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Feasibility Report of Laptop Computer Purchase

for Mark Stanaszek


_______________________________________________________________________
_

Created by: Lindsey Hines


Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009

To Mark Stanaszek, Capella University

From Lindsey A. Hines, University of Minnesota

Date April 21, 2009

Re FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR LAPTOP COMPUTER PURCHASE

I am pleased to submit the attached feasibility report for your recommended


laptop computer purchase.

After careful investigation it is found that the HP Pavilion dv4t is the best laptop
computer for you. You expressed the need for a reliable and attractive computer
and this model will not let you down. It is found to be reliable as reviewed by
many current users. It also exhibits an incredibly sleek and attractive design.
This model was found to be the least expensive computer of the three computers
investigated pricing at just $642.

I believe your next step should be to take a look at this computer for yourself.
They have this model available to view at Best Buy locations, take some time to
thoroughly familiarize yourself with this model. Try out the functional accessories
such as the keyboard and mouse. If you decide you like the look and feel you
should purchase this computer. You can do this by calling Danielle at Hewlett
Packard at 1-877-999-4747 ext. 48913. She will have your name in the
computer with the specific model discussed in this feasibility report.

I would be delighted to answer any further questions you may have. Please feel
free to contact me anytime.

Encl: Feasibility Report (1 copy)

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009

Table of Contents

Figures and Tables..........................................................................3


Executive Summary.........................................................................6
Introduction.....................................................................................7
Problem Statement..........................................................................8
Scope of this Report........................................................................8
Background Methodology................................................................8
Computer Terms.............................................................................8
Findings............................................................................................9
Conclusions....................................................................................11
Recommendations.........................................................................11
Appendix A:....................................................................................12
A.Interview Questions for Dell Sales Representative Kyle Johnston............................12
B. Interview Questions for HP Sales Representative Danielle Thompson....................14
C. Interview Questions for Apple Sales Representative Dan Bergman.........................15
D. Interview with Mark Stanaszek.................................................................................17
Works Cited....................................................................................18

Figures and Tables

Dell Inspiron 15 HP Pavilion dv4t MacBook 13

Table 1: Computer functions and accessories

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
Computer Dell Inspiron 15 HP Pavilion dv4t MacBook 13 inch
Screen 15.6” 14.1” 13.3”
Price $842.00 $657.00 $949.00
Weight 6.0 lbs. 5.63 lbs. 5.0 lbs.
Dimensions 1.2” x 14.05” x 1.34” x 13.15” x 1.08” x 12.78” x
10.08” 9.45” 8.92”
Processor 2.0GHz Intel Core 2.4GHz Intel Core 2.0GHz Intel Core
2 Duo 2 Duo 2 Duo
Memory 2GB 3GB 2GB
Hard Drive 250GB 320GB 120GB*
DVD Burner Yes Yes Yes
Battery Life 4 hours* 3 hours* 4.5 hours*
Wireless Card Yes Yes Yes
Input and Output Yes Yes Yes
Ports
Web camera and Yes Yes Yes
microphone
Virus protection 3 years 15 months Not needed
Warranty 1 year* 1 year* 1 year*
Microsoft software Yes No* No
Color Red, Blue, Black Black, White White
*upgrade for a fee

Table 2: Website Editor Reviews


Computer Dell Inspiron 15 HP Pavilion dv4t MacBook 13 inch
Pros • Slim design • Good • Combines
(CNet, PC). performance performance
(NR). and portability
• Light weight like never
(PC). • Great price before (CNet).
(PC).
• Appealing
• Affordable design (DG).

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
(PC). • Good design
and body
quality (DG). • Incredibly fast
processor
(PC).

Cons • Cheap plastic • Short battery • Small screen


feel (CNet). life- 2.25 hours size for
(PC). similarly priced
• Short battery notebooks
life-2.75 hours • High running (CNet).
(CNet). temperature
(DG). • Small hard
drive for
• Design and similarly priced
shape notebooks
disappointing (CNet).
(PC).

• Battery life less


than expected-
2.5 hours
(CNet).

Table 3: Reviews from Users of Computer


Computer Dell Insprion 15 HP Pavilion dv4t MacBook 13 inch
Pros • This computer • I really enjoy • The best
is well built this computer laptop I have
(CNet). (NB). ever used
(CNet).
• It gets the job • This laptop is
done (CNet). outstanding • A great size
(CNet). and a really
great design

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
• Good design • A great (Cnet).
(NB). computer for
its price (NB). • I have used
both Macs and
PCs…. I’ll pick
• This computer this Mac any
has worked day (PC).
perfectly
(CNet). • Stylish
notebook (NB).
Cons • I do not • I am • Purchased
recommend disappointed computer and
this computer with my it has given me
(PC). purchase (NB). nothing but
problems (PC).
• Very • The speakers
disappointing, I are not • Integrated
have had anything to graphics are
many boast about bad (NB).
problems with (NB).
this laptop
(CNet).

• I have had
severe
hardware
problems
(CNet).

• Cheap
memory (NB).

• Bad speakers
(NB).

Executive Summary
It is recommended that Mark Stanaszek purchase the HP Pavilion dv4t laptop
computer. He is currently using an out of date desktop computer for his
academics at Capella University. This computer is unreliable and keeps him
restricted to his apartment for accomplishing his assignments.

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
He would like to purchase an attractive and reliable laptop computer for under
$1000. Three laptop computers were chosen from top computer companies, the
investigated computers in this report are:
1. HP Pavilion dv4t
2. Dell Inspiron 15
3. The MacBook 13

The HP Pavilion dv4t is recommended because it is the most reliable and


attractive computer at a low price. The Dell Inspiron 15 did not meet the specific
criteria. The MacBook 13 was reliable and attractive but its price was high in
comparison to the HP Pavilion dv4t.

Introduction
Currently Mark Stanaszek relies on his out of date desktop computer to fulfill his
academics at Capella University. He would like to replace his computer with a
new laptop. This would allow him the freedom and reliability that he desires from
a computer.

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009

Problem Statement

Capella University is an online school in which all classes are conducted via the
internet. Marks academic achievement relies heavily on the reliability of his
computer, any type of problem could lead to serious consequences. He wants an
attractive and dependable top of the line laptop computer to get him through his
final three years of college. Like most college students Mark is on a budget and
can afford to spend $1,000 or less on a computer. Unfortunately, Mark has very
little knowledge about computers and limited time to look for one. These
restraints make it nearly impossible for Mark to find a computer that is best for
him.

Scope of this Report

This report is important because it determines the best laptop computer by


investigating many different options. To decide which computer is best for Mark,
three computers were thoroughly researched. Each computer is highly
recommended by sales representatives from each of the computer companies
they include; the Dell Inspiron 15, the HP Pavilion dv4t and the MacBook 13 inch
system. This report includes the features of each selected model and the reviews
of each selected model. The information is analyzed in this report and the top
computer is chosen for Mark Stanaszek.

Background Methodology
Three of the nations top computer companies were chosen for considering a
laptop computer. The three companies were Dell, Hewlett Packard, and Apple.
Choosing three different companies allowed for a broad spectrum of computer
options. Each company sales representative was allowed to choose what they
felt would be the best laptop computer for an online college student. This worked
best because the sales representatives are more knowledgeable than a
consumer. Questions were then asked to each sales representative. Editor
reviews from reputable websites were also used in the evaluation of each
computer. Reviews from actual buyers were also found on these websites and
used in the evaluation. These websites allow for subjective opinions by editor
reviewers and actual buyers which allowed for an array of opinions.

Computer Terms

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
Intel Core 2 Duo Processor: This processor allows someone to do more at the
same time, like playing music, running virus scan in the background, all while
editing pictures. This processor provides you with the speed you need to
perform any and all tasks (Intel).

Memory: The amount of storage that exists in a computer to temporarily hold


data. Before a program can run it must be loaded into the memory which allows
the program to be opened (Web).

Hard Drive: A storage device for all files and programs on a computer (Web).

GHz: Gigahertz. 1 GHz represents 1 billion cycles per second. This


measurement is used for processor speeds (Web).

GB: Gigabyte. This measurement is used to indicate memory in computer


systems. One Gigabyte is 2 to 30th power bytes (Web).

Byte: A storage unit capable of holding a single character. A computer byte is


equal to 8 bits (Web).

Findings
There are many distinct differences between the three computers evaluated in
Table 1. The most obvious to any observer would be the difference in screen
size. The Inspiron 15 has a screen size of 15.6”, next the Pavilion dv4t has a
14.1” screen, and lastly the Macbook 13 having the smallest screen at 13.3”.
The weights of each of these computers follow the same trend with the Inspiron
15 weighing heaviest at 6 pounds to the smallest Macbook 13 weighing just 5
pounds.

The three computers have the same Intel Core 2 Duo processor. The Inspiron 15
and the MacBook 13 processor is 2.0GHz, while the Pavilion dv4t has a slightly
larger processor size of 2.4GHz. The Inspiron 15 and the MacBook 13 also have
the same 2GB memory, the Pavilion dv4t has a 3GB memory. It is important to
note Dan the Apple sales representative said “a Mac 2GB would work faster than
any competitors 3GB” (Appendix A). After further investigation it was found that a
Mac’s speed is faster than a PC’s when they are equipped with nearly identical
parts including memory and processor (Mac/PC). Each of the computers has a
different size hard drive; the Inspiron 15 has a 250 GB, the Pavilion dv4t has a
320 GB, and the MacBook 13 has a 120GB. The battery life of the three
computers quoted by each of their sales representatives were 4 hours for the
Inspiron 15, 3 hours for the Pavilion dv4t, and 4.5 hours for the MacBook 13
(Appendix A).

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
Each computer is equipped with a wireless card, input and output ports, a DVD
burner and web cam with a built in microphone. These computers also come
with a l year warranty which can be extended for an additional fee. Inspiron 15
comes with 3 free years of virus protection upon purchase. The Pavilion dv4t
comes with 15 months free virus protection. The MacBook 13 does not need
virus protection. Dan from Apple explained that “Mac’s do not get viruses”
(Appendix A). The Inspiron 15 includes installed Microsoft software. Neither the
Pavilion dv4t nor the MacBook 13 includes this software although the Pavilion
dv4t can have the software installed for an additional fee. Dan from Apple
recommended “going on Amazon.com and purchasing a version for a cheaper
price” (Appendix A). The Inspiron 15 is available in three colors; blue, red, and
black. The Pavilion dv4t is available in two colors; black and white. The
MacBook 13 comes in white only.

The cost of each of these computers includes the functions and accessories
listed in Table 1. The price of the Inspiron 15 is $842. The price of the Pavilion
dv4t is $657. Lastly the price of the MacBook 13 is $949.

Editor reviews on reputable websites show trends with pros and cons of each of
the models (Table 2). The pros for the Inspiron 15 are its slim design, light
weight, and affordable price (CNet, PC). The cons for this computer include its
design and shape, cheap plastic feel, and short battery life of 2.75 hours (PC,
CNet). The Pavilion dv4t pros include its good performance and great price along
with its good design and body quality (NB, PC, DG). The cons of this computer
are its short battery life and high running temperature (PC, DG). The MacBook
13 pros include its performance and portability, appealing design and incredibly
fast processor (CNet, DG, PC). The cons of this laptop computer are its small
screen size and hard drive for similarly priced laptop computers, as well as its
less than expected battery life (CNet).

Reviews from actual buyers were also available on these websites (Table 3). The
Inspiron 15 had some positive reviews including one saying the computer was
“well built” (CNet). This laptop computer also had many negative reviews
including; “I do not recommend this computer”, “very disappointing” and “I have
had severe hardware problems” (PC, CNet). The Pavilion dv4t had many
positive reviews including; “I really enjoy this computer”, “this laptop is
outstanding” and “a great computer for the price” (NB, CNet). One reviewer of
this laptop computer said, “I am disappointed with my purchase” (NB). The
MacBook 13 had many reviews online as well. Some reviews that were positive
stated; “the best laptop I have ever used”, “a great size and a really great design”
and “I have used both Mac’s and PC’s, I’ll pick this Mac any day” (CNet, PC).
Some negative reviews said “I have had nothing but problems with this
computer”; another said “the integrated graphics are bad” (PC, NB).

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Conclusions
Reliability, attractiveness and price are the most important criterion to Mark, and
will be used to draw conclusions for the best computer in this report. Each of
these criteria can be assessed by looking at the findings.

It is hard to determine the reliability of a computer in general because the views


can be very subjective. Each of the computer companies said that their
computer was very reliable (Appendix A). The editor reviews did not comment on
reliability because they only review the computer, they do not use the computer
on a day to day basis. Due to this the best insight into reliability of a computer is
to look at current user reviews (Table 3). This information shows that buyers had
mixed reviews on each of the laptop computers. It is important to note that the
Inspiron 15 had more user complaints on these websites than the other two
laptop computers. The most notable complaints are the ones about technical
difficulties. The Pavilion dv4t and the MacBook 13 had far more positive reviews
than negative. It is to difficult to draw definite conclusions based on this data
because it is very subjective. It should be noted when considering these reviews
that the reviews were taken off reputable websites in an attempt to get the least
biased opinion of one computer over another. With that being said one must
keep in mind that not everyone comments to a website about their good or bad
experience with a computer. Therefore much of the reliability of this computer
will be discovered by oneself after their computer purchase. It is important to
remember that all three of these computers come with warranties which will be
important for ensuring the reliability of each computer should it malfunction. In
Marks case he may consider renewing his warranty when it expires.

Attractiveness can be assessed by the editor review (Table 2). The Inspiron 15 is
given poor reviews for its attractiveness. This model is said to have “cheap
plastic” and “a disappointing design and shape” (CNet, PC). Both the Pavilion
dv4t and the MacBook 13 got rave reviews on their attractive designs.

The prices of these three laptop computers vary but are all under the required
$1,000. The Inspiron 15 is priced at $842, the Pavilion dv4t is $657 and the
MacBook 13 is $949.

Recommendations
Based on these three criteria the HP Pavilion dv4t appears to be the best choice
for Mark Stanaszek. This laptop computer excels at meeting each of Marks
criteria. The Dell Inspiron 15 does not compare because it lacks both reliability by
many current users and attractiveness. The MacBook 13 measures up with the
Pavilion dv4t in reliability and attractiveness but it can not beat its incredibly low
price. By purchasing this model instead of the MacBook 13 Mark will save $292.

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
The Pavilion dv4t will also get him more for his dollar. It has a larger screen and
double the hard drive size of the MacBook 13. It also has a larger processor and
memory, although this does not necessarily mean it will run faster (Mac/Pc). He
will also have the option of a black or white computer depending on his
preference.

This specific model is registered under Mark Stanaszek at Hewlett Packard. I


recommend that Mark Stanaszek call Hewlett Packard and purchase the Pavilion
dv4t.

Appendix A:
A. Interview Questions for Dell Sales Representative Kyle
Johnston

1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online


university student for under $1,000, what do you recommend?

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009

Kyle (K): “Will the student being using it for anything else?”
Interviewer (I): “It will be used predominately for school.”

K: “We specifically customize our computers to fit your needs.


“I am going to recommend the Inspiron 15 and will add an upgraded hard
drive to make this computer optimal for a college student. This computer just
came out; it is the most popular with the newest parts.”
I: “That sounds great.”

2. What will the total price be for this computer?


“This computer is priced at $842.00 and will have everything that a college
student needs.”

3. What are the special features that come with this computer?
“This computer comes with a 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a 250GB
hard drive, a wireless card to get Wi-Fi, 2GB memory, a DVD burner, a
webcam with a microphone and Microsoft software. All of these will be
important for a college student.”

4. What is an Intel Core 2 Duo processor? Why is it important?


“This processor is like having a 2 in 1 brain. It allows you to run different
programs at the same time without your computer slowing down on you.”

5. What does the Microsoft software come with?


“This software comes with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and
Outlook email.”

6. What does this computer look like?


“It has a nice size screen which is 13.6”. It weighs about six pounds and
comes in a few different color options.

7. What are the color options?


“This model comes in three colors blue, red and black. This is nice because
you can personalize your computer a little bit! It seems like most people only
have black or white computers.”

8. Does this computer come with virus protection valid for?


“Yes, and it is covered for the first three years free of charge. After this you
have the option of buying it.”

9. Does this computer come with any type of warranty do you offer?
“There is a 1 year warranty that covers: technical support by phone or online
and in home service technical support which includes free parts and labor.

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
You can extend the warranty for a fee when it has expired or for a cheaper
rate if you extend it when you buy the computer.”

10. How long is the battery life on this computer?


“This particular model has a four hour battery life.”

11. Can this computer be viewed online?


“Yes, go to our website…Dell.com. Go to the search at the top of the screen
and type in Inspiron 15, you can view it in all three color options.”

12. What are some problems that an operator might have when using
this computer?
“A user should be problem free. If there is a problem there is in home
technical support as well as support by phone or online.”

13. Do you believe this computer will be reliable for a college student?
“Yes, most definitely.”

14. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions?


“Yes, absolutely”

B. Interview Questions for HP Sales Representative Danielle


Thompson

1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online


University student for under $1,000, what do you recommend?
“I would recommend the HP dv4t. It is very popular among college students.
We also offer a college discount on the computers along with any of our
products.”

2. What are the features of this computer?


“It comes with a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a 3GB memory, 320 GB
hard drive, DVD burner, many ports and a webcam with microphone.

3. How big is this computer?


“It weighs 5.63 pounds and has a 14.1 inch screen. It is a great size at a
really great size for its price.”

4. What is the price?


“The price of this model after the student discount is $657.00. This is a great
price.”

5. Does your computer come with wireless capabilities?

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
“Oh yes, it comes with a wireless card. All of our computers come standard
with this.”

6. Does this computer come with virus protection?


“Yes… It is cover for the first fifteen months. After this you can subscribe to
continue service.”

7. Do you have a warranty? What kind of warranty do you offer?


“There is a 1 year warranty on all of our computers. You have the option to
extend this warranty for a fee when the warranty has expires or you can pay
extra now for an extended warranty.”

8. What colors does this computer come in?


“It is offered in both black and white.”

9. Does this computer come with Microsoft software?


“You can purchase it for $99.00.”

10. Can this computer be viewed online?


“Yes, you can go to our website.”

11. What are some problems that an operator might have when using
this computer?
“A user should have no problems with our computers”.

12. Do you believe this is a reliable computer for a college student?


“Absolutely, this is our top seller for college students”

13. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions?


“Yes, please do.”

C. Interview Questions for Apple Sales Representative Dan


Bergman

1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online


university student for under $1,000, what do you recommend?
“The MacBook 13- inch system would work best for this price range it runs at
$949.00. My daughter uses this MacBook for school.”

2. What are the features of this computer? (Each feature was inquired
about if not directly informed)

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
“This computer comes with many features a 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
processor, 120 GB hard drive, 2GB memory, wireless card, webcam with
microphone attached, a DVD burner and many ports for connecting an iPod
and such.”

3. Does this computer come with virus protection?


“Macs do not get viruses. Because of this our computers do not slow down. I
guarantee our 2GB processor will work faster than any competitors 3GB.”

4. What kind of warranty do you offer?


“There is a 1 year warranty on hardware and components. You also get a
warranty for 90 day for over the phone questions”

5. What is the weight and screen size of this computer?


“This is a very nice small computer, perfect for a college student to fit in their
backpack. It has a 13.3 inch screen and weighs only 5 pounds.”

6. What colors does this computer come in?


“It comes in white.”

7. Does this computer come with Microsoft Word?


“No, but I would recommend going to Amazon and getting it for cheap.”

8. This computer has a smaller hard drive than the other computers I
have looked at, will a student have to be worried about filling up the
hard drive?
“It would take a lot to fill up this hard drive especially if the main use of this
computer is for school work. If you would run in to this problem which would
not likely happen for many years you can change out your hard drive for a
bigger size.”

9. Can this computer be viewed online?


“Yes, on our website.”

10. What is the battery life on this computer?


“It has a long battery life of up to 4.5 hours.”

11. What are some problems that an operator might have when using
this computer?
“A user will seldom have problems with any apples. Each component put
into this system is specifically for that computer. We also use high dollar
components unlike any of our competitors this is why our computers are more
expensive. They are much better quality. You can not compare a Mac to a
PC.”

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
12. Do you think this college student will be able to rely on this
computer for his needs?
“Of course, my daughters works wonderfully.”

13. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions?


“Yes”

D. Interview with Mark Stanaszek

1. What exactly are you looking for in a new laptop computer?


“I am looking for something that is reliable. My current computer is very old
and I feel like it could die on me any day, it takes forever to turn on and
sometimes shuts off on me. I really want a laptop so that I can go to coffee
shops or to the park and do my homework.”

2. Do you have any specific computer in mind?


“I really don’t, I have not really been looking all that much. I really just want
something that is going to get me through school without costing me a
fortune. I definitely can not afford anything over $1,000; I am on a serious
budget!”

3. Is there any feature in a computer that you want, like a specific


screen size, color, style?
“I do want something that doesn’t look cheap if it’s possible for my price
range. I don’t want to be embarrassed of my computer! I also don’t want a
really big or really small computer just something in between.”

4. Are you going to be using this computer for anything other than
school like gaming etc.?
“No basically just for school and to go on the internet. I am definitely not a
gamer.”

5. Is there anything else you can think of that may be of importance to


in a computer?
“ I don’t think so, I don’t really know a lot about computers so I just want to
make sure I get one that will be good for keeping all of my school information
and allows me to get on the internet…. That sort of stuff.”

6. OK, well if you think of anything else let me know.


“I will.”

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009

Works Cited

1. CNet.com. 05 Feb. 2008. CNet Reviews. 14 Apr. 2009 .


http://reviews.cnet.com/ (CNet)

2. PCMag.com. 03 Apr. 2009. Product Guides. 14 Apr. 2009.


http://www.pcmag.com/category2.asp. (PC)

3. Notebookreview.com. 07 Apr. 2009. Notebook and News Reviews 16 Apr.


2009. http://forum.notebookreview.com/forumdisplay. (NB)

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Lindsey Hines April 21, 2009
4. Digitgeek.com. 26 Oct. 2008. Hardware Reviews and Tutorial. 16 Apr.
2009. http://www.digitgeek.com/laptop-review. (DG)

5. Intel.com. 2 Dec. 2008. Intel Core 2 Duo Processor. 16 Apr. 2009.


http://www.intel.com/products/processor/core2duo/index.htm. (Intel)

6. Webopedia.com. 1 Jan. 2009. Terms. 16 April 2009.


http://www.webopedia.com. (Web)

7. Consumerreasearch.com. 2 Nov. 2008. Mac vs. PC.


http://www.consumersearch.com/mac-vs-pc. (Mac/PC)

8. Johnston, Kyle. Personal interview. 8 April 2009.

9. Thompson, Danielle. Personal interview. 8 April 2009.

10. Bergstrom, Dan. Personal interview. 8 April 2009.

11. Stanaszek, Mark. Personal interview 1 April 2009.

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