SofTech Computers in Prescott Offers Suggestions for New Computers That Are Running Slow

Whenever you get a new computer, the expectation is that it will be better and faster than the “old” computer. If you have a new computer you’ve purchased recently and think it’s still too slow and are thinking of putting a “better” computer on your holiday wish list, SofTech Computers in Prescott suggests you look at options that may make your current computer “just right”.

One of the first things to do is to check out how much RAM (random access memory) your computer has. For those non-techy people, RAM is the memory that is used while working on the computer - the more memory you have the bigger your work space. So it’s time to stop and take a look not only at how much memory you have, but what type of programs you are using and how much memory they need to run efficiently.

Basic Office Applications - For basic documents you can probably get by with 4gb of RAM, however if you are working on large documents or if you work on multiple documents at the same time, you will probably want at least 8gb of RAM

Web Browsing - For basic browsing with multiple tabs, you should be fine with 4gb, however if you have 20-30 tabs open at a time, you will probably want to have at least 8gb of RAM.

Streaming - This is becoming more popular all the time, with YouTube, Hulu, etc. Because videos contain both pictures and sound, they require more memory in order to run smoothly. If you plan on using your computer to stream videos, you will want to make sure your computer has plenty of room, so you should have 8gb-16gb minimum. If you try streaming and it stops and starts, more memory may be the answer.

Graphic Programs, such as photo editing software - Graphics programs take a lot more memory than your typical office documents. Not only for the data you are manipulating, but for the program itself. Adobe recommends a minimum of 8gb to run Photoshop. And if you are going to be working with multiple images, you will probably want to have at least 16gb of RAM.

Gaming - Since games have so many components, they also need a lot of memory to be able to run smoothly and quickly. The average “gaming computer” has 32gb or more of RAM.

So now is the time to see how much RAM your “new” computer really has. If it doesn’t have enough memory to manage the applications you want to run, maybe installing more memory will be a simple solution to make it better and to meet your needs. Or if you’re into the graphics and gaming, maybe an update to the GPU (Graphic Processor Unit) to allow your computer to process the graphics faster may be the answer.

Before you give up on your fairly new computer, maybe RAM or a GPU should be on your wish list this Christmas. To find out what options you have available, why not take a few minutes and talk to the pros down at SofTech Computers in Prescott. Just give them a call at 928-443-8770 or check out the website at http://www.softechcomputers.com.


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SofTech Computers in Prescott Explains Bloatware on your new Computer

So you just got a new computer and you’re sure it doesn’t have any of those viruses and stuff your old computer may have had. So it should run really fast, right? SofTech Computer Repair in Prescott hates to make you aware of a hidden danger. New computers often have bloatware that you may be unaware of that will affect the speed of your computer.

Unfortunately, a new computer often has a lot of preloaded software that you didn’t even ask for or may not be aware of - this is often called bloatware. Most bloatware probably won’t harm your computer, but it does take up space on your hard drive and could slow down your system. We’d like to give you an idea of some of the bloatware you may find on that new computer and what you might want to do about it.

Why? - The first question many people have is why would they put “extra” software on my computer that I didn’t ask for. Some say it is to give your system more tools to use, but the bottom line is revenue. Here are the three major bloatware you may find on your new computer.

Trialware - This is usually software that will run for a given period of time (like 30 days or six months) and then you will be required to purchase a software license to continue using the product. Examples of this type of software are McAfee, Norton and Microsoft Office. The good side of trialware is that they normally want you to use it, so it is easily accessed and also pretty easy to uninstall. The downside is that people often don’t realize that it is trialware and are unpleasantly surprised when the notice pops up telling them that they must purchase the software to continue using it.

Utilities and “Useful” Apps - Most manufacturers include some of their own software on your new computer - for example, Lenovo has their Lenovo Solution Center, Dell has Dell Solution Center, etc. These apps normally check your system for problems, software updates, etc. They may also install utilities by third parties for things like burning CDs, handling media, etc. Some of these can be uninstalled, others you may not be able to uninstall. The value of these apps depends on if they are useful to you o not.

Adware - This is the worst since it does nothing to help you. Its goal is to push ads onto your computer screen through websites, popups, etc. Unfortunately, it can do worse than just slow down your machine - it can also spy on you!

When buying that new computer, be aware of bloatware. It will be part of almost any new computer you purchase from the major “box” stores. While some bloatware can be uninstalled, others may be very difficult to eliminate. SofTech Computers in Prescott can help you with your new computer purchase, either by building your new computer for you without bloatware, or with helping you clean that unwanted software from your computer. For help with your computer setup in Prescott, either new or old, contact SofTech Computers at 928-443-8770 to speak with one of our technicians or check out our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com.

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SofTech Computers discusses malware removal in Prescott

As a computer owner, it is important to understand some of the things that might affect your computer. SofTech Computers, local Prescott professional for malware removal, would like to give you a little more information since it affects many computers every day.

Most computer users have heard about “viruses” that can attack your computer. A virus is a specific type of malware and the term is more familiar to the public. Malware is malicious software that is written to harm and infect a computer. Here are some types of malware:

Virus: This is a specific type of computer code that is contagious and infects other software on your computer. Once opened and shared, it can also spread to other computers.

Trojans: This is a type of virus that is designed to make the user think they it is a safe program and OK for them to run. They are often programmed to steal personal and financial information and in some cases to take over the resources of the computer’s system files.

Adware: Adware is advertising-supported software. It is designed to examine which Internet sites you visit frequently and then presents ads based on your usage. Not all adware has malicious intent, but it can slow down the performance of your computer.

Spyware: This malware actually spies on you and tracks your activity. This software allows a hacker to gain information about the computer user and is often very hard to detect.

Worms: This type of malware will replicate itself and destroys information and files saved on the computer, including the system operating files.

Ransomware: This is an advanced type of malware that restricts access to your computer system until the user pays a fee. It may show up as a pop-up warning stating that you have been locked out of your computer with a phone number to call to “get help”.

We all depend on our digital devices for online purchases, communication, online banking and more. In order to protect your devices from malware, it is important to have an effective virus/malware solution. The easiest solution is to bring it into one of our technicians at SofTech Computers in Prescott, where we can check your system for malware, and discuss options to help keep your computer safe and secure. Contact us at 928-443-8770 or visit our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com.

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Holiday buying guide for laptop computers from SofTech Computer Sales and Repair in Prescott

You’ve decided that the perfect holiday gift would be a new laptop computer. Before buying a new computer there are a number of questions you need to consider. Although it’s tempting to just go online and find the cheapest price buying one sight unseen can lead to disappointment. SofTech Computers, your local hometown computer heroes for support and sales in Prescott, brings you some tips to help with your holiday computer shopping.

Try It Out - Do some online research and then find local retailer who has the model you think you want. Pick it up and make sure it’s not heavier than you thought. Look at the screen and see how easy it is to see - maybe that 11” Chromebook may not be what you really want. Try out the keyboard and see if it has a touch and feel that you like. Try out the touchpad and see if it responds smoothly and quickly.

How Much RAM Do You Need - RAM is the memory that you use while you’re using the computer. The amount you need depends on what you will be doing with it, since video games and movies take more RAM than most business applications.

Which Processor Do Need - Most processors are predetermined by the model number. So, if you are looking for a gaming computer, you should look at the models that have the faster processing speed. If you’re going to be doing business applications, you will probably be fine with any of the current processors.

Also, you might want to think about sprucing up your current computer if it’s not too old. Accessories and more memory might just make that not-so-old computer run like new again. Maybe a full-size USB keyboard will make a laptop easier to use. A wireless mouse might make it easier than using touchpad.

Maybe a boost in the amount of memory will make those complex spreadsheets work better. With laptops, it’s advisable to trust a professional when adding memory.

Have questions? Stop in and see SofTech Computers today. We can help! If you do choose to purchase a new computer, your next hurdle is setting up the operating system, peripherals, etc. to all work together. The easiest solution is to bring it in to our pros at our Prescott computer shop, we will get everything up and running, and discuss option to help keep your computer safe and secure. Contact us at 928-443-8770 or visit our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com.

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SofTech Computer Sales in Prescott talks about the best time to buy a laptop

It’s upsetting when you’ve just bought a new laptop for over $1,000 and then you see it “On Sale” for only $779 just months later. Worse yet, you see the new and improved version for what you paid for older technology. In the world of laptops, having current technology is fleeting, as things are always changing. However, it might be nice to know when the best time is to buy a laptop. SofTech Computer repair and sales in Prescott, would like to help answer that, but part of that depends on your circumstances.

If you have a laptop that has just died, or you get a “blue screen”, or you find that the software you need to use will not run on your old system, then the time to buy the new laptop is now, because you need it to do your work.

However, if your current laptop is working OK, and the need is not critical, you may be able to save money by strategically waiting for the best time to replace it. Most of the computer manufacturers release new models a three time a year: Back to School (June to August), Holiday season (September to December) and Spring (February to April).

Some of the best prices are during the Back to School season with the student marketing frenzy. However, you can also find good deals during the Holiday season, as retailers quite often have year and inventory reduction pricing to get ready for the new year.

When deciding on the right time for you to purchase that new laptop, you have to consider both price and obsolescence. From a price perspective, you are likely to see some great deals this holiday season. Obsolescence is not as big of an issue as it once was, and normally an older model will still work for many years.

In addition to price, you also need to consider how you will be using the laptop. If you are using it just for business applications, your requirements will be quite different from someone using it for gaming. If you are unsure of what choice to make when purchasing a new laptop, stop by SofTech Computers, your local computer repair and sales in Prescott, or give us a call at 928-443-8770 to discuss your laptop needs with people who care. You can also find our website at http://softechcomputers.com.

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Gaming PC VS. Workstation - Buying a high end computer? SofTech Computer Sales in Prescott Explains

Are you a hard-core computer user that demands a machine with superior performance? With so many options for computers out there it can be confusing to determine what type of computer you should be looking for. With higher end gaming computers and business workstations leading the pack with virtually the same specs, what is the difference? SofTech Computers, retailer of custom computer systems in Prescott, brings you some valuable information to help you decide before your next computer purchase.

Let’s be clear here, we are talking about readily available Windows based standalone PCs, not completely insane gaming rigs or expensive enterprise level solutions which might cost more than $10,000! These computers can run in the range of $1,000 to $3,000 and be equipped with AMD or Intel processors.

What is the main difference of the two?

• Workstation PC: This computer is usually used by engineers, designers, and developers. Really anyone who works with a lot of data manipulation and processing power relying on a wide range of workloads.
• Gaming PC: This computer is used mainly for gaming, as the name implies, and is built on sheer performance and speed for a variety of tasks related to specific tasks.

Main workstation differences

Workstations are built on reliability, catering to those who make a living working on their computer, and in which the parts are designed to last as long as possible. Several differences over other computers include special RAM and hard drive configurations to limit errors with data and processing. These computers may also come with alternative power supply options to limit power failure that can result in data loss.

Other main differences include special video cards that provide professional graphics and reliability, professional versions of the operating system, special motherboards outfitted with specs that are just not needed for personal PC or gaming computer.

Main gaming rig differences

 Gaming PCs, although outfitted with impressive hardware, still has a budget in mind. These computers are usually outfitted with CPUs designed for specific tasks and lack additional processor cores used for data crunching of the workstation computers. Many times, these computers are overclocked to provide more speed during gaming, however overclocking can cause the computer to overheat requiring additional cooling equipment adding to the overall cost.

Gaming PCs are built on little more than speed. Faster RAM, hard drives, and over clocked CPUs; most other parts are included to manage and cool these devices. The parts of these computer are constantly being upgraded, and given the competitive nature of these machines and their users, you will always be upgrading to keep ahead of the competition.

The good, the bad, and the ugly

Truth be told, a quality workstation may run you a $1,000 more than a gaming computer with the same specs, however there are any things that do not appear on the spec label’s overview. Many small nuances sometimes make a workstation a far better investment for the long term and future upgradeability. Aesthetically however, prebuilt gaming PCs are often better looking than their workhorse cousins, and manufacturers of these computers tend to dress up these computers with LED lights, alien heads, or skulls to appear to their audience. Workstations are not so appealing, however a look under the hood may leave a gamer wanting to take it for a test drive.

So, without discussing specific numbers that might be obsolete next year for the gaming PC owner, what kind of computer do you need? Still haven’t made up your mind? SofTech Computers, Prescott’s custom computer shop, is here to help you decide. Stop in today to talk with out knowledgeable staff about your next computer purchase or contact us today. Call 928-443-8770 or visit our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com.

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What makes a good computer a great computer? - SofTech Computers in Prescott

Do you like to play games? Does your job involve image or video editing? How about high-
quality sound recording? If you said yes to any one of these or just want a screaming fast
computer, you might be wondering what exactly makes a computer high quality. Well, SofTech
Computers, Prescott's leading computer repair and service shop, is here to explain the
difference between okay and enthusiast hardware, and what you should choose for your needs.
Each computer has 7 main parts that can make or break a system:

Enthusiast Computers are on fire - not literally though

• The CPU - This is the main “brain” of the computer and can seriously make or break the performance of a computer. The main thing that the average consumer needs to know about processors is that having more cores and more speed means a faster computer. 4 cores is the current standard, with specialized hardware running all the way up to 16 cores.
• The Motherboard - This is where all of the stuff sits, and is one of the most common things to go bad on a computer. While there are a lot of different things that are important to a system builder like SofTech, the gist of it is that higher prices equals better lifetime and better future proofing.
• The RAM - RAM is basically short-term memory -- having too much is unnecessary, and having too little can really slow you down. Depending on the application, RAM can typically range from 4GB to 32GB or more.
• The Graphics Card/Chip - The graphics device determines how fast you can play video games, edit high quality images in things like Photoshop and videos in things like AfterEffects, as well as speeds up the entire computer a little bit. If you are doing anything besides sound recording and light web browsing, a graphics card could be right for you. These range in price from $30 to $800 depending on the application and quality desired.
• The Sound Card - A sound card can be very important for people dealing with video or audio production, as it can allow for hookups to things like high quality microphones, guitars, and pianos, as well as produce high quality audio output. If you aren’t working with studio quality sound, the built-in sound card that every computer has should be enough.
• The Storage - What type of storage device you use in your computer is the main thing that makes the difference between low end and high end. There are two types of storage: hard drives and solid state drives (SSDs). Standard hard drives are usually for lower end devices and solid state drives are generally used in high end devices... An SSD is a great addition to any computer to increase its speed and longevity. Another consideration when talking about storage is the amount. You might want to consider getting fast storage in a small quantity and slow storage in a large quantity if you edit videos or pictures, or play lots of video games. Ask SofTech Computers about how you can replace your traditional drive with a SSD today!
• The Case - Finally, the case is the thing you see on the outside. It holds your CD drive, your USB ports, and all of your other inputs and outputs. A higher quality case will also contain fans and other cooling devices that can help keep higher end or enthusiast parts cool under a large workload.

So, now you know what all of the parts do, what do you need? Do you need a good CPU and
graphics card, but not a good sound card? Maybe you need a soundcard and a good case with
lots of inputs to hook up all of your instruments and microphones. Or maybe you want to play
video games at the highest speeds. The higher quality parts of each type equate to an overall
higher quality computer.

Whatever your needs are, SofTech Computers in Prescott – Your Local Hometown Computer
Heroes, can help you make the best decision for your money. You just tell us what you need to
do, and we can help you do that, while sticking within almost any budget. If you are looking into
getting an enthusiast computer or upgrading your own, give us a call at 928-443- 8770 or visit
our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com for more information or to get a quote on how
we can help you meet your computing needs.

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