Why is my computer so slow? (a little o/t)

[GoblinMason (Craig)]

Ok, sorry for the off topic post but it seems like there are people here that know about computers.

Anyway, my laptop runs really slow for some reason, and I want to figure out the problem. I think the main problem is that it only has 128MB or RAM. Would upgrading this to 512MB probably help me or does something else need to be fixed?

My processor is 900mhz and I run basic programs like poker clients, PT, playerview, opera, and aim. I keep my computer clean wtih virusscan and adaware and have it updated windows xp.

Any insights on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot!

-Craig

[StacysMom]

I've heard that laptops on ebay often have problems. i.e. someone had a reason to no longer want them.... Did you buy it second hand?

If so, you are probably stainz!

/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[GoblinMason (Craig)]

Actually I did, but that's not the problem. I formatted the hard drive when I got it and installed fresh copies of everything. The hardware works fine with the execption of the battery. I just wonder what, if anything needs to be upgraded.

-Craig

[BusterStacks]

Thats not nearly enough RAM to run XP at a satisfactory speed.

[Jim Kuhn]

Add memory and run spybot search and destroy. Then go to pcpitstop.com and run free diagonstics. (sorry - in reverse order).

Thank you,

Jim Kuhn
Catfish4U
/images/graemlins/spade.gif /images/graemlins/diamond.gif /images/graemlins/club.gif /images/graemlins/heart.gif

[lorinda]

Go to pcpitstop and run all the tests, I'm computer-retarded but that place has helped many times.

Lori

[lorinda]

Grrr, beaten by seconds /images/graemlins/frown.gif

Lori

[GoblinMason (Craig)]

Ok will do. Thanks a lot to everyone for all the help. I'll run those diagnostics and see whats up and definitely get more memory.

-Craig

[GoblinMason (Craig)]

Ok, I ran the test and it confirmed that I need more memory.
Now here's the thing. I Did a search memory specifically for Dell Inspiron 8000 memorry and the modules it comes up with are about $70. After doing a general search for SODIMM PC100 256MB memory I seem to find it for about $40. Do I need ones that are specifically for my laptop or will the general kind be compatible.

Specifically for my computer:
http://www.kahlon.com/itemdetailpg.asp?itemid=61240

General 256 SODIMM PC100:
http://www.amamax.com/mmsdmc030n144100256.html

I'm sorry if these are dumb questions...like Lorinda, I'm a computer 'tard. /images/graemlins/confused.gif

Thanks again for all the help!

-Craig

[Terry]

Those should work. I do strongly suggest that you buy two of them.

Whoever sold you a system with Windows XP and 128 MB of RAM should be shot. XP takes around 230 MB just to run itself. Upgrading to 512 will feel like you've gotten a new computer.

[GoblinMason (Craig)]

[ QUOTE ]
Those should work. I do strongly suggest that you buy two of them.

Whoever sold you a system with Windows XP and 128 MB of RAM should be shot. XP takes around 230 MB just to run itself. Upgrading to 512 will feel like you've gotten a new computer.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks for the info. I guess I'll have to shoot myself! /images/graemlins/blush.gif
The system originally came with ME but I upgraded it when I got it. Ordering 2 256MBs today.

Thanks everyone for the help!

-Craig

[Scotty O]

If you want to increase the performance, memory is a great first step. 2nd, look for spyware using Adaware SE, Spybot and Spysweeper. Look here for the downloads ( http://www.majorgeeks.com). Lastly, go here ( http://www.blackviper.com). He has some great tweaks to increase your speed and overall system performance for stoping certain services on the PC. GOod Luck.

Scotty O