Windows Vista works based on the capabilities of the hardware installed. Windows Vista Capable PCs and Windows Vista Premium Ready PCs both are geared for running Windows Vista but the experience varies with the "premium" delivering more advanced user experience.

Even if you are just considering installing Windows Vista in the far or near future when buying a new laptop or PC you must check the hardware configuration so that the computer is in actuality capable of running Windows Vista in all its glory.

According to Microsoft:

* A Windows Capable PC must have: o An 800MZ modern processor.

o System memory of 512 MZ.

o A graphics card that is DirectX 9 capable.

* A Premium Ready PC must have: o 1 GHz with a x86 or x64 bits.

o 1GB memory card.

o 128 MB graphics memory which supports DirectX 9 graphics.

o 40GB hard drive with 15 GB free space.

o DVD rom drive.

o Audio output.

o Internet access capability.

o TV tuner card specific for Windows Vista. o A TPM 1.2 chip or USB 2.0 key.

o Electromagnetic digitizer pen.

To completely experience Windows Vista features a computer must be state of art and have at least a 40GB harddrive and 15GB of free space. Most Pcs in use today have neither the memory or graphic processors that will run Windows Vista without a major overhaul. And according to Robert McLaws a Windows Vista tester, "Windows Aero is a great eye candy feature, but most families should not drop what they've got and get a fast new machine for it,"

Before you rush and spend money on upgrades you must consider what is important to you. In Vista useable features are enhanced security and easy of use. Features like Windows Aero are "wow" but do not add to everyday use unless you area computer connoisseur.

Tips:

* Don't invest in PCs or laptops with integrated graphics cards. These use up a considerable amount of a PCs memory.

* Desktops can be upgraded while notebooks cannot.

* If your use of a computer is for gaming, editing or watching movies, or CAD then you must invest in a high powered graphics card as ell as additional memory.

* Notebook owners must aim for a 2GB Ram and discrete graphics chip.

Microsoft is dedicated to preparing the world of PC users for Windows Vista and to this end they have set up a "Get Ready Site" at Windowsvista.com which provided in depth information to users about the OS. They also have an application for download on Windows XP PCs that will informer the owner what is required to become "Vista" ready.

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About the Author

Aaron Brooks is a freelance writer for Free Software Downloads , the premier website to find Free Software Downloads including free anti-virus software, free spyware detection software, free toolbars, free chat software and more. He also freelances for the premier Free Online Games site.