Buying a Computer? ACT! by Sage System Requirements
Posted by Len Kamerman on Mon, Aug 23, 2010 @ 08:18 AM
People wait in a lot of places. The bank, drive-thru windows, license offices - in front of your computer shouldn't be one of them. If you're an ACT! user, one of the best things you can do to ensure a positive experience is to make sure that your computer is up to snuff for running your contact management software.
To make sure you're not engaging in excessive thumb twiddling, read on and I'll break out the recommendations into specific computer components. This is handy information if either A) you think ACT! could be a little speedier and are considering upgrading or B) you're in the market for a new computer and want to make sure ACT! runs great on it.
RAM (Memory)
My opinion (and that of most other ACT! Certified Consultants) is that you should have at least 1GB of memory, regardless of which version of Windows you're on. If you often have a lot of programs open at once (Outlook, ACT!, Word, your web browser, etc.) you'll likely benefit from having even a little more than that. Most computers now come with at least 2GB, so if you're buying a new machine this is probably not going to be a concern.
Processor / CPU
If you're buying a new computer: just about anything out there will do it, but models with a dual-core processor will often perform better than those without for users who are multi-tasking with multiple applications open.
If you're looking at your existing, older computer: stay away from anything with Celeron in the name (they're dated, but also poorer performing) and make sure your processor is rated at least 1.6 Ghz.
Hard Drive
While this isn't a big factor for most computer applications, because ACT! is a database application it benefits significantly from having a faster hard drive. If you have the option, spring for a 7200 RPM drive over one that is 5400 RPM. This information is not always easy to find but well worth finding out. It will make your ACT! software run significantly faster when entering information and searching your customer database.
Microsoft Office and Windows
Keep in mind that ACT! works with Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, and 7. My personal preference for new computers as it's a recent version of Windows that performs better than its predecessor, Windows Vista. When choosing an edition, Professional is preferred.
For Microsoft Office, ACT! 2010 supports Office 2002 (to be dropped in ACT! 2011), 2003, and 2007. The new ACT! 2011 due out very soon offers Office 2010 support as well, but only when using it in 32-bit mode. This is very important, as most new computers pre-loaded with Office come with Office 2010.
Finally...
For additional information, including server recommendations, see the ACT! 2010 system requirements or work with an ACT! Certified Consultant to make sure you get what you'll be happy with.
Knowing what to look for when buying a computer to use with ACT! won't make the line at the checkout any shorter, but it will help you to be productive!
article credit mastermaq