Note: This project can be completed only by students who have their own computers or who are able to use the specifications of a classroom computer in place of their own. Deciding whether you should buy a new computer or upgrade your current computer can be difficult. In this project, you’ll examine the cost of a new computer that meets your specifications versus the cost of the hardware/software needed to bring your old computer up to your specifications. Although most computer upgrades are relatively simple, if you think you’ll need professional help, be sure to include an estimate of that cost in your upgrade. Use the Internet to find a computer system that meets all of your requirements, and print out its specifications. Next, obtain or research the specifications of your current computer. Create a chart that lists the hardware and software that needs to be upgraded in your current computer. Research the cost of each piece of hardware that you’ll need to replace and of each piece of software you’ll need to buy (including new operating system software, if applicable). Compare the price of the new computer with the price of the hardware and software you would need to buy to upgrade your old computer. Which is cheaper? Write a brief paper that includes your comparison chart and describes your current system and the system you would like. State whether you think buying a new computer or upgrading your existing one would be the wisest thing to do.
Suggested Web Sites: http://pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleID=1754 http://www.daileyint.com/hmdpc/pcs.htm http://www.dell.com http://www.gateway.com http://www.pcworld.com/howto/article/0,aid,108927,00.asp http://www.wowway.com/~mooreman/upgrades.html
Suggested Keywords: PC Upgrade, Computer Upgrade versus Buying, Computer Hardware Price Lists
You’ve followed all the advice in this chapter and have determined that your old computer system is not worth upgrading. Once you’ve gotten your new system all set up, there’s still one more decision you need to make: What should you do with your old computer? Use the Internet to explore possible new uses for old systems that are still in good working order. Similarly, research the proper disposal methods for computers that are truly defunct. Remember to consider the importance of protecting the data that may still be on your old computer. Write a brief paper that outlines several possibilities for each scenario and discuss the option or options that would be most useful or interesting to you.
Suggested Web Sites: http://green.starnewsonline.com/default.asp?item=607687 http://ilovett.com/blog/old-computers/new-uses-for-old-computers-introduction http://thefuntimesguide.com/2004/11/oldcomputeruses.php http://www.care2.com/greenliving/dealing-with-obsolete-computers.html http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,102526-page,1/article.html http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/04/how_to_recycle_1.php
Suggested Keywords: Obsolete Computer, Uses for Old Computers, Recycle Computer, Computer Disposal
Some methods of optical storage, such as CDs, are fairly commonplace for most users, whereas others, such as DVDs and the new Blu-ray technology, are not as familiar. To add to the confusion, optical drives are available in a variety of speeds, and the technology is available in different formats (i.e., DVD-RW vs. DVD+RW). Use the Internet to research the various types and formats of optical storage available today. Create a table that includes the following for each type of storage (i.e., CD, DVD, etc.):
Suggested Web Sites: http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/blu-ray.htm http://www.blu-ray.com/info http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html http://www.freebsd.org/doc/en_US.ISO8859-1/books/handbook/creating-dvds.html http://www.geek.com/htbc/buy/cdromby.htm http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleID=540 http://www.proactionmedia.com/dvd_media_formats.htm
Suggested Keywords: Blu-ray, Optical Media, Optical Media Standards, Optical Formats
LCD monitors are quickly replacing CRT monitors, especially now that pricing has become more affordable. However, as with any other device, quality can vary between models and manufacturers. Price is not always the best way to select a monitor. Use the Internet to research three to five LCD monitors with the same viewing size, from at least two different manufacturers. Evaluate the specifications for each monitor and create a table listing the monitor brand, model, and viewing size. List your findings using the following criteria:
Suggested Web Sites: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-3173_7-6384019-1.html?tag=dir http://www.computerhope.com/help/lcd.htm http://w3.guidester.com/monitor.aspx?s=40615957 http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/Category/category_tlc.asp?CatId=12
Suggested Keywords: LCD Monitor, LCD Manufacturers, LCD Monitor Comparison, LCD Monitor Review
