Setting Up Your First IT System

7. Setting Up a Budget

7.1 Expect to spend between £750 and £1,500 plus VAT for a desktop computer.

• For around £500 plus VAT you should be able to buy a machine sufficient for basic office applications such as word processing, simple accounts, sending email and surfing the Internet.
• For £800 plus VAT, a system will be more powerful as well as having more extensive sound, graphics and storage capabilities. For example, this could be used for web and print design, or for stock-control systems that juggle large amounts of data.
• For £1,000 plus VAT, you should get high-speed processors with lots of memory and advanced graphics capability. High-end machines are only necessary for businesses that depend upon processing speed, eg printing or music production.

7.2 Dedicated servers cost from £1,000.

• If your server use is light, a standard desktop PC could be used as a server.
• For workgroups above six people, a dedicated server is desirable.

7.3 Additional costs to consider include:

• Software.
• Running and maintenance, and any warranties. This may significantly add to the initial costs. Check what level of support you will get and if there are hidden charges.
• Training, for you and your staff.