Choosing and configuring systems

Choosing and configuring systems

1. Choosing a system

   • cost and availability
     • business computers are designed to be suitable without costing too much to buy or maintain.
     • Businesses do not typically need very large, high resolution monitors or top of the range, high speed processors.
     • Business computers are usually available to buy at any time.
   • User needs
     • Business computers must be capable of running office applications at a reasonable speed, store data safely and securely with components that are suitable for long term use.
     • Some users need monitors that can be rotated to a portrait view.
   • Data security
     • Business computers must be capable of storing data so that it is not lost accidently, through a faulty component or by being accessed by unauthorised users.
     • Components are chosen for their reliability.
     • Using cheap components is not cost-effective.

2. Configuring systems

   • Computers in offices are set up so that the office staff can perform their tasks
   • A typical office computer will have;
     • A suitable size monitor, a suitable keyboard and mouse with a hard disk, a DVD/CD re-writer and a network card, with a case to hold the main components.
     • A windows-based operating system such as Microsoft Windows, Apple OS or Linux, with a range of office applications such as wordprocessing, desktop publishing, spreadsheet and database software.

3. Physically impaired workers

   • Office workers who are physically impaired will have a variety of devices to make their use of a computer easier.
   • Puff-suck switches activate switches that select an item on screen or send a command to the computer when the person blows or sucks.