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New Computer For Christmas...With Your Old Windows XP
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02-Dec-2008
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So you want a new computer, but you don't want to...'try' Windows Vista? The good news is, you don't have to. The bad news is, there's a little bit of work involved.
Many resellers today, in addition to selling 'packaged' computers, also sell 'barebone' kits. These barebone kits usually require a small amount of assembly (under an hour's worth of work...by a trained professional or very careful and informed amateur) and can come with a variety of components; some are complete sets in and of themselves, others require you to customize the various components yourself. What this allows you to do is buy a barebone kit that comes with all the necessary components, save the hard drive/operating system; which will come from your current existing computer. Just to clarify – this does not mean the new computer will be slow. The two largest contributing factors in computer speed are processor (and how many cores) and memory (which, contrary to Microsoft Word Bandit Belief, is not the hard drive).
Some considerations to make before considering this route:
1. Software Compatibility. Windows XP comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit formats. This relates specifically to the type of processor your computer runs on. If you have the 32-bit version, any new processor would also have to be a 32-bit version. If you have a 64-bit version, any new processor would also have to be a 64-bit version.
2. Hardware Compatibility. Hard drives come in several different types. The older your computer, the more likely that you are to have an IDE (which could be a 66, 100 or 133) connection; it is not likely, but possible, that you have a SCSI connection (at which point I'll just recommend you stop right now); and if your computer is newer you very likely could have a SATA (either 150 or 300) connection. You are very likely to find kits under $200 for both the IDE and SATA versions. Some kits will come with compatibility for both IDE and SATA – but, again, make certain that it is the right IDE or SATA.
3. Processor speed. One of the reasons you're getting a new computer is the fact that your computer now runs slow. If you skimp out on the processor, you're going to defeat the purpose of the retrofit altogether. Currently, quad-core (4 individual processors) is the state-of-the-art technology. However, depending on your needs, a dual-core (2 individual processors) may be all that you need – possibly more. Factor in how long you plan on keeping this new computer, and figure out what you're willing to spend (expect between $200 and $400). For dual-core processors, you should be looking for no less than 2 GHz combined speed; for quad-core processors, the closer to 3 GHz combined the better – as the individual processors are of no use if they're insufficient for the task at hand.
4. Memory quantity. The other part of your computer running slow is the memory capacity. Memory has a speed as well, but that plays a less significant role in its value than the actual quantity. With Vista, I would recommend no less than 2 GB of RAM. However, with XP, you can get by very comfortably with around 1 GB of RAM. One thing to note – motherboards (the board inside the computer that everything plugs into) have a set number of slots for memory sticks; it is likely that you will find one with 2, however there are some with 4 or even as many as 8. This becomes important because the number of slots will limit your memory expandability more so than anything else. Given that memory is relatively cheap in today's market, you can get by with a 2 slot motherboard; just make certain that the 1 GB or 2 GB sticks you purchase are only 1 stick each (occasionally 1 GB will be sold as two 512 MB sticks, and 2 GB as two 1 GB sticks) – this will prevent you from running out of slots and needing to upgrade the entire system sooner than planned, instead of simply purchasing another stick of RAM.
5. Video, sound and networking. Most motherboards come with integrated video, sound and wired networking devices. If you just plan on using Internet, E-mail and business applications, you should be completely fine with the integrated devices. However, if you plan on getting into online video (which is a very quickly growing trend) or gaming, it would probably be best to purchase separate video and sound cards. If you do go this route, you will want a video card with no less than 256 MB RAM; and make certain that it is compatible with the motherboard expansion port slots (most likely AGP, PCI or PCI Express). Other optionals on video cards are extra ports for additional monitors and video in/out (allowing easier connectivity to large-screen televisions). With respect to sound, if you plan on purchasing a surround-sound speaker system, you should purchase a compatible/appropriate sound card so that you can enjoy and appreciate it – again, any less and it's a waste of an investment. With respect to networking, you should be fine with what's included unless you plan on utilizing wireless networking (which is just as relevant with desktops as it is with laptops, contrary to MWB belief) – you may wish to purchase a separate WiFi usb adapter.
6. Everything else. In addition to the important considerations with a “case swap”, there are several other minor considerations to make. It is important that the new barebone kit comes with an appropriate power supply. You may want more, but again, this is subjective to the other devices you choose; if they indicate a specific power supply, factor that in. If not, do not. Then there is the issue of a new mouse and/or keyboard; these do become worn over time, and typically will not set you back more than $20. You may, however, wish to purchase a wireless keyboard/mouse combo that will allow you a true media-center PC (this is particularly valuable if you plan on integrating with your larger screened TV). Media card readers and other peripheral devices can be important components depending on your mobile phone, digital camera and other portable devices.
After taking in all of those considerations, if you feel up to the task and loyal to Windows XP (Microsoft's undisputed operating system champion), by all means shop around and compare pricing on some barebone systems. As always, some shop-around comparisons: TigerDirect.com; NewEgg.com; MySimon.com. And don't be afraid to offer some random college kid $20 – it may be cheaper than migraine medicine. |
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