Actual CPU Speeds – What You See Is Not Always What You Get

Clock speeds on modern Intel processors are not straight-forward, a fact that is attested to by the several articles we have published on that topic in recent years. This can lead to confusion over what CPU to pick when configuring a new computer, especially for higher-end workstations and servers with high core count processors. I am hoping this blog post will shed a little light on that subject, and help readers be better able to select the right CPU for their needs.

7 Things to Do with Your New Computer

I am sometimes asked by customers what they should make sure to do with a new computer before they start using it heavily for work or play. I put together a list of what I consider the basics that just about everyone would benefit from doing, and will share it here.

Worth the Wait

“Our coffee is roasted each Tuesday.”

It was Wednesday and I was out of my favorite coffee from Blue Bottle. Add in shipping and I’d have to wait for another week and a half. I considered another brand, but that didn’t last long.

I decided it was worth the wait for what I consider to be the best.

Most companies I do business with take the opposite approach of Blue Bottle: their business is built around speed. Need a Diet Coke? The McDonald’s drive-thru is fast. If I need a pizza delivered ASAP I’ll call Domino’s. Lenscrafters promises eyeglasses in about an hour. And I can’t recall the last time I took my car to the dealer to have the oil changed.

Speed sells. It’s that simple. Of course, there are some services where speed isn’t a virtue. For example, I am not interested in the fastest or least expensive lasik surgeon.

Elegance in Simplicity

Shortly after my wife and I moved into our first house, I decided to build out a home theater. I spent months researching receivers, speakers, and cables. A number of friends chimed in with suggestions. Once I felt confident with my configuration, I began acquiring each component, piece by piece.

With the help of an audio-savvy friend, I finally got my theater up and running. I even remember the first DVD I watched was the Eagles: When Hell Freezes Over because it was available in DTS. As those first few chords of Hotel California echoed through my home, I felt excited and relief that it was over.

Why Are Your Computers So Expensive?

“Why are your systems so expensive?”

I run into this question from time to time. It is understandable I suppose, since so many computer companies have worked to make their systems cheaper and cheaper to make them more appealing to a number of folks. As one company does this, then another company will attempt to do the same with a slightly lower price than the other in an effort to compete in that market.

Why to Choose a Xeon

Despite Intel directing the Xeon processor line toward specific types of computers – primarily servers and workstations – there has been some confusion over when they are the appropriate choice versus a more mainstream processor. I’ve had gamers ask about Xeons because they thought they were more powerful, and likewise I have had businesses ask about running servers on Core i7 processors. So when does a Xeon make sense, and what do they really bring to the table?

My Impressions of Windows 10 Technical Preview

The Ford Mustang, Apple’s iPhone and pretty much any Harley Davidson bike are a few products whose design is debated and aggressively deliberated among fans. Even the slightest design or spec change can send fans running for social media to discuss and debate. It’s dangerous business messing with a classic.

When you tell people your favorite Mustang is the ’65 Fastback, you’re drawing a line in the sand between the classic and the new. You stand for something and can defend your position. In fact, you probably search for opportunities to defend your choice.