I have a Compaq Presario desktop,w/ Vista basic.Is there a grahpics card or some other type of additional equipment that I can add to "soup up" my PC?I'm a beginner,but a fast learner.I'm not into games too much,although Im open to suggestions.My budjet:$200.00.Thanks!
2007-07-09 02:16:55 · 6 answers · asked by TomatoMug 3 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
with a budget of $200 you can do 1 of 2 things to soup up your computer.
The first is to buy a better video card with a higher video ram that yours currently has these can get pricy and you would probably only need it for gaming.
The other thing (I suggest you do) is install more ram. These usually have to be bought in 2's and can run you as cheap as $70 each. This will make your computer run much more smoothly and allow you to have numerous programs open at once with little to no lag time. The tricky part with ram is that there are a few different types for a PC so i'd go to best buy or somewhere like that and they can look up your model of computer to see what type will work with it.
2007-07-09 02:32:19 · answer #1 · answered by raskew22 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, it would be better if you posted the model number and the specs (processor type/model, how much RAM, what kind of video).
If you just bought it straight up with no custom order, then just post the model number.
Best guess, since it is running Vista Basic is that this is an entry level model which typically are VERY low on RAM (memory). You really need at least 1GB of RAM for Vista to run well.
Next guess is that you don't have a separate video card. Adding a video card will help greatly as well.
For $200 you should start with more RAM, depending on the type your system uses, you could get and additional 512MB for less that $50.
If so, then you have $150 for a new video card. Not much, but for that price you can get a decent card that will improve your performance. Feel free to email with your specs and I can help you decide on what's best for you.
Also, don't listen to Evan. Compaq/HP are just as good as any other brand. I guarantee you you can order a Compaq that is just as good as any other brand (well, except Northwest Falcon or other boutique systems).
BTW - I run a Compaq desktop, a bunch of Dell desktops, Toshiba Laptop, Compaq Laptop, Gateway laptop, and an HP laptop. Brand really doesn't matter as much as what's inside.
2007-07-09 09:27:49 · answer #2 · answered by wyntre_2000 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your graphics card is probably built in and cannot be changed. If you can change it, that usually makes a big difference. Also, don't buy a Compaq next time. You use your computer every day, why be cheap.
2007-07-09 09:21:47 · answer #3 · answered by Evan 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That pretty hard to answer without knowing the model # and your current hardware options.
Specifically, what do you mean by "soup up"???
Please re-post and we can try to help.
2007-07-09 09:22:08 · answer #4 · answered by ELfaGeek 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most def ram. Put as much as you can in it. For 200 you should be able to max it out.
http://www.crucial.com/index.asp?gclid=CI7Gn_nJmo0CFRyOFQod3Gwa6Q
Click the "scan my system" to get the type. You don't have to buy from them but be sure to get the correct memory and install.
http://www.helpwithpcs.com/upgrading/installing_dimm_memory_ram.htm
How to install, if you don't know.
2007-07-09 09:31:32 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
RAM
2007-07-09 09:19:44 · answer #6 · answered by Virgilio C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋