What kind of computer for a small business that sells food?

Question

What kinds of things would I need? How much RAM? How big of a HD? I mainly need the computer to track sales, and make fliers, promotions...stuff like that. Can you recommend a specific computer. I am on a budget. Also what kind of storage might I need? CD's, external HD? If there is any other input or output devices you might think of I would appreciate it! Thanks!

Answer 1

What you will want is the items listed below. The speed of the PC wil not matter unless you plan on playing video games or have 10 excel, word or other heaving memory programs running at the same time. Most programs like Quicken can run pretty fast on new cheaper laptops/PC's.  I check the online stores like Circuit city, Sams club(not always cheaper) Bestbuy. I recnetly had to shop for a laptop for a customer of mines and he purchased a HP with 2ig ram(memory, 160 Hard drive Windows XP(I prefer WIndows XP Pro but XP home will be ok). Vista is a joke when it comes to user friendly. DOn't beleive the commercials. Microsoft is trying to push this on their customers to make more money.

Anyways, Back to the subject.The above laptop was purchased for $560 at the store. If you purchase online, check if the have no charge ship to store for web specials (Walmart does).

I would prucahse an external Hard drive(USB) to store any personal items or financial info(pictures, spreadsheets, words docs, etc) If anything like a virus gets on the laptop at least you have a backup. small Book size external Harddrives are going pretty cheap ($60-$100 160GB) at least in my area. Dallas, TX. Laptops are easier when you have a flat surface and can use an external mouse.

I get to rambling and I hope I haven't confused you more.

again at least 2gb RAM Memory, 160gb HD, CDRW/DVDRW(Standard on most laptops) Windows XP Pro(preferred) Open Office is a free download and can do almost  the same as Microsoft Office.

Can you hear Microsoft shiver when there is a free version of the Office suite.

Since you are on a buget, a pawn shop will do also but no warranty on the hardware.

I will stop here and hope this helped you decide.

Take your time researching your laptop purchase.  

Answer 2

Basic computer will serve your purpose. You'll be able to buy a keyboard,mouse and a monitor for about 120 pounds. 512MB RAM is more than enough if you are planning to install windows XP or an opensource platform like linux or Ubuntu. But if you are planning to install Vista you may need at least 1GB RAM. Because you are on budget it's recommended to go for 512MB. 80GB hard drive will be enough.

DELL inspiron 530DT desktop 420.

Intel pentium Dual-Core E2180 processor

HP business desktop DX2400

Lenova Think centre A61 9120

Acer M464

You'll be able to buy a one for less than 400 pounds

Answer 3

Just buy a Dell for about £400 It will be fine.