• Intel i3 and AMD Ryzen 3 processors should only be chosen for simple devices such as Android tablets.
• Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors should be chosen by default for general use. 8GB RAM is a minimum; users of SIL FieldWorks need at least 16GB. You should always order an SSD for a new workstation. There is no need for a separate graphics card.
• Intel i7 or i9 processors or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 should only be bought for more resource-intensive tasks, such as video editing.
• These more powerful CPUs usually use the fans more extensively to cool down, which can shorten their lifespan in a hot environment.

Computer for most SIL staff (running everyday office applications):

• Laptop: Dell Latitude, HP Probook, Lenovo ThinkPad or similar (business grade is recommended over home/consumer grade)
• Screen size: minimum 14", although 13" may be preferred for users who travel a lot and have good eyes
• Processor: i5 or higher
• Memory: 8GB or more
• Hard drive: 256GB SSD or more

Computer for language worker (needing to run language software):

• Laptop: Dell as a standard for local translators. (Dell Vostro 3500; 15 inch and Full HD (1920x1080) recommended for translation screen real estate)
• Processor: 11th Generation Intel® Core™ i5
• Video Card: Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics with shared graphics memory
• Memory: 16GB or more (especially if using Flex)
• Hard Drive: 256GB SSD or more (if working with video, consider more storage or an external hard drive)

Note - Should have camera and microphone if needing remote training and consultation. 

Setting up a new computer requires some basic choices.

Does the user need a laptop or a desktop? The first advice would be to ask the user or his/her supervisor, unless you have an entity policy to follow.

Using a desktop might be less expensive. But a laptop will guarantee good mobility to the users, should they need to travel in the country or internationally, or simply be able to work from home. But for a better user experience a laptop user will benefit from having a docking station to access all their external devices when plugging in the laptop, including one or more external screens.