Desktop Computers
A desktop computer is a non-portable computer for regular use. Desktop computers are typically sizable with significant power requirements and are placed on a desk or table along with its associated computer hardware accessories. Like related computer devices such as laptops and tablets, desktops computers remain popular for making work more comfortable and more efficient through greater capabilities around processing, storing, and retrieving information. Desktop computers were once the normative computers found everywhere, but with the growing popularity and technical capabilities of laptops and tablets, their use is now mostly limited to offices, schools, and home. Desktop computers commonly have a separate silo-like processing tower and cannot function without accessories like the keyboard, mouse, or computer monitor. Apple's iMac computer is the first desktop computer to combine the desktop tower with the computer monitor.
When purchasing a desktop computer be mindful of what you intend to use the computer for and create a budget for it. Decide if a laptop or desktop would be a better fit, look at the specs that the computer offers like the processor, RAM, hard drive, graphics, and potential software included.
A desktop computer typically lasts between 3 to 5 years. If it is properly maintained it can last more than 10 years. The factors that change the length of a desktop computer’s lifetime are its maintenance, cooling system, and daily use. If a PC is used daily it will wear down much sooner than if it is only used occasionally.
A desktop computer generally uses between 60 to 250 watts depending if it is on sleep mode or in active use. When a desktop computer is in sleep mode it uses about 20 percent of the power it generally uses when it is in use. A laptop consumes 15 to 45 watts while a 22-inch LCD monitors uses about 25 watts.
