Computer Specs Made Easy

Need a new laptop for school, clinical practice, or pleasure? I have been in the same boat for a while. Luckily, I have a computer engineering husband (and access to YouTube) to learn about computer specifications, or how the nerds say “computer specs.” Summarized below are the most important specs for nurses to consider when selecting their computer. I hope you find this helpful. Feel free to email me or comment below with questions. 

What to Look for in Computer Specifications:

1. Processor (or CPU): this is the speed of the computer measured in gigahertz (GHz); computers usually range from 1.5-3 GHz with the higher the number the faster the computing speed. The speed also depends on how may processors the computer has and how sophisticated they are. So, always looks for the newest generation and a “multi-core” processor. Right now, you’re probably going to want the Intel 4th Generation Core i5 or i7. 
2. Hard Drive: the amount of storage on your computer.  So how much music, movies, and files you can store. There are two types: hard disk drive (HDD) and solid state drive (SSD) both measured in gigabytes (GB). The SSD is newer, faster, quieter, and better for nurses. Look for a 128 GB (will suffice), 256 GB (will be better if you can afford it), or 512 GB (probably not necessary). 
3. RAM (random access memory): computer memory measured in GB. Always look for a computer with at minimum 2  GB of RAM, but I recommend 4 GB or more.

Three other things to consider: screen size (the length of the screen diagonal measured in inches), weight (the computer’s actual weight measured in ounces or pounds), and  battery-life (how long the computer lasts not plugged in). These three things are really up to you. As for screen size, I prefer 12-15 inches. The laptop I used to get through school was 13 inches, and I had no trouble with it at all. As for weight, if you are going to be dragging it back and forth between classes, I’d say the lighter the better. Battery life should probably be around 8-11 hours. Finally, unless you are a hardcore video gamer or intend on editing HD video, don’t worry about getting a fancy graphics card. Just focus on the things mentioned above: processor, hard drive, memory, screen size, weight, and battery life.