Custom Computer FAQ's

Q. What kind of Custom Computers does ITCS provide?

A. We provide custom/built to order Desktops, Servers and Notebooks.  Typically we specify motherboards from either ASUS or Intel.  We prefer to use Intel processors.  Hard drives typically are from Seagate & Western Digital and RAM from Kingston, Crucial and Edge.  There are many other components, but these are the critical ones.

Q. Why are custom built computers preferred over name brand/off the shelf computers.

A. Custom build PC’s are built with standard/Non proprietary parts which means if a part fails in the future, replacement parts can be procured at just about any computer shop.  Of course as your technology partner, we’ll take care of this for you.  No need to call “off shore” technical support, re-hash the problem and be forced to buy a very expensive replacement part because it is the only one that will work for your name brand computer.

Q. Custom Desktops and Servers have been around for a long time, but can you really build custom Notebooks? 

A. Yes we can.  Intel launched an initative about 1 year ago called “VBI” (Verified By Intel).  This program provides VAR’s  (value added resellers) like us with a broad selection of common building components for notebook computers.  If a part needs to be replaced, it can usually be found locally in stock, unlike other notebooks whitch requires going back to the manufacturer.

Q.  What kind of warranty comes with Custom systems from ITCS. 

A. All of our systems come with at least 1 year limited warranty on parts.  Our desktops and servers are backed directly by our vendor and notebooks are backed by Intel via the VBI program.

Q. What is a Server?

A. A server is similar in appearance to a desktop computer.  But the similarities stop there.  By definition a “Server” has a server operating system installed, like Windows Small Business Server, rather than a desktop operating system like XP pro or Vista.  A server is intended to house mission critical applications.  Furthermore, a server is typically built to run continuously without failing by use of redundant hardware.  At a minimum servers typically have “mirrored" or "RAID" hard drives.  This means if one drive fails, the other will keep the system going so your users can continue to be productive.  Typically, a company has it’s users store their data files on the server and thus the server is backed up nightly to some type of external media or online backup service.

Q. I can’t afford a server, what options do I have?

A. Many small businesses find themselves in this situation.  One option that may work for you is what we call a “Peer to Peer” server as opposed to the “Client Server” server described above.  By going with this option you forgo many of the features that come with server operating systems.  A Peer to Peer server is a desktop computer with XP Pro or similar desktop operating system.  We highly recommend having mirrored drives and a backup solution.  This server solution is a less expensive option for companies with less than 8 computers and don’t plan to grow.  We can help you determine if this is a good option for you.

 Q. What is the difference between a Laptop and a Notebook?

A. Nothing

Q. What is a Tablet PC?

A. A Tablet PC is a notebook with extra bonus features.  The screen which typically is hinged also has the ability to rotate and lay back down on the keyboard.  Tablets are fitted with hand writing recognition software and a touch screen.  So you simply use a stylus and write on the screen like you would a tablet of paper.

Q. Does ITCS really build the Systems?

A. No, we work closely with our vendors, who are tier one wholesalers with a branches in the Tampa area.  We custom configure each computer order and our vendors build and ship them for us.

Q. Can I buy right from the same Vendors?

A.  Sorry, you have to be a Value Added Reseller.

Q. What is the downside to buying a cheap $299 computer off the shelf?

A. See the following. $299.00 PC