Questions
Computer technology changes almost daily. To keep up with the technology is a full time job. To advice someone on what type of computer to get, is an impossible task. Everyone's needs are different. Everyone's preferences is different. Therefore, these pages are for your information to make an educated decision. There is so much information that it may confuse you more than help you. However it is important to review all the information. Also as technology changes, some of the information provided here may not apply.
For more information that I don't have included here, see the following
Hardware questions Information on computer parts.
What will the system be used for?
If you are using the system for word processing (Microsoft Word, WordPerfect), Excel, Presentation, Database such as Access, getting on the internet, and low end games such as card games, board games and other low end games you don't need a high end system. A low end system will work. Unless you are going to write a book or a manual. Word in general does not use much resources for every day word processing but it is a memory hog if you are going to create a multiple page document such as a book or a manual. If you are going to create a book or a manual, you need good amount of memory and a good video card.
If you do, high end graphics work such as AutoCAD, or play high end games, you will need a medium to high end computer system.
What kind of computer you will need in the future?
You will also need to decide if you are going to need to upgrade down the road. Some systems will not allow certain parts of the computer to be upgraded. You might be able to add parts but it can be expensive or may not work correctly. It may be cheaper to buy a more expensive system at first if you are planning on upgrading the system. Buying a more expensive system may end up being cheaper down the road if you plan to upgrade.