My Computer Died Yesterday

[Matt]

I smelled something like burning dust all week. Taking this as a sign, I made a point of backing up EVERYTHING essential onto my external hard drive. Yesterday, shortly after finishing working on something for my wife, the computer did a lout CLICK noise and shut off. Then, it did a loud ZAP POW noise, and I saw a little smoke come out of one of the vents.

It still has power (the light on the power switch still works) but nothing happens when you push it in. I'm no expert, but I think that my processor fried out on me.

This computer is 4-5 years old, so I'm due for a replacement anyways.

Who has the best deals on computers right now?

[Lisa]

Dunno about deals, but get an Apple! You'll never be sorry!

[Matt]

For my next computer, I want a decent gaming machine. I don't want/need top of the line, but I do want something that plays everything today at the top settings. Other than gaming, it'll be used for word processing and surfing the internet...I don't need to edit movies or music.

I want to keep this in the $700-800 range...I could do more than that but I'd need to consult with a divorce lawyer first.

If I can get an Apple that'll do that and be fully compatible with my PC stuff, then fine.

[B_Metal]

Building your own is SOOOO much cheaper and damn fun if you have the patience. Just my .02.

[I_Cassini]

I'm in need of a new computer too Matt. I am waiting for the Black friday deals and see what comes up.

[Abraham Smashington]

Hit up newegg.com Matt. I updated my machine (only had the power supply/HD/graphics card) with a new processor, motherboard,case and RAM for 300 bucks. And I'm able to run all of my current games on full settings,.

[B_Metal]

Hit up newegg.com Matt. I updated my machine (only had the power supply/HD/graphics card) with a new processor, motherboard,case and RAM for 300 bucks. And I'm able to run all of my current games on full settings,.

Man speaks troof. Plus they have awesome bundle deals from time to time on motherboards and processors, or other combos of parts for damn near dirt cheap.

Matter of fact I'm looking to build another pc for me and give this one to the wife for Xmas. At least that's the plan if I get my Xmas bonus.

[Matt]

Hit up newegg.com Matt. I updated my machine (only had the power supply/HD/graphics card) with a new processor, motherboard,case and RAM for 300 bucks. And I'm able to run all of my current games on full settings,.

1. My computer that died is a Compaq. Are you saying that I'll be able to update everything in THAT box?

2. I'm not THAT comfortable building a computer. I have no problem putting in RAM/installing a new drive and such, but actually messing around with mother boards/CPUs scares the hell out of me.

[Abraham Smashington]

Pre-built machines are fine but usually you can save a couple hundred bucks (by searching for deals) when buying pieces. There has got to be someone you work with that could install the mobo/chip for you if you don't feel comfortable doing it. I would assume that since it's a compaq it's all proprietary hardware? If so, you'd probably have to buy everything new, unless you can salvage some things. Depending on how old the computer is, it may be a good idea to just buy new.

[Timothy225]

I've got somebody to help me rebuild/modify my computer. I call him Dad. I'm planning on upgrading like a mofo soon, probably after the holidays, as I've found a lot of sellers try to move shit before the new stuff comes out or is announced.

[B_Metal]

Yeah, either have someone install the mobo and CPU that feels comfy doing it or you could buy a prebuilt. Not sure on Compaq's upgrade ability but like Rerb said you may be able to salvage some parts.

Just hate to see you over spend for no reason.

[Matt]

I may have a coworker who's up for heloing me on this after all...he's built a ton of computers, it seems.

[Matt]

Gonna hit Micro Center on the way home from work today...I'll see what they've got to offer, as they have the best pricing in the Twin Cities.

[B_Metal]

If he's a reliable sort then it'll save you a shit ton in the long run. I looked at prebuilts versus what I could get on parts and I think I was looking at about $275 to $350 in savings and maybe more if I cut a few corners.

[BillyG]

Matt, ibuypower.com. I will praise these guys over and over. You'll find some excellent deals from them. I've bought my last two rigs from them, and gave each a "bridge" upgrade before buying another. Honestly, after pricing all the shit out and then building myself it damn near comes to the price from ibuypower without the headaches.

Considering you're coming from a damn Compaq Matt, anything is going to be a nice ugprade. Check out this special:

http://www.ibuypower.com/Store/Special-B

You'll need to add Windows 7, but overall for $700 you can't beat it. If you built it yourself, you might save $150-$200, but if you're not comfortable with building your own, go for it.