Computer Hardware & Software Project
OBJECTIVES: Successful completion of this assignment demonstrates your
understanding of the following course level outcomes:
1. Explain the functions of hardware, software, data, procedures, and people in a
business computer system.
2. Identify the major hardware elements of a computer system and describe the
purpose of each element.
3. Understand the role of and use of a variety of widely used software packages
including spreadsheets, word processors, databases, and presentation software.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the operating system and utility programs.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the programming process and the role of
software in solving business-related problems.
DIRECTIONS:
For this project, assume that you are in the market for a new personal computer. Give
some thought to the type of computer that best fits your lifestyle and the tasks you
need it to perform. Clearly state your hardware and software computing needs and
why by addressing the following:
1. Processing & Memory: What are your needs regarding processing speed and
amount of memory?
2. Storage: What are your needs regarding storage and how will your new
computer address these needs?
3. Input & Output: What are some input and output devices that would assist
your needs? What type(s) of interface(s) does the computer have for connecting
a monitor? How many USB ports?
4. Operating System: What type of operating system and why?
5. Application software: What types and why:
6. Security: What type of security will you use to protect your computer and why?
Include a comparison matrix of three vendors from your market search for a
personal computer that meets your stated needs. Comparison should include
required hardware and software requirements and then list specifications, prices,
brand, shipping, delivery time, warranty terms, etc. for three possible devices.
Refer to the “Guide to Buying a PC” in the References and Resources Guide at
the end of our textbook.
A final concluding paragraph should state which computer you would buy and
how it best met your criteria.
Grading Rubric:
Description Pts Student
Score
Student describes their computer processing & memory needs 10
Student describes their computer storage needs 10
Student describes their computer input & output needs 10
Student describes their computer operating system needs 10
Student describes their computer software application needs 110
Student describes how they will address cybersecurity needs 10
Student prepares a comparison chart containing their requirements and includes
three different systems on the chart with the chart information for each system.
10
Student includes a one-paragraph summary explaining why he or she chose that
system.
10
Report and chart are prepared neatly and is reasonably free of typographical,
spelling, and grammatical errors.
10
Student submits documentation along with the comparison sheet on time. 10
TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS: 100
