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Community Newsletter: Q&A: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced?
- 4/27/07 2:22 PM
PC Replacement
by thellar - 4/13/07 6:07 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Hi Janet,
No computer ever needs to be replaced unless the hardware itself is failing. As long as your current hardware configuration gives you the performance that you need, replacing your computer isn't necessary. If you want a faster computer or one with better graphics etc. then you will need to upgrade to a newer machine.
I have been working with computers for years, and I would say that other than hardware issues, or not being able to run newer software, there aren't any warning signs that a computer needs to be replaced. If your computer won't start up and is flashing zillions of warning signs across your screen all you need to do is reformat your harddrive with a recovery disk. The reformat will wipe your harddrive completely and take the Operating System back to its factory condition. The computer should run as if it was brand new again.
All the best,
Taylor
If you have to ask...
by camerams - 4/13/07 6:14 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
If you have to ask the question, it's time for a new computer.
This is how I know it's time to replace my PC
by damonm - 4/13/07 6:16 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
The first warning signs for replacing your PC is when you open the box. The next time is when the warrenty runs out. In realty if you format the hard drive and reload the operating system at least once a year the machine keeps fairly clean and will run for a couple of years. After about 3 years you’ll be far enough behind technology it will be time to upgrade.
Janet H: Full Time Laptop
by madmonty - 4/13/07 6:20 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
I have a desktop and a laptop. I went laptop full time and it lasted for 3 months before I recognized the inadequacy (sp?)of not having both systems on line. Trial is the only way for you to answer that question, but PLEASE have a backup routine that you will stick faithfully to. A simple 2GB USB Memory stick should do for complete (full) back on; then just do sequential back ups from there on (the difference between the original complete back up and anything you've done since then). It's an automatic system once set up. But there are draw backs to both system. Having the portability though is a must -- almost as much as having a thumb.
Jim M (Madmonty)
decide
by casanovajoe - 4/13/07 6:21 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
you need to decide why you have a computer and does it fill your needs. you have then answered your own question. Casanova
Consider Needs vs. Outlook--Be No More than 3 years Behind
by MOSFET2288 - 4/13/07 6:30 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
I am of the belief that a desktop PC owner should never be more than three years behind in terms of software and hardware. It really boils down to what your needs are and what you expect your computer to do. If, for instance, you want to have the latest connection to the best technology, really living on the cutting edge, then, you should always be on the lookout to offload as much of your material as possible--such as on a Book Drive (250 gigabytes and higher) and to make backup copies of your data. Think about removable hard disks, maybe SCSI drives may prove useful, and certainly an IOMEGA ZIP disk would help you to save and move data. You should make certain that your computer system has the highest amount of random access memory available, and, if you could possibly afford it, a graphics card allowing the highest refresh rate. This combination of features pretty much assures that you would enjoy your computer system.
One of the things I'm facing is that you try to avoid saving too much data (including applications) onto your system. Use only the applications you need and try to make backup copies. Digital photographs take up a lot of hard disk space, so it makes sense to try to share them, and then ship them onto external storage media so that they are readily accessible.
But if your goals are not as ambitious, and you're more or less just using your computer to write letters or assignments, maybe collect digital pictures, you still should make backup copies, and try to keep as little data on your system as possible in order that you can enjoy your computer system while allowing it to perform your tasks at top speed. You might want to invest in blank CDs so that you can offload data and digital pictures on them. A typical blank CD goes up to 650 Megabytes of storage, so it is really a good investment to buy blank CDs for at least storage purposes. If you really are into downloading music onto your desktop system, my might consider storing this music onto DVDs, so, if your system does not come with a DVD writer, you might want to invest in that area. DVDs typically store at least 1 gigabyte of data, which is a good thing for storing images and sound.
To me, the move to a new system is only required when your system is so obsolete that you could not effectively perform an upgrade without spending the same money for parts that would be better spent on a new system. You could buy an inexpensive computer from a good manufacturer, such as Hewlett-Packard/Compaq for as little as $300 if you buy it on sale. This brings up another very good and important point: if you must buy a new computer, buy it from a good-quality manufacturer, and, in my view, this brings to mind H-P, Compaq, IBM, Gateway. These are reputable companies because they invest time, money and energy into developing systems that would stand the test of time, and prove, time and time again, capable of handling whatever data requirements you bring them, within reason. I have worked on IBM and H-P equipment for many years, and I wholeheartedly endorse both products. The original equipment manufacturers of computer hardware really develop top-notch, industry-standard equipment. And with all of the competition between manufacturers, the customer stands to gain a lot of technology for very little money. Of course, if have deep pockets, you might want to spend upward of $1,000 or more to really get a computer with all of the bells and whistles you might possibly want, but you must always go back to this question: what do I expect a computer to do? Then, do your research, and determine whether, in fact, you really need a new computer, or maybe spend a little bit of money to improve your current desktop system.
I would be remisce if I did not mention that in an effort to protect your computer system, to invest in antivirus, anti-spam, and other security software -- including, but not limited to, downloads of updates from Microsoft and other reputable software manufacturing companies with an eye out for protecting your system from malware.
I know that this is a long answer, but if you read it, you will find it worthwhile considering. If all you want is a quick recommendation, always stick with what you need your computer to do and determine whether your computer can do it without investment, with minor investment, or with major investment. Focus on what you need your computer to do, and then you can obtain the things required to gear up your computer. DO NOT REPLACE YOUR COMPUTER UNLESS, and UNTIL YOUR COMPUTER CAN NO LONGER HANDLE YOUR NEEDS SUCCESSFULLY. I have a backup computer system at home that is at least 8 years old, so the cost of bringing that system up to par would be greater than if I went outside and spent $300 on a brand new H-P or IBM system.
That's my advice for what it's worth. Sorry it took so many words to answer your question.
Best wishes.
Dave
Order made the difference
by jtease9325 - 4/21/07 11:57 AM In reply to: Consider Needs vs. Outlook--Be No More than 3 years Behind by MOSFET2288I think there were a several good replys... especially yours... I think the determining factor was the order on the webpage... once everyone read the first 3 (which were all equally as good as your reply)people just stopped reading.
Windosw updates
by craigy78 - 4/13/07 6:43 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
When Windows updates automatically it installs a load of files ($NtUninstallk920683$). and so on, there can be up to 60/70 megs of files. My question is CAN THESE FILES BE DELETED SAFELY.I have asked a few Computer shops and they can tell if yes or no could u please help.Regards Ian Stewart
Live Updates
by MOSFET2288 - 4/13/07 6:51 PM In reply to: Windosw updates by craigy78I don't really think it is advisable to delete system update files from Microsoft for the simple reason that their purpose is to plug holes in their operating systems or applications. If you were to delete those updated files, my guess is that you would expose your system to malware coming through the pores of the Internet and into your system and then you'd really be in trouble.
update files
by craigy78 - 4/13/07 7:08 PM In reply to: Live Updates by MOSFET2288As I tried to explain the files are shown as UNINSTALL files. in the past I have zipped them up into Winace program and then deleted the file with no prob's but I just wanted to know if it would make any difference to Windows running. As I am well into my mature years and not very adpt at reading instructions I thought I'd just ask. Thanks and Regards Ian
File Updates - Microsoft Downloads re: Security Settings
by MOSFET2288 - 4/14/07 7:26 AM In reply to: update files by craigy78I believe your original request was that you were wondering whether to delete those update files from Microsoft which, from what I understood, are files designed to "plug holes" in your operating system components. And I believe that my response was that deleting those files may be risky. If you proceed to delete those files, Windows may continue to work, but at what cost to your safety and security? In the alternative, you may wish to adopt anti-virus, anti-spyware, and anti-popup software in the event you decide to go ahead and delete your Microsoft update files. The risk of exposure to infection is greater, not lesser, today than ever before. It's in your hands, and so, I trust you will make the best decision understanding the risks. I hope this advice has proven helpful.
Windows updates
by salas831 - 4/21/07 6:54 PM In reply to: Windosw updates by craigy78You can safely delete all the uninstall files in the windows folder. I have done that and it's fine. Just as long as you don't wish to uninstall one later. That's the only reason to leave those files. You wont be deleting the updates themselves. They can and do eat up your storage on the hard drive.
When to replace a PC
by KAWGIRLVAL69 - 4/13/07 7:08 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
It is time to replace a PC when it no longer meets your needs. No one can tell you when that is but yourself. Technology changes constantly, making it nearly impossible for the average person to have the most advanced PC. If the PC is fast enough, and has the graphics and sound quality to perform the tasks that you require, keep it. If it crashes or crawls when using your software, then it is either time for a check-up or replacement. Some upgrades for out of date computers can cost more than a new one.
time to defibulate your computer files
by playerwbw2 - 4/13/07 7:12 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
clean out your computer and compress yor files so yo can free up space and help your computer work faster.
Maybe it is time for a new computer, but look at this first.
by forfun34 - 4/13/07 7:20 PM In reply to: What are the warning signs that any PC needs to be replaced? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Hey Janet,
I have one question for you, is your computer an older computer (ex: from somewhere in the 1990's) or is it relatively new? If it is old perhaps it is time to give it up. It's hardware is more than likely out-dated and updates may not be available to it anymore especially if it has an older Operating System. If your computer is fairly new, only a couple of years old for example, perhaps there is a way to jump start your computer. Here's how:
To improve overall performance of your computer go to the control panel and click on system. Next click on advanced, where it says settings click on that. Adjust windows visual effects for max performance.
Another good way to speed it up is to delete unnecessary temporary internet files.
You shouldn't need to boot your computer in safe mode unless there is a problem with windows of some sort. In order to ascertain the problem I'd need to know more information on your computer. Try formatting your computer's hardrive and starting anew. If possible try reinstalling your operating system. If there was a problem with windows, this can possibly remove that problem.
As far as Microsoft documents failing to save properly, this is likely a program error of sorts. Once again if possible, uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft software in question.
If your computer is an older model, then perhaps you'll be a lot happier with a new computer.
Hope things turn out ok for you, good luck ^^
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