Computer Specs

[Skinner]

When I look for a new computer what are some of the things I should consider with uploading and processing pics?

[Ricochet]

I'm no computer geek, but I'd say you need a minimum of 2GB of RAM to edit pics.  Before I upgraded, my computer only had 1/2 GB and I would literally fall asleep waiting for the edit to finish!  You can always add extra hard drive space.

[whacker1]

Most new computers come with Windows Vista for an operating system, which is a very large complex program, so  buy as much RAM as possible to keep the operating speed up.

I have 1gb and it is not enough, runs really slow.

[300UltraMagShooter]

Laptop or Tower?

[Skinner]

Have a laptop going to buy a desktop w/tower

[muleysgirl13]

I believe most of the computers come standard with this now but my tower has all the slots for digital camera memory cars to slip into.  I thinks it's a pretty handy feature especially if you use someone elses camera and want to pull the pictures off quick you don't have to worry about having their cameras software and all that.  Ram is a huge one if I can affoard more ram I always will get more.  Also Im not a huge fan of Norton and alot of computers come with it on it already I like AVG but thats just my 

[Grizzle]

An easy area to overlook is your digital storage & backup requirements.  Personally I run an economical 1T fully mirrored (if one drive fails the other keeps going) external drive setup, all the important stuff is there (pics, video, mp3), with an "offline" copy in a fireproof safe.  If you run it external, then it shouldn't affect your PC requirements too much.

[magnanimous_j]

RAM RAM and more RAM.

I have 4gigs of premium stuff and I wish I had more. A good processor is a must too, I have a AMD Phenom 9850 Quad Core. Get as much HD space as you can afford as well. I've got a 2TB drive.

Try building it yourself, you'll get much more comp for a lot less money. I've built a dozen systems and can answer most all your questions or help you pick out components. 1 afternoon putting it together = hundreds of dollars saved.

[huntnphool]

Just pick up a 1 terabyte hard drive and store all your pics separately on it, keep it in your safe and you will never have to worry about losing those precious home pics Costco had them for $110 a month ago.