Discussing … computers

I received an “Ask Simple Scrapper” question that I thought would be perfect to put out to my readers! What kind of computer (and accessories) do you need for digital scrapbooking?

There are technical and personal answers to this question. I’m eager to hear what all of you have to say on both fronts. But first, here’s my two cents:

1. Memory, memory, memory – Buy as much RAM as you can afford. This is the part of your computer that makes it run smooth when you’re trying to multitask. Digital scrapbooking often involves using several memory-hogging programs at once.

2. Storage – You’ll need a place to keep high-resolution copies of your photos and layouts, not to mention all those kits! Choose an internal harddrive of at least 100GB and supplement with EHDs as needed.

3. Display – Consider whether you’re comfortable scrapping on a smaller laptop display or need a full-size monitor. For the best of both worlds, invest in a notebook docking station with external display.

For full disclosure, I have a 13″ Macbook with 4GB of RAM (only came with 1GB). Whether PC or Mac, however, these (above) are the biggest considerations I have when purchasing a new machine. What are yours? What would you recommend to someone in the market for a new computer?

*As an aside, I’ll add a #4 recommendation. Do not attempt to simulate the included photo. Simple Scrapper does not recommend drinking any beverages near a laptop!