Best bytes in Beijing
MARK GODFREY
Graduated from a prestigious Beijing university program in Zhongguancun - often referred to as China's Silicon Valley - Ning Rong was a software programmer for some of the world's largest software names before deciding he was bored by sitting the whole day in front of a screen. So he taught himself English and set up his own business servicing and selling computers and computer parts for a largely foreign clientele in Beijing's expanding expatriate world. Trading as John's PC, his store in the city's university district is busy around the clock. In expansionary mood, Ning Rong shared some of his expertise on computers.
What are most computers coming in these days in terms of processor and memory size?
A lot of computer manu-facturers and retailers put in about 1 gigabyte of random access memory (RAM) which is suitable for everyday things like loading Microsoft Word. But if you want to run a lot of programs at the same time you'd need about 4 GB.
What's optimal in central processor units or CPUs?
It all depends on what you're going to use it for. The newest PC computers are adding 3.3 and 3.6 gigahertz in their CPUs and most high-end notebooks are adding in over two gigahertz in Intel or AMD processors. AMD and Intel are the most common processor brands. Intel's dual and now quad core processors are very visible.
What's the difference between a netbook and a notebook?
A netbook is much cheaper than a notebook as it contains fewer features. It's good for Microsoft Word and Internet Explorer. The netbook's random access memory and processor are both usually half as big as those in a notebook.
How important is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly connect to other Bluetooth enabled devices within a 10-metre zone. That's really convenient if you have a printer or mobile phone that's Bluetooth compatible.
What's the most common problem of customers who come to you for repairs?
Viruses mostly. Or hard-ware tasks like adding more memory.
And memory?
As the hard drive is the long-term data storage system it's important you'd have at least 120 megabytes installed when you buy. But if you want to store a lot of data on your machine, then go for 250 megabytes.
Why do computer prices become ever more affordable?
Technology prices are constantly being driven down. Hardware manufacturers work on thin margins. Also as technology moves so fast, once a computer is obsolete there's not a lot of resale value. A computer that cost 10,000 yuan ($1,476)in 2006 can be replaced by a lighter and more powerful 6,000 yuan ($885.6) model today.
Was Windows Vista worth all the hype?
Windows XP is better but it's already too outdated to comfortably run many of the programmes which have come out in the meantime such as broadband streaming options.
Why are computers cheaper in Hong Kong than Beijing?
Simply because there's no tax on consumer goods like computers in Hong Kong.
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