The average desktop PC has a functional lifespan of roughly two to five years. The length of the lifespan greatly depends upon the type of system purchased, advances in hardware components and changes in the software that we run. Over time, users will tend to notice that their systems just aren't as fast as they used to be; they don't have enough space to store their files or don't meet the requirements for the latest software. When this happens, users have the option of either upgrading or replacing their PCs.

We will inspect your computer system and provide a detail hardware and software report with a cost effective recommendation of either upgrading or replacing your computer systems.

Upgrade or Replace

To determine which path might be better for your computer system, it is best to look at a cost comparison of what you will get out of each of the two options. If the overall cost of upgraded parts is more than 50% of the cost of a newer and better system, it is generally advisable to just purchase a new computer system instead of upgrading.

Memory

The memory inside of a desktop PC is the easiest and most cost effective upgrade that can be made. The more memory that a PC has, the more data it can process without having to use virtual memory. Virtual memory is memory that exceeds the system RAM and is swapped to and from the hard drive in order to keep the system running. Most desktop systems shipped with the memory that was sufficient at the time of purchase, but as computer programs get more complex, they use up more system RAM.

Hard Drives

The next easiest upgrade for a desktop PC is with the drives used for storage. Hard drive space roughly doubles ever two years and the amount of data that we store is growing just as quickly thanks to digital audio, video and pictures. If a computer is running out of space, it is easy to purchase a new internal hard drive for installation or an external drive.

CD/DVD Drives

This is probably the least expensive upgrade that can be done to a computer system. Most DVD burners can be found from $30 up to $50 for the latest models.

Video Cards

Typically most users will not need to upgrade the desktop video card unless they are looking for extra performance or functionality with 3D applications such as gaming. PC gaming in particular advances at a very rapid pace such that new graphics boards are released about every six months.

CPU

While it is possible to upgrade a processor in most desktop PCs, the process is fairly intricate and difficult to perform for most users. As a result, I typically do not recommend doing this unless you built your own computer from parts.