How to Shop for a Workstation

In the early days of computing, the workstation was basically a user's way to access information on the mainframe computer. The workstation itself had very little computing power, and if unplugged from the mainframe computer, would become useless for most work. Today, workstations are powerful additions to an overall network. While still gaining and sharing programs and information on a server, the workstation can run a number of applications by itself. The workstation is one of the big factors in how fast the computer network works for each person.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Comparison Shop for a Great Workstation

1. Ask yourself how you will use the workstation or how employees will use the workstation. Know what programs you will use and whether they are graphic intensive.

2. Consider how often you will upgrade software. If you upgrade software often, you will need to shop for a workstation with the most computing power. Software developers typically write for newer computers which can work with larger programs.

3. Prepare a spreadsheet to help you compare various models of workstations. List computer components (ports, memory, CPU speed, graphics card, price, etc.) along the left side and list workstation models along the top. You need an easy reference to look at to compare models while you shop.

4. Shop for different models and enter the various options and components on the spreadsheet. Be sure to include the price.

5. Choose the workstation with the best features and price combination. If you need multiple work stations, ask about a volume discount as you shop.

6. Shop for companies with the ability to install the workstations you purchase. This is especially important if you do not have an IT person who can do the installation.

7. Make your purchase and quit looking at workstations. Technology changes rapidly, and you will notice big changes every 6 months or so, which can be frustrating.

Tips & Warnings

• Large programs and graphic-intensive applications (like audio, photo and video editing) require a large amount of memory and dedicated graphics-card memory to function at top speeds.
• Keep in mind how long you plan to use the workstations on the computer network. If using the workstations for more than 4 years, shop for more powerful machines.
• If your programs are meeting your needs, don't bother upgrading software until you need to.
• Make sure you purchase a workstation with enough USB and/or firewire ports to meet all of your peripheral needs.
• Be sure to compare components and price. You may find better prices for a workstation with fewer components but then be disappointed with how they function.