Do we upgrade, or purchase a new machine?
That is a good question. Here are some things to concider when choosing which option...
1. How old is my current pc, AND how much do I have invested in it already?
If your pc is old, (I know, if you have had a computer for more than 2 years it is concidered old!), but in this case we mean about 5 years or more, then the answer is almost always... purchase a new machine. The number of tech advances in this seemingly short time frame is simply so great that the amount of money spent to upgrade the system would far exceed the cost of a new machine.
However, if you spent a lot of money back in the day, you may still have a useful computer. And depending on the options that you chose back then, an upgrade may not be too costly now.
2. How many core processors, and how much RAM do you have?
Do you have at least a dual core processor in your machine? If so, then your on the way to a possible upgrade. Most dual core processors are still just fine for use with Windows 7. If you have a Pentium D, Celeron M or other Single core processor then you will probably want to retire these systems.
Memory is another thing. Your system should at least be able to handle up to 8GB of ram, or at the very least 4GB. Granted you can get by with as little as 2GB, however as we all know the software will get more complex as time goes on, which will require more and more memory in the future. The smaller the MAX memory for your system, the shorter life span it will have. |
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Now... Video!
Here is where it gets interesting. The new operating systems are using much more of the special effects that make it fun and interactive. This requires a good video processor. Many of the older, cheaper systems did not have a video processor or GPU installed. This is almost a must have with the new 3D happy OS environments.
Video upgrades are available for almost every system out there. Cost is the thing that will be the deciding factor here. If you have a GPU or "Video Card" already installed in your system then you may be on your way to an upgrade.
Finally... Touch Screen Capability...
Operating systems are now incorperating more touch screen capability. Replacing your monitor is the only way to aquire this feature.
These are just a few of the factors involved in choosing the upgrade vs. getting the new pc. If you would like some assistance in making this decision let us know. We are happy to help. |
