A question a lot of people are asking is how ready are most PCs out there for the introduction of Windows Vista, albeit running later and later?

BetaNews comments that, “Microsoft has not yet rolled out its ‘Windows Vista Capable’ program, or provided any solid hardware recommendations.” Meanwhile, Gartner, the industry analyst, has stepped in to provide some information to businesses. It basically says that vigilance is necessary “in order to avoid future migration costs.”

Gartner is recommending that, at a minimum, computers should use the Intel 945G chipset, a Pentium 4 processor and 1GB of RAM, with up to 2GB of memory needed for added performance. Similarly, notebook buyers should look for a Core Duo processor based on the 945GM chipset with 1GB of RAM.

“The firm said it would not provide guidance for AMD yet as enterprise adoption of the company’s chips have been rather slow. Also, Gartner told businesses to focus on the above requirements rather than the graphics side, as most would not see a benefit from the Aero UI.”