What you must consider while shopping for a refurbished computer
If you are comfortable with any pre-assembled computer and are in no great need for the latest technology then refurbished desktop computer is the best for you. These computers will surely not be new but if you are lucky then you may land on one that has been used for only a few months. But that doesnot mean that the computer will not work or is damaged. It will work fine but you will need to clear a few details before you buy one.
Think what you need a computer for, any specialized application or just for common purposes. By common purposes I mean listening to music, chatting on the net, storing data, writing DVD’s, writing your term papers and the lot. If these are your requirements then any computer is good for you. However, we all want better things so we will give you some ideas on getting the best refurbished desktop computer. Get the processor to be either Pentium or Core 2 Duo. AMD is also fine but Core 2 Duo will be best as it is the highest in the GHz rating. Also it is the newest in the line and will therefore be the fastest. Your RAM should at least be a 256MB one to run your Windows properly but if you can get higher then go for it.
You will also need to check for the hard drives as they will hold all your data. Usually in a refurbished computer, the hard drives wear out very quickly and so it would no be a very bad idea if you could replace the old one with a new one. Always remember that this is a mechanical part and chances of disruption are many so, keep back ups to what ever you store in your hard drive. When you buy a new desktop computer you are provided with all the accessories that are required simply because your computer is brand new. However, in the case of a refurbished computer it is not so. So there will be accessories that you require and that are essential but which will not be provided. These you will have to buy on your own and add to the price of your refurbished desktop computer and calculate the cost. If your dealer gives you these on his own then fine and ok, but if he does not then this is what you need.
You will need USB ports, a network port or an Ethernet, a drive (it would be best if you managed a DVD drive with a burner) and a built in or otherwise audio card. You will also require a wireless networking capacity to connect to the internet through wi-fi. These done, when you will compare your costs with that of a new desktop computer you will find that you have saved heaps of money by making this wise choice. For all you know it maybe a very ideal computer and last you a long long time.
Buying the new RAM
You can use the tools of antistatic wrist strap; screwdriver of Large Phillips and with some medium standard of expertise you can easily complete the task within one hour. If you already know the configuration of your computer then you shall know how much RAM is present in your system. Otherwise you can know it while the machine starts up as it will appear at the screen or even from the BIOS. While you are purchasing the new RAM best quality and compatibility, both are the important factors for your system and you can learn about those through some simple research from the internet.
RAM slot and installation
After you are ready with the new RAM now you will have to install it to your motherboard. You will have to cut off any electric connections to the system. Locating the RAM slot on the motherboard is easy. It is always advisable to study your motherboard manual provided by the manufacturer as it will be the best guide to locate the slot. Usually you can put the new RAM in the empty module but if the slots are occupied you will have to remove the old. You will see that the slots have clips on both the ends which lock the RAM. Such clips for locking include an aperture which is known as groove. You shall slide the RAM unit amid the groove and the memory shall be laid in the opening. But the lock clips will still remain open. Actually till now the RAM is just positioned at the entrance and for the full insertion you will have to tactfully apply some uniform force with the fingers at both sides. The process of installation will be complete when you will not be able to see the gold colored connectors at the bottom of the memory unit and the catch clip will close by the side of the unit ends.
Concluding steps
Now without putting the cabinet back start the computer to see whether the new added amount of memory is being displayed. If any error is found like unrecognizing of the new RAM or locking of the system then again disconnect to recheck the steps for installation of the memory. Start again the machine to see the results. If the problem persist you must call for some professional support.
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