Are you due for an upgrade? What needs replacing.
By bayernfan
@bayernfan (1430)
Canada
March 31, 2009 6:41pm CST
Is it time for you to upgrade your PC again? Maybe only a specific component needs replacing or perhaps you need a complete overhaul? Are you just going to add some accessories in order to increase the performance out of your current setup, such as RAMsinks, heatsink & fan assembly, a more powerful fan, a monitor, keyboard, or mouse? When was the last time you upgraded?
I actually don't need to change much, but I'm looking to add some storage capacity. Perhaps a 1TB SATA hard drive manufactured by Seagate. Do you stick to any particular brands?
3 responses
@migsmartinez (1293)
• Philippines
1 Apr 09
Hey there! My PC got wrecked a long time ago and I'm stuck with my laptop. I think I need to buy a new one soon. I'm going to try to build my own PC since it's cheaper that way. I'm going to try to build a really strong computer so I can program easier and so that I could try out some newer games.
@bayernfan (1430)
• Canada
1 Apr 09
Are you planning on using a dual core or quad core CPU? Intel or AMD? If you are going to game, get at least 2GB of RAM and a decent video card. Get a GeForce 9800GT/ATi Radeon 387[u][/u]0 or better graphics card. I would also suggest getting a sound card instead of relying on an onboard solution. Onboard soundcards draw system resources by requiring CPU and RAM to operate. Good luck.
@migsmartinez (1293)
• Philippines
2 Apr 09
Definitely quad core. I think I'm going to go with Intel. I think 2GB RAM is just right but I could go with more. I'm gonna spend a little more for a video card so I can get a decent one.
@bayernfan (1430)
• Canada
2 Apr 09
You can't go wrong with Intel quad core. Their are some 4GB RAM kits going for reasonable prices right now. If you are interested in gaming, it is advisable to spent a little more on a graphics card. Cheers.
@modstar (9605)
• Philippines
1 Apr 09
I think i need to replace my cpu because it's really old. My system is a Pentium 4 1.7 Ghz, 512mb RAM, 256 nVidia GeForce FX 5500. I need to change motherboard which means i need to change most parts. But since i don't have enough budget yet, my old system will do. I'm not really much a gamer so i don't urgently need a high end graphic card.
@bayernfan (1430)
• Canada
1 Apr 09
Yes, your system is many cycles behind. It will probably be easier, and less expensive, to do a new build. Unless you have access to older parts, most stores won't carry them, and if they do, they will charge more than it costs for the newer models. If you replace the motherboard, you will need to change the CPU, RAM, videocard and PSU. Newer parts draw more power so a minimum 500W PSU is recommended. Plus new boards use a 24-pin connector instead of the older 20-pin models. I don't recommend using the 20-pin to 24-pin adapter cable unless your older PSU is high quality with at least a 435W rating. New motherboards use PCI-e slots for video cards instead of the older AGP slots so, even if you aren't a gamer, the graphics card will need to be replaced. Most new boards use DDR3 but you can still find boards that are outfitted with DDR2 dimms. Do online searches to help inform yourself about what components are available and don't be afraid to ask questions. MyLot can be a helpful place. Cheers.
@baconbits52 (81)
• United States
1 Apr 09
Well since your talking about hard drives I will stick on that.
If your a gamer I HIGHLY suggest you go with a "Western Digital: Velciraptor"
If you want storage go with a "Western Digital" or "Seagate" 1 TB or higher drive. I would honestly compare prices of the different drives to see what is more cost effective and suits your needs. That pretty much goes with all computer part shopping.
@bayernfan (1430)
• Canada
1 Apr 09
I have already been using the 10000 rpm Western Digital Raptor hard drive for years. The velociraptor just has slightly larger storage space and is SATA II (marketing gimmick). I am well versed in the capabilities of the most current parts and I check pricing regularly. Your advice is valid. The best approach is to know what you need and be informed about what components are available. Cheers.
