I am planning to buy a used Compaq c501 laptop with 512 ram, 80 gb hd, windows vista and a dvd burner for 365.00 What should I check before I buy it? Is there any tests I can do.Like checking the task manager performance section? Checking for dead pixels.Please help.
2007-09-26 09:13:44 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Laptops & Notebooks
That is too little memory for Vista. Check to see if it is 2x256 or 1x512. I would recommend adding at least another 512. Preferably 1GB
To look for dead pixels create images of a full black screen, a full red screen, a full blue screen and a full green screen.
Check that the hinge action is still smooth and that the screen stays where you leave it. Watch the video as you open and close the lid to ensure that the flex cable is still good.
Look at the vents for the fan. Make sure they are clear and not clogged with dust and lint.
Listen for squealing or rattling noises from the hard drive. Same for the CPU fan.
Vista is pretty recent to be on a second hand system. If it was pre-installed make sure the laptop is about the right age and has the right stickers on it. If the seller installed it ask him for the box (and COA) that it came in.
2007-09-26 09:33:12 · answer #1 · answered by Simon T 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
512 ram is a little light for Vista. For 365 you cant expect a whole lot from a laptop so if it turns on you're probably getting out ahead.
Turn it on and use it for 30 mins or so to make sure the cpu fan works and does not over heat. Check the keyboard for sticking keys or ones that do not function.
2007-09-26 16:27:33 · answer #2 · answered by Dan B 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋