The PC buying guide: plenty of bargains, packed with power
Article Abstract:
Windows PC shoppers can prepare a list of specifications for a sub-$1,200 machine. Processors should run at a minimum 233MHz, and AMD's K6 chip can hold its own against Pentium or Intel-made products. PC performance depends on memory, but the type of memory is not important. Customers instead should seek at least 32MB of memory, or 64MB when operating Microsoft's next version of Windows NT. L2 cache should be 512KB in size, or no less than 256KB. Hard disk size should be at least 3GB, possibly 4GB, whileshould be the 56K and easily upgradeable. Video systems should have at least 2MB of video memory, while a minimum 17-inch monitor and a 'dot pitch' rating of less than 0.28 millimeters will make viewing more comfortable. CD-ROM drives should be greater than 8X, while the PC should contain at least one USB port on the back. Zip drives of $100 or less are handy for backing up hard disks or transporting large files. Most of these specifications also apply to Macintosh shopping.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1998
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New electronic books still havn't become real page-turners
Article Abstract:
NuvoMedia and SoftBook Press are finalizing Rocket eBook and SoftBook, respectively, which are electronic book products scheduled to ship in Oct 1998. Rocket eBook and SoftBook are compact, portable computers designed specifically for reading and annotating electronic texts. Users will download texts from the Internet. Of the two, the SoftBook is more book-like, even having a leather cover. However, Rocket eBook has more storage, longer battery life and a more readable screen. Both products are expensive: the SoftBook costs $299 up front, and users have to spend at least $20 a month at the company's on-line book store, which brings the total up to nearly $800; and the Rocket eBook costs $499 with no monthly fee. Under an alternative arrangement, a SoftBook can be purchased for $599 with no monthly fee.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1998
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Computers are still too complicated, but changes are coming
Article Abstract:
Computers still lack user-friendliness for nontechnical users, but new information appliances perform some PC functions more simply and cheaply. Mass-market PCs, which first gained success in 1977, have reached only an estimated 40% of US households. Less than 50% of these computer owners utilize the Internet on on-line services. The computer industry has made some installation and Internet access advances since Oct 1996, which contrasts with setbacks in several new software and hardware products. The approximately $300 WebTV leads the publicity in information appliances, as it can convert a TV into a Web browser and e-mail browser. Other competitors, such as RCA's network computer for homes plus Microsoft and Intel, are joining the industry.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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