Basic System Requirements

[Peter]

Hi
I am trying to find where the site is on the web that
lists what the basic machine requirements (CPU, memory
and so on) are for a machine running XP, 2000, 98.
Also how do I figure out the amount of memory and CPU I
should have if I have additional programs so my system
will run efficiently.
FOr example if I have a machine that is running windows
XP professional and I meet the basic requirements for the
system how much additional memory do I need if say I add
the Office suite to the machine.
Also the machine is on a network how do I figure out the
amount of memory the machine needs to handle the network
connection. I have the knowledge from books but I need
to download from a microsoft site so that I may present
it to my boss as he is not techinically inclined and does
not believe what the books say. If I am able to print
this from a microsoft course he will have to consider the
changes I have suggested.

Can anyone help me by giving me the http address where I
may find this information ??

Peter

[Rob Schneider]

Peter wrote:

> Hi
> I am trying to find where the site is on the web that
> lists what the basic machine requirements (CPU, memory
> and so on) are for a machine running XP, 2000, 98.
> Also how do I figure out the amount of memory and CPU I
> should have if I have additional programs so my system
> will run efficiently.
> FOr example if I have a machine that is running windows
> XP professional and I meet the basic requirements for the
> system how much additional memory do I need if say I add
> the Office suite to the machine.
> Also the machine is on a network how do I figure out the
> amount of memory the machine needs to handle the network
> connection. I have the knowledge from books but I need
> to download from a microsoft site so that I may present
> it to my boss as he is not techinically inclined and does
> not believe what the books say. If I am able to print
> this from a microsoft course he will have to consider the
> changes I have suggested.
>
> Can anyone help me by giving me the http address where I
> may find this information ??
>
> Peter

There is lots written on this topic, but at the end of the day they are
it's just guidelines.

For XP:
- 128 minimum spec to at least run ... but you'll find performance
unacceptable especially if you try to do anything with the computer
beyond turning it on. (Since this least expensive option, your boss
will like it, but nobody else will).
- 256 minimum reasonable spec ... which is why this typically the amount
of memory installed in machines sold by hardware vendors. Enough to be
sort of good enough and still seem price competitive. "Good" enough for
non-demanding users, e.g. users who won't complain to you or your boss.
- 512 is "sweet" and what I use and whole-heartedly recommend. Delta
cost above 256 is small. Recommended.
- Above 512 ... probably better, but only if you use large applications
that like lots of memory. If you need this, you'll already know.

For 2000: probably same as XP
For 98: same as XP, but start with 64 as min, 128 minimum reasonable
spec, and 256 "sweet".

You will not likely find the above information/guidance published on a
Microsoft web site, which apparently your boss needs.