Upgrade or Replace? Advice please
 

I have a Compaq IPAQ Desktop PC running Windows 98 at home it only has 64MB of RAM. I have recently got ADSL and have started using P2P stuff for MP3s and video type stuff. Problem is, I need to a) protect my pc with some anti virus firewall software (which I have bought already), and b) burn some of the stuff on my puter to CD

The virus software slows the machine up to a dead crawl, and Compaq are not supporting the machine, or even acknowledging its existence as far as I can tell, and therefore I cant find an internal cd write drive (the box is a funny shape due to trying to compete with the IMAC)

Can anyone give me some advice as to whether its worth trying to upgrade the RAM and add an external CD drive, or buying a new box? I am a bit apprehensive about adding RAM as there seems so many different types. Thanks everyone, and Happy Easter!

Sorry you have confused me here an IPAQ is a handheld are you talking about this or a desktop type PC?

If you can give model numbers etc I may be able to put you in touch with someone who could help

OK, as you have said its a desktop, lets assume it is.

CPU speed? If its much below 300mhz, you may have a problem.. although.. my old machine was a P166 32mb which burnt CD's OK (providing you didnt exceed 2X speed!) AND ran Norton Internet Security and AntiVirus.

Unless your machine is really slow, it shouldnt have a problem with AV or firewall software.. try the software suppliers website for suggestions.

RAM is cheap, it might be an option to look at.. as you have a branded machine, try Kingston or Crucial, they should be able to match memory to your PC.

As writers are also cheap now (even external), upgrade would be cheaper, however in the longer term, if you have a decent monitor and can afford around £500 to £600, this should kit you out with a capable system with an internal CD writer and plenty of RAM.

Cheers

Tim

Thanks for that guys. It is confusing, but for some reason, Compaq made my machine prior to the launch if the IPAQ handheld, branded it an IPAQ, and then stopped making it. The bloke in the Compaq shop on saturday was most confused. Didnt believe me until I showed him the manual. Anyway in the spirit of gadget obsessed men the world over, I have decided that I need new technology, therefore I am going to get a new puter. Cheers.

From crucial.com

System: Compaq iPAQ.


These 168-pin DIMM modules are compatible with your Compaq iPAQ. Help Me Choose
Module Size Price (ea.) Qty. Order Part No. Part Details
256MB $59.99 CT207836 • SDRAM, PC133 • CL=3 • Non-parity •
128MB $33.99 CT207832 • SDRAM, PC133 • CL=3 • Non-parity •
All prices shown in US dollars.



System Info:
Maximum memory: 512MB
Standard memory: 64 or 128MB removable
Slots: 2 (2 banks of 1)
Explanation of memory terms

Mishandled: If your monitor is good - or you can live with it - consider just getting a new system unit for this year. Then the monitor next year?

I try and upgrade something every year. Last year it was the system, this year it will be some significant bolt-in expansion devices for it. The monitor is three years old and doing fine.

Nowadays, if you get a standard system box, anything will fit inside it and most folks that know that onions, can fix it. Standardisation has brought some benefits, we won't waste time on the non-benefits!