The Computer Geeks - Computer Services

VOL: 002 Issue: 002 2006

Business Technology 101
By Jeff Bourque
www.thecomputergeek.ca

Welcome to another issue of The Computer Geek. In a previous issue (Issue 6) we talked about what type of computer you should buy.

Deciding on what type of business equipment and software to use can be overwhelming task.
In this issue we will discuss options for business technology, whether you're starting a new business or already established.

For the moment we will avoid the PC versus MAC argument and revert back to our earlier focus on the PC world.

PC Desktop or Laptop / Notebook

If you and/or your employees need access to their business information while spending a significant amount of time out of the office, or if you/they frequently take work home, then a notebook or laptop is the way to go.
Otherwise a standard desktop PC will be quite adequate for your business needs.

Today, all workers depend on computers for basic business functions such as e-mail, word processing for document preparation and business letters, accounting and spreadsheet functions, and of course, accessing the Internet for research and information.

To handle the volume of business usage a good office computer should have the following hardware features:

1. Large amount of storage space: 80 GB (Gigabytes) 1. Large amount of storage space: 80 GB (Gigabytes)

2. DVD RW Drive (CD Rewritable)

3. Secondary storage device: Hard drive or backup tape drives

4. A minimum of 512 mb/min of RAM (Random Access Memory)

5. Dual Core Processor: CPU 2.4

6. Flat screen monitor to save desk space

7. Wireless keyboard and mouse

8. 56k Fax Modem

The following software should also be installed.

1. Microsoft Office 2003 with MS Outlook. (Outlook is compatible with most hand held devises such as a Blackberry

2. A good suite of anti-virus and security software

3. A spy-ware and ad-ware removal program

4. Operating system should be Windows XP Pro sp2

5. A PDF reader/writer software for converting documents into PDF files (i.e. Adobe)

6. A photo editing software to resize graphics

7. A back up software for file replication and storage

6. Fax Software

Printers / Faxes and Copiers

You can purchase all of these components separately but purchasing them 'bundled' will save you money and space.

Hand held devices

Hand held devices have changed rapidly in the last 10 years. They now have cell phone technology build in as well as Y5 wireless capability to access the Internet. You can even receive your e-mails on the road. Most importantly, handhelds are vital for keeping track of appointments and contacts. They are also compatible with MS outlook and most contact management software.

Cell Phones

Cell phones are essential for any business owner. Regardless of what business you're in, a cell phone will keep you in touch with your clients, employees and other key individuals in your professional or personal life.

There is a wide array of cell phones on the market with every conceivable bell and whistle, including Y5 wireless technology to access the Internet.

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