|  | | HP dc5100 | Computers are everywhere these days; even people in their eighties and nineties can send emails and surf the Web. Most businesses are IT savvy too and use a computer to run the accounts, conduct online research or manage their plans. For a start up business, the flashiest all-singing all-dancing computer that does everything is almost always not required. Overspend on IT and you could live to regret it, but buy equipment that doesn’t meet your needs and you could be left frustrated as well as out of pocket. The trick is to buy something that meets your needs exactly, something that gives you the opportunity to grow without breaking the bank. To read more about computers and what you need to know click here. We’ve trawled through computer manufacturers and retailers to bring you a selection of basic computer packages that should meet your needs. Of course, no two businesses are the same, so we’ve assumed that you are a startup that’s on a budget. The prices below are meant as a guide only – if you want the best deals you have to do some legwork. Shop around (including online retailers), talk to sales staff and see who can give you the best bargain. HP Compaq dc5100 Micro Tower PC This PC is simple to use yet is capable of supporting a wide range of business needs. According to the experts, it is flexible and fits snuggly into most basic IT networks. Price: around £500
Processing Power: 1 x Intel Pentium 4 520 2.8 GHz Hard drive: 1 x 40 GB - standard - Serial ATA-150 Memory: 256 MB (installed) / 4 GB (max) - DDR II SDRAM - non-ECC - 400 MHz - PC2-3200 Graphics controller: GMA 900 Dell Dimension 5150C This is a good-looking PC (if that’s important to you) and does the basics very well. Apparently, it’s pretty bad for running computer games, which will help you to focus on your business! Price: from £600 (approx)
Processing Power: Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading Technology Hard drive: Serial ATA Memory: 256MB Graphic controller: 128MB ATI Radeon X300 SE HyperMemory graphics card Packard Bell Imedia 1538  | | Dell Dimension 5150C | Another solid beginners’ PC, the Imedia 1538 can handle most startups’ needs. It has more memory and drive space than the machines listed above – useful if you plan to work fast and store a lot of data. Price: £599.00 (approx) Processing Power: Intel Pentium 4 519 Processor Hard drive: 160GB Memory: 512MB Graphics controller: 256MB GEforce 6200 LE TC 64 Graphics For most people PCs are the computer of choice, however if you think that you might need more design capabilities from your computer then you should consider an Apple Mac. They tend to be more expensive but arguably give you at least as much bang for your buck. Here are a few to whet your appetite. Apple iMac G5 Apple's latest all-in-one PCs are trendy as we... | 
