Computer build or upgrade?

**Jakkoff** · #1 30-06-2007, 07:18 PM

Hi, I have a very basic computer which doesn't run too well for me. I would like to upgrade it with more RAM, Graphics card etc. Bearing in mind that my budget is fairly low as I'm only 15 years old, what would you say was the better thing to do..Upgrade my computer, by adding things on here and there or start fresh on building my own computer? What would work out better for me in performance, and would also be cheaper? What are your ideas?
Thanks :D

PS. The computer is going to be used mainly for media and gaming.

**alex** · #2 30-06-2007, 09:00 PM

To give us a clearer idea of whether or not you should be going the upgrade route can you post your current spec please.

**Jakkoff** · #3 30-06-2007, 09:08 PM

I'm running a VERY basic system.

Intel Celeron D 341 Processor
2.93GHz, 533MHz FSB, 0.25MB Cache
256MB DDR RAM
80GB Hard Disk Drive
CD Re-Writer Drive
64MB Intel Integrated Graphics
6 USB Connections
Running Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
And all running on a 17" TFT Flat Panel Monitor

As you can see it is very basic, with just 256MB RAM which is the first thing I was going to do, also I was thinking of then gettin an external hard drive maybe. And if there's anything else you are concerned I should do please let me know. And THE INITIAL QUESTION should I improve on this or just start fresh?
Thanks.

**alex** · #4 30-06-2007, 09:09 PM

If you're intending to game Jack, I'd strongly recommend losing everything except the monitor.

Whats your budget?

**Jakkoff** · #5 30-06-2007, 09:56 PM

I am on a reasonably low budget unfortunately. Only about £300. Until I get more money that is.

**Jakkoff** · #6 30-06-2007, 10:38 PM

Thanks for that advice alex. I see Alex has gone offline. So with Alex's advice, would anyone recommend any certain components that I should get which will make my computer perform alot better for gaming etc.

**alex** · #7 30-06-2007, 11:35 PM

Originally Posted by Jakkoff

Thanks for that advice alex. I see Alex has gone offline. So with Alex's advice, would anyone recommend any certain components that I should get which will make my computer perform alot better for gaming etc.

I'm back.

The most cost effective way for you to go would be to up the ram and purchase a graphics card.

I'd go for 1GB at a pinch, but 2gb if you can afford it.

I'm assuming your graphics card slot is AGP, but can you confirm this please?

**Jakkoff** · #8 30-06-2007, 11:45 PM

Where would I find out what my graphics slot is? Sorry I'm new to this.
If you are talking about a BROWN slot then yes it is.

**CrazyComputerMan** · #9 01-07-2007, 09:03 AM

Yes, Graphic card is brown slot...

See the picture below to comfirm..

**CrazyComputerMan** · #10 01-07-2007, 09:05 AM

Yes it is

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