devices such as digital cameras without having to go to back of your
computer. We recommend the Microsoft
Natural Keyboard Pro.
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There are two distinct types of printer: Ink Jet and Laser
Printers. Depending on the model, they plug into either a
parallel or USB port. Ink Jet printers are more common for home use
because they can print in color, as laser color printers are above most
people's budget. These printers range in price from $50-$400, and
vary by their print quality expressed in dots per inch, which usually
range between 360-1440dpi (the higher number is better;) and the
speed at which they can print (in pages per minute.) Some high end
inkjets also allow you to put digital camera memory cards directly into
the printer, and allow you to print pictures without even uploading the
photos to your computer. Personal laser printers cost about $200+,
and are much faster and generally produce better quality text than ink
jets, but are limited to black and white. We recommend printers made by
HP.
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Speakers plug into the sound card, and are used to output sound. (Just
like the speakers on your stereo) There are many models, and range
from about $20-200. However, unlike your stereo speakers, computer
speakers need to be amplified, and the higher quality speakers usually
have a more powerful amplifier, and in turn, allow your computer to better
reproduce sound. Higher end models usually include a subwoofer,
which allows for much better bass sounds. We recommend speakers made by Creative
Labs.
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Broadband Modems:
Because the technology for broadband internet is still new, the vast
majority of cable and xDSL services provide external modems to connect to
the Internet. These connect either to an Ethernet card or USB port.
You do not need to purchase one, because if you subscribe to broadband
internet, it will be either sold or given to you by the provider.
However, if your provider uses an Ethernet version, make sure your
computer has an Ethernet card.
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MAG DX700T 17" Monitor
Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer
Microsoft Natural Keyboard
Canon BJC-2010
Eastern
Amplified Subwoofer Speaker System