Q. So why should I go to Windows 7 and what do I need to know?
A. First off, let’s make it clear. Win 7 is the best thing Microsoft has ever done. Period. It’s fast, easy to use and more fun than computing ought to be. That said, not everybody will be able to run it.
Q. So do I need a big new computer?
A. Probably not. 7 will run on slower PCs than Vista would be happy with, so you may be surprised. Here is what Microsoft recommends -
1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit)
16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)
DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver
Bearing in mind Microsoft are trying to shift boxes, here’s what I would recommend -
Pentium D, Core 2 Duo, i3, i5 Intel chip. AMD Athlon X2, X3, II, III, Phenom chip.
2GB RAM (32bit) or 3GB RAM (64bit)
Any hard drive less than 5 years old.
Nvidia 5xxx or greater graphics card or ATI 3xxx or later.
Q. So what’s all this 32 and 64 bit stuff?
In theory 64 bit has been available to use on PCs for a long time. Until now 64 bit versions of Windows were rare, but it is becoming the norm. Don’t worry about the technicalities, here’s what you need to know.
1. 64 bit is faster.
2. 64 bit can use more than 4GB of RAM, making really advanced computing possible. You may not need it now, but you didn’t need a webcam until recently!
3. If you use 64 bit you need to get 64 bit drivers for printers and other peripherals. All the manufacturers now produce these, but older equipment may not have drivers available. If you are buying a 64 bit PC, make sure your other equipment will work with it. Check the manufacturers website. Or ask Angus PC Repairs.
Q. Which version of Windows 7 should I buy?
A. For almost everybody, Home Premium is the one to go for. If you are using your PC for business only, then Professional is the one. If you are the type who needs all the bells and whistles, choose Ultimate.
Q. So how much will an upgrade cost?
Windows itself costs from £50.00 per copy (this increases depending on version). Upgrading from one version of Windows to another depends on many factors and it’s very hard to quantify cost exactly, but prices start from £90.00. If you are interested in a quote, please call on 01575 573624.
Q. Where can I read more?
A. Go to Microsoft’s site here.
