Computer Noob Here
 

Okay im a summing most people here are on a computer :eek: so maybe some one can help me out here. I got a dell Dimension 5150. I would like to "speed" it up and add more storage space (250mb of ram and 70 gig hard drive right now). So what would I need to buy? :erm:
Again when it comes to computers I know how to use them not build em haha.:)

You have this?

http://www.dell.com/content/products...=28&l=en&s=dfb

And only 256MB of RAM? Are you sure?

you will already speed it a real up by doubling the ram... put it on max and you will fly...

70gigs with Vista is slowing your process, because all the cache stored in your HD may take a lot of time to proceed, because the system needs more space... have a single HD jut for Vista, like 100 Gigs, and you will have no more storage problem for the OS itself...

Positive, aunt went for cost not speed thats why so little.

I dont have vista, Im using xp service pack 2. Its not a super slow computer, but it has a lot more potential. Any one have some links to some items i could look into?

A hard drive won't really "speed it up" unless you go with a 10k rpm over the standard.
If you really only have 256mb of ram, upgrade to at LEAST 1024mb (or better said, 1gb). Again, you won't notice a huge speed increase with that, but you'll be able to do more.

For a speed increase, I recommend a new processor. I don't know much about Dells, but I assume you'll need to upgrade the entire machine in order to upgrade the processor.. So if you can find out the socket type of the processor in the Dell, that's what I would recommend increasing.. on top of the ram, of course.

More ram! At the very least, but the processor is the heart of thecomputer, it will speed it up. Go to yourlocal computer store.

Anyone have some links to products? Like on ebay or something?

If you can increase your RAM to 2 GB. That is the sweet spot for XP. Never want to skimp on RAM. This will probably at least double the speed of your computer because right now, most of your memory is actually being stored on the hard drive. The processor isn't bad for XP even though its a single core. RAM would be the largest sticking point. No one should be forced to use a computer with less than 2 GB of RAM. Upgrading to 2 GB will cost about $75.00 plus shipping at www.newegg.com. You can't go over 3 GB though on XP, even though the board supports 4 GB.

Look at Newegg.com for products and call them directly if you have questions if something works for your particular model. One thing to note about Dell is that they do not plan their machines for expansion. The power supply provided will give you enough power for what you buy but not additional cards or devices. If you add a video card, hard drive or new optical drive, then you will most likely need to improve the power supply as well.

If you need more HDD space buy a large HDD and use it as a secondary hard drive. Use this drive to store your important files as well as your "large" media files.

If you can make sure to place this second hard drive on a channel other than the one your current drive is using.

Use the smaller (current) HDD for the OS and application files.

Also, just placing new hardware in the box doesn't always lead to a speed increase. Even if it does you can often times go a little fast with minimal software tweaking to the OS and the applications you use.

Okay I went there and found these(I did it using there tool so it should work for my computer). Here is what I found. Now can I install both of them on the same computer? And how hard are they to install?

Your PC has 4 memory slots so you can install both of those. Installing should take a few minutes.. open the case and pop them in... They only insert in one direction and don't need drivers.

Ok well I know I didn't start this thread but I dont want to start another one.

I use a lot of my CPU with Vista and it pops up anywhere from 19% to 100% and I have 2gb ram using 53% ram at most times.
Intel Celeron M Processor (1.60GHz)
2gb RAM

Whats the cheapest one I can get as an upgrade and where do you suggest I get it?
BW I have an Insperon B130

Upgrade your processor to a full Core 2 Duo chip, if you can. I only buy components at newegg.com and PC Club.. PC Club is nice when I need it immediately. They are 10 minutes away and have semi-decent prices. Newegg.com has the best priced usually.

Im trying to keep it cheap tbh lmao

There are Core 2 Duo chips out there for $125 or so. That is fairly cheap.

Cheap, fast and reliable....pick two

In other words if you want to drop in "the fastest thing I can get" don't expect it to come "cheap".

I justify such costs by reminding myself that the computer will probably be useful for many years to come after such an upgrade. The Core 2 Duo's are a steal in the low $100 range anyway. I spent more than that on controllers for my Nintendo Wii. :(

Don't forget quality. It's often you get what you pay for.

My best policy is to upgrade core components first. And get friendly with the local data doctor. They have some great stuff ;) May even sell it to ya and it'll work till you can afford to upgrade.

I agree with Webmist. And pretty much everyone else - RAM will always be the best bang for your buck in terms of immediate speed increase if you're running 1GB or below.

I ordered "2" 1 Gig ram things. Cost about $50. Hope it helps alot.

It certainly will. :) Just take your time installing them, and remember that the notch on the chip is offset to one side - basically that the chips only go in one way. You don't need to force it - just a little pressure will snap the chips into place so that the side "hooks" will clip in.

Good luck! :)