Computers, or PCs, are currently used in almost all fields of human activity. They have become an integral part of our lives. Few, however, would believe that the word "computer" originally referred to a person who performed calculations. The modern definition of the word first occurred when American scientists began work on the production of the first atomic bomb. The term "PC" (personal computer) first entered the lexicon in 1981, with the introduction of the first IBM PC (IBM 5150) to the market.
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Since the first IBM PC, computers have evolved beyond recognition. Monochrome CRT monitors have been replaced by thin, modern LCD displays; cumbersome computer cases have been replaced with sleeker, more stylsh designs. Individual components inside the computer have also seen rapid progress. Today's processors contain at least two cores and operate at frequencies thousands of times higher than those of the first PCs. Graphics cards achieve such high levels of performances that gamers can enjoy lifelike visual experiences. Sound cards offer true multichannel audio as immersive as an action movie.
So what should you look for when selecting a new computer? Important parameters include a good motherboard, a powerful processor and graphics card, a sufficient amount of RAM, expansion capabilities, and the size of the hard drive. You should also consider whether you want a DVD burner or Blu-ray drive, and which operating system (usually a version of Microsoft Windows) the computer runs. Last but not least, consider the overall appearance and design of the computer.
