I want to buy a new computer...but don't understand the lingo...what do i need?
928113
I would look for an Intel Core 2 Solo 2.0 GHz, with 512 MB of RAM
17258
Hate to disappoint, but there's no "simple" terms.\n\nFirst you need to determine if your new motherboard is ATX/MiniATX or the old AT-style.  If you've purchased your PC within the past 6 years (and it's not a name-brand...many use proprietary layouts for their motherboards), it is likely ATX.  Also you need to make sure the power supply will support the new motherboard and accessories.  If your power supply is not at least 300W, you may want to upgrade your power supply as well.\n\nBefore you purchase or obtain a new motherboard you must make sure the memory and CPU on your old board will work with the new one.  That is, unless you're replacing the CPU and memory as well, then there's no worry.\n\nOnce that's figured out, you'll need to remove all the add-in cards (if facing the front of the case laid out horizontally, they're in the back, left).  Simply unscrew the screws, or unclip the retention mechanism, and slide them out (gently).\n\nDisconnect the hard drives, floppy, CD/DVD drives, and case connectors (for lights/power switch).  Since hard drives and CD/DVD drives often use the same style connector, make a note of which cable goes to which connector (usually labeled IDE0 and IDE1).  If you have a diagram of the old motherboard make a note of which case connectors are which (usually one for HDD light, one for Power, one for Reset, and one for speaker).\n\nRemove all the screws holding the motherboard to the case.\n\nInsert the new motherboard/CPU and reverse the above process (replace screws, connections, drives, add-in cards).\n\nPlease Note (IMPORTANT): if you are replacing an existing motherboard with a make/model that is not the same as the original (or at least the same chipset), you will likely need to reinstall Windows 2000 and/or Windows XP.  Sometimes you can get away with not reinstalling Windows 98 or Windows 95, but often they also require a full reinstall.\n\nHappy swapping!
611098
this  confusing....computer service?
881931
Go to a reputable computer store and ask to speak to someone who is knowledgable on laptops.\nTell them what you need the laptop to do and how much you have to spend. They will show you alternatives. Do that in 3 or 4 stores, then go on the Internet and save yourself up to 10%.\nIn other words, get the best that you can afford. All manufacturers have good and bad models. A shop assistant who deals with them everyday will know the best (and worst)
487599
desktop computers can be a rather tricky buy at times, I would suggest that you look out for the cheapest and yet latest computers on the market, the best way to do this is on what they call warehouse sale markets some of them are also online.\n\nthese warehouse owners have a service where they sell desktop computers to normal customers like you and me, however with very reduced prices due to the fact that they do not have as much costs as normal shops do.\n\none such website is :\n\nhttp://ultimatemg.atspace.com/computer.htm\n\nalternatively I also suggest that you look into the laptop market at the moment you can find warehouse sale laptops at this site too:\n\nhttp://ultimatemg.atspace.com/laptop.htm\n\nI hope I have been of help in answering your question.
760239
You can do pretty well buying components from http://www.newegg.com\n\nI buy all my computer parts from them.  If you need an operating system, or a monitor, that will add to your cost, but if not, you could get some decent components for $500 for sure.\n\nI consistently buy "very good" components and build computers for that kind of a price.  They are pretty darn nice systems, but not entirely top of the line.  Thing about top of the line components is  that they are only slighty better than the cheaper components, but cost exponentially more money.  Better deal to go with stuff that isn't quite the best thing out there if you ask me. \n\nSpend money where it is due, but don't spend extra money on things that don't really make that much difference in a computer.  In order to keep your costs down, buy an inexpensive computer case, standard cd or dvd drive, a reliable but inexpensive motherboard, etc.  The areas to spend money are the processor and the video card if you ask me.  Everything else is trivial compared to the kind of performance those items will give you.  Yes you can get certain performance boosts out of better RAM, Hard Drives, Motherboards, etc, but again, most of your boosts for gaming will come from your CPU and your Video Card.\n\nI recently bought a bunch of AMD Athlon 64 3400+ processors from newegg, which came as a combo deal with a motherboard for free.  The whole package with CPU and Motherboard was only $99.00.  There are definitelty deals to be found.\n\n~Kyle
952930
All computer manufacturers have web sites and they will gladly sell upgrades.  It would be a good thing to go to PC magazine and check out the tech forums to ask questions.  Also try TechTV site or some of the Yahoo computer groups.  \nHP also has a toll free phone number so you can talk to a tech there, but remember, they are in the business to sell you their products.
194573
It would depend on the drive.  All information will be located on the box.  If you are not sure, bring a copy of what your computer has and bring it somewhere like Circuit City.  The sales people should be able to find one that will fit your system.
818841
It would be cheaper to buy a new PC that to upgrade your current hardware specs to run XP (any version).\n\nIf you can't afford brand new, have a look in your local trader - you'll find an abundance of good quality PC's at the moment as people start preparing for Vista - if you are going the way of 2nd hand, you couldn't ask for a better pick than what's around at the moment.
887428
The best place to buy computer parts is Newegg.com\n\nYou need computer case (buy off ebay)\nYou need motherboard (LGA775 or Socket 7 and Asus is #1)\nYou need processor. Core 2 Duo is better choice if you can afford it. Otherwise Core Duo. Just make sure the motherboard supports both.\nYou need 1GB or more of DDR  or DDR2 ram. (pqi brand is best)\nYou need a SATA (or IDE if motherboard doesn't support it) 100+ gb hard drive.  (Seagate, Maxtor, or Western Digital are best in order.)\nYou need a DVD Burner. (Lite-ON is best)\nYou need a PCI Express x16 graphics card. Windows Vista requires it now.\nYou need a Power Supply with SLI.  (Antec or Thermaltake only)\nYou need Operating System - Windows  XP|Vista for games and Linux for non-gamer.\n\nBuy a hauppauge tv tuner. With this, you can use Linux to record tv programs like a tivo.\n\nYou put it all together as instructed by the manuals.
137109
You mean replace your computer, I presume.\n\nThat's really up to you.  Obviously technology continues to advance at a rapid pace and better components continue to be made at lower prices.  In the end, it's all about whether you feel your computer serves your needs.\n\nDoes your present computer adequately run all the applications you use?  Can it easily multi-task?  Does its graphics capability match your needs?\n\nIf you're considering an OS upgrade (maybe the soon-to-arrive Windows Vista), that alone may provide the reason to shop for "newer-faster-better".
531696
u need to gift this computer to a frend of urs and buy a new pc.
514627
Find one on eBay! You'll probably want a branded one if you are not much of a computer person. They also come with technical support and really they are quite cheaper than if you had someone build you one from scratch. This is because a giant like Dell gets their parts in huge quantities and therfore pays MUCH less than a small computer shop would. The savings is passed on to you. And, if you ever decide to sell your PC and get a newer one, you'll find it easier to sell a branded and modeled unit versus a no-namer.
1049462
go get a new 100GB for $30, and learn how to config a computer, you'll learn something and actually be able to sell the thing
28911
Check out these computers at Overstock.com:\n\nhttp://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=1726379\nhttp://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=1135804\nhttp://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=493403\nhttp://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=472618\nhttp://www.overstock.com/?page=proframe&prod_id=483330
831722
Sounds like you want a lot but don't want to pay for it. Kinda like where I work! Just kidding.\n\n1. Watch the advertisements and sales flyer's. Read all the information, I.e. Hard drive size, memory size, DVD and CD writer (Yes, should write DVD as well as CD), and\nscreen size, and the operating system.\n\nA decent laptop will have 1024MB Ram, 80GB Hard Drive or larger, A DVD +/- R/RW and CD-R/RW Drive. Most newer laptops will have a "Lightscribe and/or Dual Layer Drive. Windows XP Home has been replaced by the Windows Media operating system and dealers are now offering free or low cost upgrades to the new Vista OS. Battery life is very important if you travel. Look for three to four hours use on a single charge. \n\nNewer Laptops will have a "Media Card Reader" in place of the old 3.5" diskette drive and feature USB and Firewire Ports along with Wireless G or better Networking. You may also find the old standby of a Dialup Modem on some models and even a hardwired RJ-45 socket for a LAN connection. Last, there should be a VGA Monitor out port and Line-In, Line-Out, and Headphone jacks.\n\nCPU: These days everyone is talking the new Dual processor systems. Both Intel and AMD make these. The advantage of using an AMD is in price. You can trade off less Hard Drive and memory if you go with the Intel CPU since they cost more or go with the AMD Turion and put money in larger a hard drive and memory.
382649
Hi. Having done both in the past (upgrading an old computer and then choosing to buy a new one the following time), I would have to agree with you, for a number of reasons:\n(1) although upgrading computers is a lot easier than it used to be, it is still time consuming, expensive and leads to a compouter that is NOT covered by a warranty. If the individual parts are new they will be covered, but not the computer as a whole. With a new PC you often get new software thrown in for a fraction of the cost of buying them separately, as well as a comprehensive warranty at least for 12 months. As most computers that have a problem usually fail earlier rather than later, having such a warranty gives you peace of mind.