If you already have a system, check the previous section, Minimum Recommended Configurations for Cornell Personal Computing Systems . Spend as much as you can comfortably afford. The more you invest, the longer your system will remain viable.
Technology continues to evolve at a rapid rate.
Newer technology is always right around the corner, but this should not deter you from buying the system you need now. Unless you have specific needs, you don't need to acquire the absolutely highest level of current technology. On the other hand, saving a few dollars by buying low on the technology curve is a false economy. Technical specifications are not the whole story. Make sure that you are investing in decent quality components and construction, and that you'll be able to get service for your system from the manufacturer or vendor should the need arise.