If you’re looking for a computer to browse the Web, e-mail, use simple desktop publishing software, or work with more advanced productivity programs (like spreadsheets and scheduling applications), then a standard model PC is for you. Here’s the equipment you'll need to build this PC:
| Computer Component | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Case | ATX minitower model; dual fan |
| CPU/motherboard | Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD 64 Athlon X2; PCI and PCI-Express slots |
| System RAM | 1GB |
| Hard drive | One EIDE or SATA drive, 240GB minimum |
| Optical drive | 16x internal DVD recorder |
| Modem | 56 Kbps v.90 internal data/fax, cable/DSL modem for broadband |
| Video card | Standard 256MB PCI-Express 3-D video adapter with NVIDIA or TI graphics chipset |
| Sound card | PCI audio card with Surround Sound |
| Monitor | 19-inch LCD |
| Ports | Four USB 2.0 ports, digital media card reader, and one FireWire port |
| Input | Standard keyboard; mouse |
