When should I replace my computer?   

This is just one of those questions that comes to mind when you're experiencing problems with your computer. With the rapid advances in computer technology, it is often simpler and sometimes cheaper to replace a computer than to have it repaire. Of course, most of us want to maximize our current investment and generally we keep our comnputer until it breaks down. This practice is OK if you have a good backup system. Otherwise it can be pretty dangerous - especially when the computer if you're keeping business files or even more importantly photographs on it. Remember, when a computer breaks down, there's always a chance that the information contained in it will be lost forever.

No one can really tell you exactly when you should replace your computer. But there are several factors that can help you determine when to do so.

Time kills hard drives

Even though you have a backup of your important data, experiencing a computer or a hard drive crash is still a frustrating experience. A computer with a 3 year old hard drive can be a ticking time bomb. Believe me, eventually your hard drive will fail. The usual sign that your hard drive is failing is when you hear unusual sounds coming from it or your Operating System keeps detecting bad sectors in it. In this case, the old adage still applies that "prevention is better than the cure". Back up the data and either buy a new hard drive or treat yourself to a new PC.

Competency - is it still up to the job?

This is an important question. Especially when you use your computer intensively. As your computer ages it is less effective at running the new updated software and operating systems. Generally, new and updated software has more features and takes up more space on the hard drive and needs more powerful processors to run it. Mostly, new software is written by sloppy coders who are far to used to having fast processors and large amounts of RAM, to write decent lean code. Hence the bloatware and increased size of the files. Anyway, when your computer takes forever to load the software or display your photos - it's time to put it in the bin.

It's starting to break down frequently

Some computer users call a computer technician when they encounter a problem that is beyond their capacity to repair. This is alright if it happens say - once a year. But if it happens more often, the cost of labour and parts will probably surpass the price of a brand new computer. So at the first sign of a repeat expense due to computer repair, it is time to replace your computer.

A new unit versus an upgrade?

If you are trying to use the latest software but can’t due to hardware issues, your option would be to either upgrade or buy a new unit. Check the price of a brand new computer with the specification that you require, and compare it with the cost of upgrading your old computer. If it's similar or even less, then go ahead and buy a new computer. However if you are short on budget, an upgrade will suffice for the time being.

Style and design

If your computer looks old and tired, it's time to get a replacement. Unless you're completely broke, take the data off it and sling it in the skip. Cathode Ray Monitor? Please join the 21st century and get an LCD. Old beige CPU box? Come on! A computer is an amazing device as essential in a home as a cooker, a fridge or a TV. Go out and buy one that looks beautiful!

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