The Intro

Computers have been, well at least for me, something that I can't live with and can't live without. Kind of like a love, hate relationship. Over the last 6, 7 years I have seen the evolution of computers from the 088 up to the newest Pentium II (586) computers. It seems that we need to upgrade our computer almost as often as we go to the store. Although I mean saying, "Hey honey, can you pick up another 32 megs of ram up while you're out, I'm running low again," does sound a bit funny. But yet, that seems to be the only way to stay current.

The typical system now-a-days is some type of Pentium 100 to 200Mhz with usually 16 to 32 megs of ram. I can see now that in 6 to 12 months, this will not be enough for many applications. I personally do not know how people with 486 DX-Whatevers can get by, but they seem to make-do with what they have. If these people are just waiting for some fantastic computer to come out and be "just right" for them ... well, let's just say that never will happen. It keeps changing. Everyone has to take a plunge sometime into buying a new computer. It's the wave of the future.

A main push to buy a new computer has been the newest in video games and applications. New computer graphics have brought about a new way we can view games and applications on computers. New 3D APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), such as DirectX and OpenGL are bringing our computer to a new level of fun. Only about 18 months ago were 3D video cards brought out into the mainstream, so many of us are still stuck playing Quake frame by slow frame.

Over the last year or so, I have started to really look indepth about computer technology for both today's and tomorrow's computers. I have looked in many sources to findout what will make a good computer and what will last the longest for the best price. Yes, the most bang for your buck.

;) 

After doing much of the shopping, I have found out that it is really the same cost if you buy from a computer manufacturer such as DELL or Gateway 2000 as is to build a computer yourself. Not only if you build a computer yourself you get the exact parts you want, but you would have the satisfaction of using a computer that you can really be proud of. I'm sure the idea of building your own computer isn't for everyone, but it can sure be a fun way to spend your weekend. BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPUTER!

Over the next few pages, I will talk to you about today and tomorrow's computer technologies and what to buy to make your computer system last the longest. To start, first you need to decide what pieces you need to buy to build your own machine: Picking the Right Parts