1. Get a quote on a new desktop system from the website of either HP (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. or Dell (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.. Once you are through making all desired modifications, collect the detailed specifications of the finished system into a Microsoft Word document. Be sure to include system pricing and detailed component information to the extent possible.
2. Using the detailed specifications from the HP or Dell quote as a guide, custom build a comparable system using individual parts shopped from NewEgg (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site., Amazon, and/or TigerDirect websites. The goal is to see how much it would cost to build a comparable system yourself. Collect and organize the custom build parts information along side the corresponding information from the HP/Dell quote, preferably in a side-by-side table, detailing each system’s specifications and pricing.
3. In the same Word document, write a three-five paragraph essay in which you compare and contrast the two systems, summarize your findings, make a recommendation, and explain your rationale. Be sure to follow the “guidelines for written work” section in the syllabus prior to submitting this and subsequent postings.