 Many traders call and say they are confused about what kind of trading computer they should buy. Should they go to Best Buy or Circuit City and buy an off-the-shelf computer or should they go on the Internet and buy one from Dell? Let me try to answer that.
Sorry, we feel that these retail outlets do not provide you, the trader, with the necessary computer you need to be successful. Here are seven reasons why these computers will not work for you, the trader.
First, the memory used in most of these computers is just component memory. Using this type of memory in a multiple-monitor computer will result in constant lock-ups. The screen will freeze every once in a while. You will then have to reboot your computer. Eventually, this will cause software glitches and make the situation even worse.
Second, as a trader, you will need multiple monitors to trade successfully. You can’t trade with just one screen. You need to see many charts, data screens, news sites, chat rooms, and so forth. The computer needs to output to DVI monitors and not analog. Why? The reason is that DVI output is significantly better for your eyes. Because you will be viewing the monitors at least 8 hours per day, you need the best viewing possible. Most retail computers only support one monitor, and, usually, it only has an analog output.
Third, most of these computers are too noisy. They have loud hard disk drives, CPU fans, case fans and video adapters. You need a quiet machine, so you can concentrate to trade successfully.
Fourth, these computers run too hot. The main reason for this is that their cases are poorly designed with ineffective air flow and low quality, noisy fans. Generally, within 6 - 8 months, most retail computers, under the stress of trading 8 hours per day, will end up with a failed hard disk drive or motherboard.
Fifth, these computers do not offer redundancy. If a video card or hard drive fails, the computer is worthless until a new replacement part comes.
Six, most of these computers are underpowered. They should have a dual-core CPU powerful enough to run at least 4 - 6 programs at one time.
Seventh, these computers don’t supply the support necessary for trading. You need access to both software and hardware technical support with on-site service. No trader wants to talk to a technician in another country after waiting on the phone for two hours. No trader wants to take his computer into Best Buy and wait two weeks for repair.
Look for my article in the May issue of the Exchange, which will address the biggest change in trading computers in the last 10 years and why you need it.
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