Features to check in hunt for PC

If you're shopping for a computer, think about it the way you'd shop for a car.

That means checking out the "sticker" on the retailer's shelf or Web site. Like the sticker on a new-car window, it will list each feature and tell you exactly what you're paying for.

With that in mind, here is my component-by-component breakdown:

• Microprocessor: The majority of Windows-based computers and all new consumer Macs use a variant of Intel's Core 2 Duo processor, so named because it combines two processor cores on one chip. A few high-performance models have CPUs labeled Core 2 Extreme or Core 2 Quad (four processors). Most non-Intel processors come from Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). These are compatible with Intel chips.

As a rule, Intel models with higher numbers are more powerful. Also, a processor that runs at higher speed, measured in gigahertz, is likely to perform better than a slower one.

• Memory: The more memory a PC has, the faster and more reliably it will operate. To run Windows Vista Home Premium Edition or Apple's new Leopard operating system properly, I recommend 2 gigs of RAM, although low-end models often come with half that much. Upgrade before you leave the store, if possible.

• Hard-disk storage: Often confused with memory, the hard disk stores programs and data permanently and shuttles information back and forth into RAM while your PC is running. Hard-disk capacity is measured in gigabytes.

If you plan on storing lots of video, look for a machine with 250 GB. Otherwise, 120 to 160 GB probably will do — in fact, that's the standard for most off-the-shelf laptops.

• Video adapter: The video adapter determines what appears on your monitor.

For basic computing, the standard video adapter — often manufactured by Intel — will suffice. Remember that these adapters often "share" the computer's main memory, and the sticker will usually note this. Memory sharing can reduce performance. To get the most from Vista Home Premium and play games at their highest resolution, look for an adapter with at least 128 megabytes of dedicated memory.

• Multimedia: With the exception of lightweight laptops, all PCs have some type of compact disc drive. It is used to install new software, back up data and provide entertainment from CDs or DVDs.

For maximum flexibility, get one that can read and write DVDs as well as CDs. The ability to create a disk is usually abbreviated with "RW," for read/write. A DVD-RW can create CDs and DVDs. A drive labeled CD-RW/DVD can create CDs but will play only movies or read from DVDs.

• Sound: The audio circuits built into most PCs are fine for everyday listening. But music buffs who want the highest fidelity and gamers who need seven-speaker surround sound should look for high-end internal components from Creative Labs, Turtle Beach or specialty vendors.

• Monitor: Flat-panel monitors with liquid crystal displays (LCDs) rule the desktop market today, just as they have dominated laptop computing.

For a desktop machine, get a 17-inch monitor at minimum, but a 19- or 20-inch screen will make your life easier for as little as $100 extra.

If you are in a store, look for a monitor that is good at distinguishing subtle shades of gray and whose image does not fade when viewed from an angle.

• Ports: The more USB ports you have, the better. If you're buying a laptop, look for three or more (including one on each side). Better desktop computers have four to six.

Macs and higher-end PCs also have ports labeled FireWire or IEEE 1394 designed for communication with camcorders, external disk drives and other high-speed devices.