I've seen a lot, I mean a lot of people create a .doc or .txt listing all of their usernames and password to accounts, like banks and such. If you ever did your taxes, a resume or anything else that has pesonal info like your address and SSN.

If you have the XP CD, do a clean install, but I would down load one of the eraseing programs and let it run at least 7 passes to meet DOD standards.

 

Well, after talking to you guys and pming telgren, I guess I am going to keep it, but I want to upgrade the HD and Ram. Is there anyway I can do something to make it run like a Dell would, because that is the only type of computers at my house that fully work or animation on pages and such. Also, I wanted to put Vista on it when I can get it ,but I dont know if its compatable, how do I know? Thanks guys

 

that depends on your system specs. vista is just bulkier than any other OS has ever been so it tends to be a resource hog. 2GB of RAM and a 2.0Ghz processor and you should be fine. i have a free copy of business on its way and need to get another 1GB of RAM first. RC1 ran great on a P4 3.0 1GB system i installed it on which is now my system running final with 3GB RAM instead.

 

Well, How do I go about updating the Ram and HD? Also, how do I go about installing a clear tower case or a different color or whatever it may be?

 

Before you format make sure you get your Windows key - there are tools out there (perfectly legal to do) that retrieve YOUR key from the registry. Just write it down and tape it to the case.

As for whether or not to sell the computer. If the drive is properly formatted, then it's not that big of a deal. If you are not comfortable with that option - then you will need to replace the hard drive with a different drive. New harddrives are selling well under the $100 mark... if your computer is worth several hundred dollars then it might be worth it... unfortunately alot of computers aren't worth the extra cost of replacing the drive - it is cheaper to put these computers in a closet than to sell them.If the buyer would go splits on the new drive cost then you might be in a good position.

just a $0.01 this time.

 

RAM you need to now how many slots you have for RAM and then what type and speed it is. Have you ever opened your case up? Are you wanting to upgrade the HD if you keep the computer? All you would have to do is buy one and add it, no need to get rid of the other one, use both! unless you dont have enough room or connections then you either image it or reinstall windows on the new one.

To change to another case you would have to make sure the case's form factor is compatible with that of your motherboard, typically an ATX case will be suffice. Then it is just a matter of moving everything over from one case to the other. This will have no effect on the performance of the computer with exception to cooling and whatnot, but in theory the computer is identical, just looks different.

 

Cool.I have already decided to keep it I guess. I just want to make it faster and hold more. Its about full. I have taken the panel off a few times to clean it out and all but how do I know where the slots are. Heres a picture pf the inside. Also, how do I know if it can be vista capable?

 

lol by crap do you mean "****"???

 

No, I mean photoshop, limewire, pictures, etcs..... tisk tisk[>:]lol

 

(I was tricked by a multipage thread again - my apologies.)

Do you know what motherboard that is? To answer your ram question I'd need that, or a better view of the memory slots - the important stuff is hidden to the left of the processor (the giant fan/heat sink in the top/middle of the first picture).

Guessing from the other components that you'll be looking for early DDR but there is a chance you'll be looking for SDRAM. In either case, it won't be that pricey as it isn't cutting edge.

If you still want to clean it - the best start is from fresh. To do that make sure you get the windows key. If you are buying a new hd then it's an EVEN better time to do it.
- get the windows key
- unplug old hd
- unplug power cord
- install new RAM (very easy)
- install new hd (very easy)
- reconnect power cord
- install windows
- reconnect the old hd if you want.... make a nice spot to throw extra files... if you wanted to you could put it in a usb enclosure and use it as a portable hd / backup.

What version of windows do you have?I could provide the cd image legally to you if you have a legal Windows key.