- Desktop
- Laptop
- Monitor Size - Screen Real Estate
Most new traders will opt for the Desktop computer, also known as the "Family" computer. In terms, it has all their stuff (Data Files, Family Photos, and etc.). The preference for a standalone trading computer is highly suggested, as kids and family can jack up a computer faster than no other. If you trade on the go a laptop is ideal, but with the limited monitor size it could be a setback.
How many monitors? That's a personal choice that you'll have to make, but don't make the mistake of thinking more is always better. Three - 24" monitors should be sufficient enough for the average trader. Keee your charts and screen information to a minimum, which willl keep your required screeen real estate to a minimum. Keep it Simple.
With regards, to a trading computer, in my opinion, the truth about CPU and RAM requirements for the average trader really comes down to this. Any new, off the self computer is adequate for trading. Currently out of the box systems will have ths following features.
- Operating System: Windows 7 (64-bit)
- Memory 4 GB of RAM (Expands to 8 GB of RAM)
- CPU Type Intel Core i3
- CPU Speed 2.53GHZ
- Warranty 1yr
Name brands are the best (Toshiba, Dell, HP, Lenovo and Apple), but there is an added price for name branding. Every 6 months there will be a bigger better system out there. Honestly, if you don't want to spend a lot on a trading computer, then don't. A plain vallina Dual Core will do just fine. Just don't go any lower than 2 GB Ram.
Streaming quotes and charting packages (Java based) just don't put a heavy burden on the CPU like, games (Standalone - download to the hard drive). Browers based programs usually employ Java to make there platform accessible across multiple Operating Systems (PC, APPLE, LINUX and etc.). These browers-based systems provide improved flexiblity, as they do not require a particular operating System thy just require a Java Virtual Machine or a standard compliant brower. Most trading firms are now taking advantage of 64-bit multicore technology. Some firms are lagging behind, but you can still run them on Window 7.
