Objectives

After reading this chapter, you should be able to answer the following questions:

How can I determine whether I should upgrade my existing computer or buy a new one?
What does the CPU do and how can I evaluate its performance?
How does memory work in my computer and how can I evaluate how much memory I need?
What are the computer's main storage devices and how can I evaluate whether they match my needs?
What components affect the output of video on my computer and how can I evaluate whether they are meeting my needs?
What components affect my computer's soundthe quality and how can I evaluate whether they meet my needs?
What are the ports available on desktop computers and how can I determine what ports I need?
How can I ensure the reliability of my system?

Chapter 6: Evaluating Your System: Understanding and Assessing Hardware