Racehunter
Standard Member
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- Nov 6, 2009
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My current desktop is a Dell Dimension 9150, with a few minor upgrades giving the following spec:
Processor: Intel Pentium 4. 3.0GHz
Memory: 4 slots with 1024 MB DDR2-SDRAM (PC2-5300 / 667 MHz) in each.
HDD: Primary (C Drive) 150GB Secondary (Z Drive) 350GB
Op System: Windows XP Home + Office 2003 Professional.
I have been having a few problems with BSOD failures after running full back up from C drive to Z Drive, and sometimes when running full McAfee scan. Having updated drivers etc, removed potential conflicting software, I am left with the serious possibility that I have a hard drive failure just around the corner. This is worrying as I am not able to carry out back-up due to BSOD and I use the PC to run my business as well as for home use (home based office!)
So what are my options? I have considered simply backing up files only, to external hard drive then replacing existing C drive, but perhaps a new base unit would be better. What prompted this was a Staples offer for aCompaq Presario CQ5308 for £250 in my local branch, however I am not sure it is right for me.
I would like to move to Windows 7, run the usual Office programmes, surf the net, emails etc. Within the family users, my son downloads a lot of music, edits his own video's and we run a small home wireless network for a laptop and printer. BBC iplayer and other similar sites are used quite regularly, but gaming is something that we tend not to be involved with, that said I had always thought about using the PC to run one of the motor racing 'games' as a simulator to help in my hobby!
With all that said, I would appreciate suggestions that anyone may have for either an upgrade to existing system, a good 'ready built' PC or a spec sheet to build my own and what difference I would then see in performance. I do not need monitor as I have recently purchased a 22" LG widescreen one.
As for budget, If I could do something worthwhile for under £400, that would be good but its not set in stone.
Thanks
Steve
Processor: Intel Pentium 4. 3.0GHz
Memory: 4 slots with 1024 MB DDR2-SDRAM (PC2-5300 / 667 MHz) in each.
HDD: Primary (C Drive) 150GB Secondary (Z Drive) 350GB
Op System: Windows XP Home + Office 2003 Professional.
I have been having a few problems with BSOD failures after running full back up from C drive to Z Drive, and sometimes when running full McAfee scan. Having updated drivers etc, removed potential conflicting software, I am left with the serious possibility that I have a hard drive failure just around the corner. This is worrying as I am not able to carry out back-up due to BSOD and I use the PC to run my business as well as for home use (home based office!)
So what are my options? I have considered simply backing up files only, to external hard drive then replacing existing C drive, but perhaps a new base unit would be better. What prompted this was a Staples offer for aCompaq Presario CQ5308 for £250 in my local branch, however I am not sure it is right for me.
I would like to move to Windows 7, run the usual Office programmes, surf the net, emails etc. Within the family users, my son downloads a lot of music, edits his own video's and we run a small home wireless network for a laptop and printer. BBC iplayer and other similar sites are used quite regularly, but gaming is something that we tend not to be involved with, that said I had always thought about using the PC to run one of the motor racing 'games' as a simulator to help in my hobby!
With all that said, I would appreciate suggestions that anyone may have for either an upgrade to existing system, a good 'ready built' PC or a spec sheet to build my own and what difference I would then see in performance. I do not need monitor as I have recently purchased a 22" LG widescreen one.
As for budget, If I could do something worthwhile for under £400, that would be good but its not set in stone.
Thanks
Steve
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