PC Buying Guide

This guide is designed to acquaint yourself with the technology and components that are used inside our PCs. Below you will find an explanation of the purpose of every component and how it can benefit the performance of a PC.

We will be begin by examining the various crucial components that make up a desktop computer:

The motherboard is the main board inside the case where all the other components connect to. It determines the type of components that can be supported by the system and the overall performance of the system.

Motherboards for Intel CPUs that support Crossfire

Motherboards for Intel CPUs that support SLI

Motherboards for AMD CPUs that support Crossfire

Motherboards for AMD CPUs that support SLI

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The processor, commonly known as CPU, is the beating heart of a PC. Unlike other components (such as memory), upgrading a processor at a later stage can be difficult and expensive. Consider your current and future performance requirements when choosing.

AMD vs. Intel - This is a common question that we are asked on a daily basis. Intel currently has the performance advantage over AMD with its excellent Core 2 Duo range, which offers very high performance and great value-for-money.

CPU frequency - The frequency of the CPU, usually measured in Ghz, shows the speed of the internal core of the CPU. This isn't the main performance indicator, you should also look at the cache and the amount of cores the CPU has.

Cache - Used by the central processing unit of a computer to reduce the average time to access memory. The cache is a smaller, faster memory which stores copies of the data from the most frequently used main memory locations.

We currently offer the following latest CPU models:

Model		Performance score	Frequency	Cache	Typical usage
	Core 2 Duo E4600		2 x 2.40Ghz	2MB	Multiple computer intensive programs, or home video editing
	Core 2 Duo E8200		2 x 2.66Ghz	6MB
	Core 2 Duo E8400		2 x 3.00Ghz	6MB
	Core 2 Quad Q6600		4 x 2.40Ghz	8MB	High-definition multimedia, digital content creation and 3D gaming
	Core 2 Quad Q9300		4 x 2.50Ghz	6MB
	Core 2 Quad Q9450		4 x 2.66Ghz	12MB
	Core 2 Quad QX9650 Extreme		4 x 3.00Ghz	12MB	High-quality gaming and 3D rendering.
	Athlon X2 4800+		2 x 2.50Ghz	1MB	Multiple computer intensive programs, or home video editing
	Athlon X2 5600+		2 x 2.80Ghz	2MB
	Athlon X2 6000+		2 x 3.00Ghz	2MB
	Athlon X2 6400+		2 x 3.20Ghz	2MB
	Phenom 9550		4 x 2.20Ghz	2MB	High-definition multimedia, digital content creation and 3D gaming
	Phenom 9750		4 x 2.40Ghz	2MB
	Phenom 9850		4 x 2.50Ghz	2MB

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The CPU cooler is essential in maintaining a stable, cool and quiet system. A good cooler also improves the circulation of air inside the case and cools the surrounding components as well the CPU itself.

For systems intended to be used for intensive tasks and systems that are specified with high-end components, we recommend upgrading the CPU cooler.

Benefits of upgrading CPU cooler:

• Lower CPU temperature results in a more reliable and stable CPU

• Improves ventilation throughout the case and lowers running temperature of surrounding components

• Reduces noise compared to standard CPU cooler supplied by manufacturer

• Improves the looks of your system internally

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The memory, commonly known as RAM, is a crucial component used to store data temporarily for fast access. There are a number of factors to consider before deciding which type of RAM is right for you. Below are the three main aspects of RAM to consider in order of importance:

1. Amount of RAM - Usually the more RAM used the better, we would recommend 2GB for a basic system and 4GB for a high-end multimedia gaming system. Any more than 4GB would not make much of a difference at the moment, but will make sure your system is more future-proof and can handle next-generation software.

2. Clock speed - The higher the clock speed of the RAM the faster the system will run. Ideally you want the RAM speed to be on par with the FSB (front side bus) of the CPU. Current Intel CPUs have an FSB of 1333Mhz, therefore it would make a big difference if 1066Mhz RAM is running in the system over 800Mhz modules.

3. Latency - This refers to the delays incurred when a computer tries to access data in the RAM module. Because a modern CPU is much faster than RAM, the CPU has to wait for a relatively long time for a memory access to complete before it can process the data. Hence the lower the latency figures the faster the system will run.

DDR2 RAM
Is currently the most popular type of RAM, it offers low latency, low value and is compatible with most motherboards.

DDR3 RAM
Is a new-generation type of RAM that offers higher clock speeds, but is currently more expensive and is not supported by most motherboards. It will supersede DDR2 RAM in time, it is advisable to buy a system that supports DDR3 if the system is intended to be future-proof.


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The hard drives inside a system are responsible for storing all your data, but their performance can also affect the loading times of software and files. Here are a number of things to consider when deciding on your ideal hard drive set up:

1. Amount of space required - The most basic computers now ship with at least 160GB HDDs, we would recommend specifying 500GB as the price has dropped right down and this capacity would be plenty for most.

2. Amount of drives - It is a good idea to specify at least 2x HDDs, so that Operating System can be installed on one and data on the other. This would keep your data safe in the event that the Operating System needs to be re-installed. It is also a good idea to have 2x HDDs so that a RAID Array can be set up, the benefits of which are outlined below.

3. RAID Array - When running 2x HDDs of the same size a RAID array can be configured to increase performance or improve safety of data.
RAID 0 - Distributes data across several discs in a way which gives improved speed and full capacity, but all data on all disks is lost if any one disk fails.
RAID 1 - Constantly mirrors contents of one drive on the other drive, so that data is not lost so long as one disk survives. Total capacity of the array is just the capacity of a single disk.

4. Raptor drives - If you are looking for the ultimate in HDD performance the Raptor drives are unbeatable, especially in a RAID 0 array. World’s fastest Serial ATA drive: 10,000 RPM 16MB Cache and 4.5 ms seek.


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The latest type of optical drive is the Blu-ray drive which brings the next generation of optical drive format to your PC. With a Blu-ray disc drive you get the following benefits:

• Large storage capacity: With a maximum storage capacity of 50GB on one dual layer Blu-ray disc
• High Definition picture quality: Full High Definition Progressive (1920x1080p) capabilities
• Uncompressed surround sound (better than theatre-quality sound)
• New breakthroughs in hard coating technologies - stronger resistances to scratches and finger prints
• Backwards compatible with DVDs and CD ROMS

Capability	DVDRW	Blu-ray ROM	Blu-ray RW
Read CDs/DVDs
Burn CDs/DVDs
Read Blu-ray
Burn Blu-ray

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There are two brands of graphics cards, NVIDIA and ATI, both of which offer separate platforms that allow multiple graphics cards to run on one system. With NVIDIA graphics cards, SLI platform is used, providing users with the option to link multiple graphics cards (two or three) to provide up to a 300% performance increase in certain games. With ATI graphics cards, Crossfire platform is used, providing users with the option to link multiple graphics cards to provide up to a 200% performance increase in certain games.

Do you want to run Windows Vista Aero and other graphically demanding applications effortlessly and smoothly? Some of the new features of Windows Vista, including the Aero feature, require a high performance GPU.

You may not be experiencing games the way developers intended if you are running them on low resolutions. Being able to ramp up the resolution and quality settings whilst still pumping out high frame rates can completely transform your gaming experience, so the right GPU is crucial. In addition, since Windows Vista ships with DirectX 10 graphics, it's important to invest in a DirectX 10-ready card like the nVidia 8800GT. That way, you can enjoy the benefits of DX10 from the start. If you are a keen gamer or you're looking for a future-proof system that will last for some time you should invest in the best graphics card, as these products change regularly and a mid-range model would offer lacklustre performance within one year.

Here's a comparison table of the current range of graphics cards for the enthusiasts:

Model	Performance	Pipelines	Engine clock	RAM
ATI Radeon HD4850 512MB 2 x ATI Radeon HD4850 512MB (Crossfire)		800	625Mhz	512MB DDR3
ATI Radeon HD4870 512MB 2 x ATI Radeon HD4870 512MB (Crossfire)		800	750Mhz	512MB DDR5
GeForce 8500GT 512MB		14	450Mhz	512MB DDR2
GeForce 8800GT 512MB 2 x GeForce 8800GT 512MB (SLI)		112	600Mhz	512MB DDR3
GeForce 9600GT 512MB		64	650Mhz	512MB DDR3
GeForce GTX 260 896MB 2 x GeForce GeForce GTX 260 896MB (SLI)		192	576Mhz	896MB DDR3
GeForce GTX 280 1GB 2 x GeForce GTX 280 1GB (SLI)		240	602Mhz	1GB DDR3

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Ethernet connection - Every PC comes with at least a 10/100 Ethernet connection. This allows you to connect your broadband router/modem to the PC and access broadband internet.

Wireless internet - To create a wireless home/office network you need a wireless router/modem, this would spread a wireless signal round the house/office. To access the internet you would need a wireless USB dongle, that connects to a USB slot in the back of the PC.

Dialup internet - If you are using the old-fashioned dialup internet make sure you specify a 56k modem as our PCs do not support dialup internet as standard.


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This is the main piece of software that controls the components of a computer system and facilitates the operation of applications. The latest Operating System is Windows Vista, there are several versions of this OS and it is very demanding on the PC and requires pretty high-end specification. For full details on Windows Vista - Click here.



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The case houses all the components, it's design and size are an important consideration, not just from an aesthetic point of view. The case has an important part to play in terms of ventilation and the overall temperature of the inside of the system. High-end cases have large dimensions and plenty of internal case fans for maximum air flow, and that's the case you should consider if opting for a high-spec SLI or Crossfire system. The more basic cases only have one internal case fan and much smaller dimensions, they are ideal for more basic systems that do not require as much heat to be dispelled.

Please review our recommendations on the kind of case you should consider, we recommend opting for the next case up to allow for future upgrades and to be on the safe side.

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The PSU feeds power to the system's components, ensuring a reliable and stable system. We only use high quality PSUs with the wattage quoted being continuous power and not the maximum power figure. The most power-hungry components are graphics cards and the CPU. Below we have outlined the best PSU for your configuration. It is a good idea to opt for a slightly higher PSU than you require to allow for future upgrades.

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Something to consider when buying a new PC is the hassle and costs involved when one of the components becomes faulty. A major nuisance can be an intermittent fault that occurs infrequently and can cost a lot of money in terms of labour hours to diagnose and remedy. As part of the standard support we offer 3 year warranty that covers parts and labour for the first year, and labour for the remaining period.

It is a well known fact that the mortality rate of computers is high during the first month and after the first year. We provide full cover against hardware failure for the first year and provide you with free labour for the remaining two years. This takes away the hassle and headache if anything goes wrong for 3 years. Whilst most computers are sold with 1 year warranty, this isn't the ideal solution as majority of problems arise after the 1st year, and that's when you will be left stranded.

 

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