To Upgrade or Replace

To Upgrade or Replace: That is the Question
By: Scott Hendison � Published: January 1998

Sometimes it's hard to make up your mind whether to upgrade or to replace your aging computer. In deciding this, there are several questions you can ask yourself. The first question is "What do I own now?"

Many people do not know what class of computer they have, or how much memory they have, or how big their hard drive is. To determine these factors, go to the DOS prompt. Type "MSD" then press . This will give you a complete rundown of your system. This will not work in Windows 95, but if you have Windows 95, then you have other options. If you do not understand the cryptic writing in DOS, don't be embarrassed. Any good computer store (mine) should give you a free evaluation telling you everything you need to know about your system. If you own a 286 or a 386, you should just replace the whole system. If you own at least a 486, with sound and a CD-ROM then you may have the makings of an upgrade. If you own a Pentium, and you already want to upgrade, then you are going to have to answer more questions.

The next question is "Why do I want more computer?" There are many possible answers that would indicate that an upgrade would be sufficient. If you answered that you want some more speed, or that you want to move up from Windows 3.1 to Win 95/98, or that you need more storage capacity than you have now, then it would be practical for you to upgrade your computer. However, if you listed all three of those items in your answer, then you may save money by trading in, and replacing your entire system.

Another question is "Can I afford to do this very often?" Many people trade in their cars every couple of years and some even more frequently. Other people keep their cars for many years, and yet still get around town just fine. Once you become "hooked" on computers, you quickly realize that you will never be done upgrading. The industry is evolving so rapidly that we are forced to upgrade if we want to keep using the newly developed games and programs. If you have the money to spend, then by all means, replace your whole system. If, like most of us, you are on a limited budget, prioritize what are the most important factors in your computer, and focus on that first for your upgrade.

For many people who own 486 computers, simply adding RAM would be a major improvement. This can be done for under $30. A lot of people will spread out their upgrade over a period of weeks or months, spending only what they can afford. Remember that there is no big hurry. The prices are only going to get lower.

Whether you choose to upgrade, or to get a new one, remember to look for something completely and totally upgradeable. The better computer shops (mine again) will tailor your system to not only your present needs, but your future ones as well.

note 2007:

Scott Hendison is the CEO of Search Commander. He is a former Portland computer store retailer that built a local on-site service business through Pay Per click and organic search engine optimization. In 2003, he started focusing exclusively on search marketing.

Today he is an internet marketing consultant that serves clients in 5 countries, who find him on the front page of most search engines for "internet consultant" and related phrases.