Build your PC

_How to configure your Dell PC:
Understanding what's inside

Dell offers a range of computer packages with predefined configurations. However, you may want to consider adding (or subtracting) some features so your new PC fits your exact needs and budget. Here is an explanation of the main options and features you may want to consider.

Processor

The processor, also called CPU (central processing unit) is the computer's brain, responsible for controlling each program's functionality and speed. The processor speed largely dictates the PC's overall performance. Faster processors enhance the user's ability to run creative, entertainment, communication and productivity applications.

Dell offers a range of processors from Intel including the second generation of the most recent processor family, Core i, which includes a range of processors for particular performance needs: Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7.

Dell also offers several of its models fitted with processors from Intel's big competitor, AMD. For example, the Inspiron 570 desktop is configured exclusively with AMD's powerful but economical processors.

The overall performance of a processor is governed not just by its clock speed (measured in megahertz (MHz), but also its cache memory and Front-side bus (FSB) speed. Cache is extra memory capacity built into the processor. Data can be recovered faster from cache than from the RAM memory or from the hard drive, so the more cache memory, the faster the processor will perform its work. In fact, a processor with a slower clock speed but large cache memory may outperform a faster CPU with more limited cache. FSB speed, measured in MHZ, is the velocity of data flow between the processor and the memory controller, which in turn connects to the memory. Generally, the faster the FSB speed, the better the overall performance.

Here are most of processors used in Dell home models currently. To compare processor performance, you may look up benchmark tests here.

Memory (RAM)

RAM (random access memory) is the computer's short-term memory. RAM stores information as applications are being used. The higher the RAM, the faster the PC will process information, especially when multiple applications are being used at the same time. Memory, contained in one or several memory barrettes, typically comes in 2GB, 3GB, 4GB, 6GB, 8GB and even 12GB configurations. For example, a 3GB memory will be composed of one barrette of 1GB and one of 2GB. On some high-performance models, memory bars of the same memory capacity may come in different speeds, measured in Megahertz. For example, a 6GB RAM at 1333Mhz will perform significantly faster than a 6GB RAM at 1066Mhz.

Hard Drive storage

The computer's hard drive is a mechanical or electronic device that stores your computer's important information such as programs, documents, photos or movies. So if you need to store such files, you will want to have adequate storage capacity on your hard drive. Drives typically come currently in capacities of 160 GB, 250 GB, 320GB, 500GB, 640 GB and on the high-performance models, as much as 1TB, 1.5TB or 2TB.

Like the processor and memory, your computer's hard drive also plays a role in performance. The amount of time it takes to boot up your computer, and the time for various opertions, is related to the hard drive’s speed. The hard drive is a mechanical device in which data is etched into, and retrieved, from a spinning disk. Most Dell PCs come with standard hard drives spinning at 5400 RPM, while some offer even faster 7200 RPM drives. The faster it spins, the faster information can be located and retrieved.

A new solid-state hard drive is now available on some high-performance models. Since there are no moving parts, the information retrieval process is significantly faster.

Optical Drive: DVD/CD/Blu-Ray

An optical drive can play music and movies, allow new software to be installed, and record or "burn" documents, photos or music onto media, such as CD, DVD or Blu-Ray Disc. Most Dell PCs come with some type of optical drive, notably excepting netbooks in the 10-13-inch range, which are too small to hold the devices (however, optional external CD/DVD drives are available for these). DVD-RW drives store approximately 7 times more information per disc than CD-RW drives, making them ideal for backing up large multimedia files. Dell offers Blu-Ray Disc drives on several of its models (some play only, others play and record), in combination with CD/DVD read/write capabilities.

Wireless connections: Wi-fi & Bluetooth

Internet connections & wireless
There are two types of wireless connection: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Most Dell laptops are built with a standard Wi-fi card that will allow you to establish an internet connection in your home (assuming you have a wi-fi router and internet service), or if you are within range of a public internet hotspot. Dell offfers a range of optional higher-performance wi-fi cards for laptops as well as some desktop models. The most recent wifi standard is 802.11 N, providing connectivity at greater distances.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices to communicate with each other, for example, for transferring photos from a camera or cell phone to your PC. Bluetooth cards are now available on most Dell laptops, either standard or as an option.

Screen / Monitor / Display

The screen is a vital component in any PC package. Dell home ans small business laptops come in 10-inch, 13-inch, 14-inch, 15-inch and 17-inch screen sizes. An 18-inch screen is offered in the Alienware gaming laptop line. Generally, the larger the screen, the heavier the laptop.

Displays for desktop models range between 18 and 24 inches. Dell offers a range of high-definition screens as well as touch-screens, where your fingers replace the mouse.

Graphics card / video card

A graphics card renders motion in video images such as movies and games; the better the graphics card, the higher the quality of moving images, such as those from a video file or DVD. The card will determine the number of colors, the refresh rate and the maximum resolution of the PC's display. Dell offers integrated cards on all models, as well as optional dedicated video cards for higher performance needs. Dedicated cards come with their own memory and processor, so graphics are shown with greater resolution and quality. Cards that have higher memory (generally 512MB, 1GB or 3GB) give greater video performance.

Sound card / audio card

The sound card, or audio card, processes audio signals and sends them out from the computer. Dell PCs come wth standard integrated sound cards. Optional dedicated sound cards are recommended for video editing, gaming, and music composition. When paired up with high-end speakers, a dedicated sound card can render a surround-sound listening environment.

Battery

Laptops come with a choice of batteries, typically 4-cell, 6-cell or 9-cell packs. The more electrical storage, the greater running time you will have between charges. More powerful batteries will usually weigh more.

Many factors affect the amount of time that a portable computer battery can deliver power before it must be recharged. These factors include the configuration (processor, memory, etc.), types of applications being run and display brightness. Dell uses industry standard benchmarks for battery run time claims. For more information on battery run times and benchmarks, see the white paper, "Understanding Battery Life in Portable Computers"

Operating System

The operating system, or "OS," is the underlying software that allows the user and the computer to interact. The OS is the software platform necessary for the computer to run. It allows the computer's hardware and software applications to communicate. Windows 7 is the most recent Microsoft operating system for PCs (see article at right). All Dell PCs now are fitted with Windows 7, usually in the 64-bit version. Netbooks have a more limited "starter" version of Windows 7

Windows 7

Microsoft's new operating system, Windows 7, comes in four versions in France: Starter, Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate. Here's an overview:

Windows 7 Starter is included in Dell netbooks like the Inspiron Mini 10. It runs three apps at a time, and has the new Windows 7 taskbar, Device Stage and jump list.

Windows 7 Home Premium is the standard operating system used by most of Dell's home PCs, both laptop and desktop. It has Aero Peek, Media Center and all the other Windows 7 features.

Windows 7 Professional is offered on most of Dell's business PCs. In addition to the Home Premium features, it offers file encryption, location-aware printing and advanced backup --features that businesses and enthusiasts will appreciate. It also offers the possibility of running Windows XP programs if additional free software (Windows XP Mode and Windows Virtual PC) is installed.

Windows 7 Ultimate is an option on some of Del's top-of-the-line models. It has BitLocker and a range of other advanced features. It allows you to work in the language of your choice or switch between any of 35 languages.

32-bit or 64-bit?
Windows 7 comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. The terms refer to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than a 32-bit system. Most of Dell's home PC models are currently built with the 64-bit version as standard.

Office software

All Dell computers come standard with English-version Office 2010 Starter office software for basic document writing needs. This is a trial version and may include some advertising. You can purchase the full license for Office 2010 in one of several editions:

Home and Student: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, OneNote
Home & Small business:Word, Excel, Powerpoint, OneNote, Outlook
Professional: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, OneNote, Outlook, Publisher, Access

Antivirus protection software

Dell computers for home use are frequently packaged with McAffee antivirus subscriptions, typically in 15-month, 24-month or 36-month licenses. For business computers, antivirus protection from Norton and Trend Micro is offered. If you do not want to use the prepackaged antivirus software you can delete it and install the antivirus software of your choice.

Dell Service guarantee

Dell offers a 1-year collect & return guarantee in France on all models. In the event of a technical defect, Dell will arrange to pick up the PC, send it to its service center for repair, and then return it--all at no cost to you. Additional service protection, featuring next-day in-home repairs and world-wide warranty protection, can be purchased from Dell in contracts of 1, 2 or 3 years. Call us for details.

Accessories for laptop/desktop

Dell offers a wide range of accessories; mice, travel bags, speakers, headphones, external storage drives, printers, routers, keyboards. Let us know what you need.

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