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FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND LANGUAGES

CBCT2203

BASIC CONCEPTS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Degree: Bachelor in Education (TESL)

Name: Nirukshi Perera

UGS00068643

Reg NO: BED07009

Email : Nirukshiperera1205@gmail.com

0702154541

Learning Centre: IIHS,Welisara,Srilanka

May 2021
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Table of Contents

1. Introduction………………………………………………………………3
2. Best type of computer for the company………………………………….4
2.1. Justification 1 – flexible upgrading and easy maintenance……….5
2.2. Justification 2 – lower security risk……………………………….5
3. Criteria to be considered…………………………………………………6
3.1. Speed………………………………………………………………6
3.2. Cost………………………………………………………………..6
3.3. Storage…………………………………………………………….7
4. Hardware and software requirements……………………………………8
4.1. Hardware………………………………………………………….8
5. Conclusion……………………………………………………………….9
6. References……………………………………………………………….10
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1. Introduction

This business proposal is intended for, as planned by the company, for upgrading and hence
replacing several computers in use with brand new latest computers. Every new venture into a
business requires an informative business proposal and as the IT manager of this company it is
my responsibility. Therefore the main purpose of this proposal is to relate a description regarding
the best type of computer that will suit the company’s needs. Further, this proposal will enable
the relevant managers and executives to make the best decision regarding this matter.

The company is an e-commerce business called Eboutique.lk founded in 2002. Eboutique.lk is an

online supermarket selling a different range of products from grocery items to cosmetics to
stationary. Its head office is based at Colombo 10 and facilitates online buying for customers
24/7 through the website and the app. The aim of the company is to provide an online platform
with a variety of products delivered to the door step in a short period of time conveniently to the
customers.

The replacements according to the proposal is going to be regarding the old computers in the
head office of Eboutique.lk. This proposal will explain about which type of computer is best for
the company with justifications, what criteria’s should be considered before purchasing and
discussions on the hardware and software required for the computer. In brief the main aim will
be to give clarity on which type of computer suits best for this e-commerce business.
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2. Best type of computer for the company

For a business setting such as this – working from an office – the most suitable type of computer
would be a desktop computer (a type of microcomputer). And there are a number of reasons to
back up this idea. Before going to the details let’s discuss about the modern day desktop
computer. A desktop computer is a computer based on a microprocessor that is used at a single
location, mostly on a desk because of its size and extra requirements compared to a laptop
computer. They require other peripheral devices for inputs and outputs for it to fully function,
such as a mouse, keyboard, a CPU, printer, etc…

Important parts of a desktop computer

During the early ages of computers desktop computers were the only available personal
computers and came with many advantages. Later, with the introduction of the laptop computers
and the rise in mobile computing there is a notable decrease in the use of desktop computers.
“However, desktop computers remain the most popular choice for business workstations and
family computers.” (Christensson, 2011). Today, desktop computers are commonly used in
office environments as well as for gaming.
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This is due to the fact that a desktop computer has more power and features. They are less
expensive overall and offers a better overall value. It is easier and less expensive when it comes
to upgrades and repairing. And most important, desktop computers have a lower risk of theft,
which means less chance of losing your data and having to pay to replace your computer, which
is a great benefit to a business handling online transactions. Further justifications will be
discussed below.

2.1. Justification 1 – Flexible upgrading and easy maintenance

A great advantage of desktop computers compared to other portables is that you can attach
external devices to accommodate the device when needed. Desktops are flexible and allows you
to choose whichever components you select and to choose parts that offer the service you need
under different circumstances. Compared to laptops, desktops offer many more convenient
upgrade options. On a desktop PC it is easier to upgrade memory by buying new RAM, or other
tasks such as installing a graphic card or processor, upgrading a SSD or video card, expanding
the hard drive, or replacing a broken component is easy and can be done in a local computer
repair shop. Repairs are super easy and simple maintenance such as clearing dust from inside the
CPU or changing a hard drive can be easily done by anyone. This makes them more durable than
laptops, an important factor in a busy office.

2.2. Justification 2 – Lower security risk

Another reason to pick a desktop computer over other types of computers (laptops) is because of
security issues and theft. Laptops computer are potable and therefore it can be moved from the
workplace to the home and back forth when needed. It is said that more than a third of laptop
thefts occur in the workplace. This can cause security concerns and data can be stolen.
Additionally, the high cost of laptop computers make it vulnerable to be stolen. Thieves and
hackers can misuse the business information and personal data which will be dangerous. Hence,
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the better option would be to have desktop computers in a business firm, especially as it is an e-
commerce business doing online transactions.

3. Criteria to be considered

Below are some criteria to be considered when choosing the best type of computer matching the
company requirements.

3.1. Speed

Nowadays we are getting used to getting everything done instantaneously and expect the same
from the devices we use. The speed of the devices in use is especially important when it comes
to businesses. Computer processor speed is an important element when purchasing computers.
“A processor is made up of hardware that works together to deliver information, allowing your
computer to complete the tasks that you request when you open an application or make changes
to a file. Whether it processes quickly or painfully slowly can make a big impact on your
computing experience.” (Sirois, 2018). Ensuring that the processor is functioning properly is
very important to decide the longevity and functionality of the computer.

Desktop PC’s have the best processing speed. Desktops generate more power than laptops
because they have the ability for more processing speed. And they have more space therefore
desktops have better cooling systems not allowing the PC to get overheated, and slow in speed.
Additionally, the desktop CPU can be removed and easier to change or upgrade if there is a
problem with the processor speed. And then there is the luxury of installing powerful processors
as needed. 3.5 to 4.2 would be a recommended processor speed for business use.

3.2. Cost

Desktops are generally less expensive than laptops. And desktops don’t have to be replaced
frequently like laptops, providing more power and usage over the cost. They also tend to be more
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durable and less vulnerable to damage, saving money, which is ideal for a business setting. They
tend to have a longer life expectancy because they stay in one place and this causes less damage,
reducing cost.

3.3. Storage

The hard disk drive is a storage device that is used for installing files and data on a computer,
and most computers have it. They are of two types, internal and external. While one cannot
upgrade the internal hard disk drive in laptops, it is upgradable for desktop computers. Desktop
disk drives have more storage capacity than laptops. The desktop hard drive disk is bigger as it
has more space. It can range for more than 3TB. It runs at a speed of 7200 rpm, increasing the
speed of the computer. Further, in a desktop computer the loading time is less and therefore can
be used for many purposes like storing data, applications, videos, images, etc…
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4. Hardware and software requirements

4.1. Hardware

The Processor also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit) is known as the brain of the
computer and the most important part of a computer system. “The CPU is the primary
component of a computer that processes instructions. It runs the operating system and
applications, constantly receiving input from the user or active software programs. It processes
the data and produces output, which may be stored by an application or displayed on the screen.”
(Christensson, 2014). It consists of the Main memory/registers, Control Unit and the
Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU). The Control Unit directs movement of electronic signals between
main memory and ALU and also between main memory and input/output devices. It controls and
co-ordinates computer components. The ALU performs arithmetic and logic operations and
controls speed of operations. Arithmetic calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication
and division and logical operation like numbers, letters, or special characters. Registers are high-
speed storage areas that store data during processing.

Storage/computer memory is of two parts, primary memory and secondary memory. The primary
memory consists of the RAM and ROM. RAM is the temporary storage and if changes are not
changed then contents can be lost when the power is turned off. The more amount of RAM, the
computer has better performance. ROM on the other hand is a permanent form of storage.
Another primary storage is the cache. It is of high speed than the RAM and used for instructions
and data that is used frequently. The secondary storage is not directly accessible by the CPU. The
hard disk drive is the main, and usually largest, secondary data storage device in a computer. Can
be used to store documents, anti-viral software, etc… Other than the hard disk, Optical Disks
(CD), flash disks, floppy disks, and the most popular USB drive are some examples of
removable secondary storage.
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The CPU and storage devices are not the only important hardware when using a desktop
computer. There are other input and output devices that are used for a computer to function
properly. For example, the keyboard, mouse, speakers, monitor, printer, which can all be used
for desktops in an office.

5. Conclusion

Desktop PCs can’t be moved around like a laptop, but they’re easier to repair and maintain, and
they provide more power for your money than comparable laptop computers. When considering
all the possible criteria’s, there are many advantages identified and is an ideal computer for an
office setting doing transactions online. The Best computer to buy would be the Desktop
PC because it is fast, has lots of memory space, is a quick processor, has no battery and its very
cheap. Therefore, as the IT manager I would like to propose that we upgrade and replace the
older computers with newer versions of desktop computers.
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6. References

Christensson, P. (2011, March 10). Desktop Computer Definition. https://techterms.com

Christensson, P. (2014, July 11). CPU Definition. https://techterms.com

Sirois, S (2018). What is Processor Speed and Why Does It Matter?

https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/what-is-processor-speed