How developer hardware works: standards, specs and setups
DevWorkstation Notes explains how developer hardware works, from processors, memory and storage to monitors, desk equipment and home networks. Every article is built from the public documentation of standards bodies, government programs and manufacturers, and cites its sources in the text.
Laptops and desktops
Machines for programming, AI and data science work.
- How much RAM a programming laptop needs for containers and VMsLearn how to determine the right RAM for a programming laptop used for containers and virtual machines, based on host OS requirements and workloads.
- x86 or Arm for software development: what changes for toolchainsHow the CPU architecture affects compilers, containers, and benchmarks when choosing a development laptop.
- Laptop, desktop or mini PC as a developer workstationCompare laptops, desktops, and mini PCs as developer workstations: portability, upgradeability, energy efficiency, and connectivity.
- Reading a laptop spec sheet: processor, memory, storage, portsUnderstand the processor, memory, storage, and port specifications on a laptop data sheet, and what each number means.
- Specs that matter for video editing laptops: GPU, display, portsHow to verify GPU compute capability, HDR display certification, and modern ports for video editing laptops.
- 2-in-1 laptops: charging, wireless and port standardsHow 2-in-1 laptops charge via USB Power Delivery, use USB4 and Bluetooth, and meet Windows 11 and ENERGY STAR requirements.
- Gaming laptops as development machines: GPU, display, powerHow to evaluate gaming laptops for development: GPU compute capability, DisplayPort support, and USB PD power with ENERGY STAR efficiency.
Local AI and GPUs
Memory, compute and the cost of running models yourself.
- How much GPU memory local LLMs needLocal LLM GPU memory needs depend on parameter count and precision; 2 GB per billion parameter rule at bfloat16 helps estimate, with quantization and context.
- CUDA compute capability explainedA guide to CUDA compute capability, how to find a GPU's version, and why it matters for CUDA, PyTorch, and machine learning.
- When renting a GPU beats buying oneHow to decide between renting and buying GPUs for local AI workloads, including compute capability, benchmarks, memory, and software.
PC parts
Processors, memory, storage, power and cooling.
- Cores, threads and clock speed for compile workloadsHow processor cores, threads, and clock speed affect compilation time, and what to check when choosing a build machine.
- DDR4, DDR5 and Memory ChannelsExplains DDR4 and DDR5 differences, memory channels, and how to check specs for a desktop build.
- NVMe, PCIe Lanes and SSD Speed ClassesHow NVMe, PCIe lanes, and SSD form factors determine speed, with guidance on checking specifications.
- Power supply efficiency ratings: 80 PLUS explainedLearn what 80 PLUS power supply certifications mean, the efficiency levels, and how to choose a PSU.
- Airflow and cooling basics for a quiet workstationA quiet workstation starts with efficient components, sensible case airflow, and operating system thermal policies. This reference explains the principles.
Desk setup
Monitors, input devices, chairs, cameras and audio.
- Monitor distance, height and angleA guide to positioning a computer monitor at the recommended distance, height, and angle for comfort and health.
- Keyboard ergonomics and layout choicesGuidance on neutral wrist posture, keyboard placement, split and compact designs, and adjustments for a comfortable workstation.
- Office chair adjustments that matterLearn which chair adjustments have the most impact on comfort and posture, and how to set them correctly for your body.
- Webcam resolution, frame rate and privacy basicsLearn how webcam resolution and frame rate are defined by USB standards, plus ergonomic placement and privacy tips from government agencies.
- Headset connections: analog, USB and BluetoothLearn how analog, USB and Bluetooth headsets connect to computers, their trade-offs in audio quality, latency, and compatibility.
Homelab and networking
Storage servers, backup power and the network around them.
- NAS and RAID basics: redundancy is not a backupUnderstand how NAS and RAID protect against disk failure, and why a separate 3-2-1 backup strategy is still essential.
- UPS sizing: VA, watts and runtimeLearn how to size an uninterruptible power supply for a home lab by understanding VA, watts, power factor, and runtime considerations.
- Ethernet speeds and cable categoriesLearn how IEEE 802.3 defines Ethernet speeds and TIA sets cabling standards for data centers, with guidance on checking hardware specifications.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 for a home officeExplains Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 features, security protocols, and how to choose a router for a home office.
- Securing a home router and lab networkLearn how to harden a home router, segment a lab network, and choose secure Wi-Fi hardware using standards-based guidance.