Computer IS Fried, Need Your input on what to do next.

[bikinpunk]

Got my computer checked out for $35. Lightning ruined Power Supply & Motherboard. The guy was very helpful in recommendations. He said his concern was for me keeping all the extras (5.1 surround, firewire, etc) ports I had on my mother board when replacing it.

I have this computer:
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/d...name=c00379422

I'm looking at getting replacements parts (motherboard, power supply) or just outright buying a new computer. My parents said they would help me out if I wanted to buy a new computer (meaning, nearly pay for it ) or I can order what I need and install it myself. I need your advice here. I've never replaced anything on a computer before, so I'm weary of replacing the parts, however, I'm very hands on and learn quickly. I feel stupid for asking, but do the processors come with motherboards? Or are they completely seperate? I ask because I was looking at some of the processors and I'm just truthfully not sure.

Option #1: Replace Parts

Mother Board: No idea. Since I have to get a new one, I might as well get something good. Therefore, I'm looking at AMD X2: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103747
or Intel Duo Core 2: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115004


Option #2: Buy new tower
I know you guys have probably seen my previous post about BB or Dell limited due to financing so let's stay within that. My parents will likely pay a good bit, but I'm still putting it on a card. The tower I have now isn't that bad, but when I bought it I didn't know much about video processing cards. I have an integrated one. I'm sure it's not the caliber of what "aftermarket" brands are. I have 1g ram, which is going to hurt for my future projects of video editing/cad. I'd also like this thing to be with me 4 years down the road and don't want to have to replace it any sooner than that (like I'm doing now). Also, is there a way I can use my Media Center hardware from my previous computer on my new one? I can probably find the software to download if I needed to, or just buy it outright. If I go the intel route, could I use my current memory and put that into a new computer? Basically, what could I use from my fried computer in a newer one. That would give me the option of going a little bit cheaper and re-using good equipment. What specs should I watch out for? Ie: My current setup has Four 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets, therefore my memory must be 240-pin. So, I should make sure whatever I get has 240-pin sockets if I want to re-use that memory, right? I know that all of that seems pointless and I might as well get the 2 parts I need, but that would keep me from having to buy the motherboard & processor (most expensive part afaik) and still allow me to use available parts.

I'm sorry if this seems trivial or stupid to ask, I'm just really unsure of what would be more practical. I appreciate any help or suggestions.

Edit: Price Range ~ $1000

[bikinpunk]

This should help:

What I plan to do: Video Editing, CAD, internet, office products.

What I have (thats not burnt up)
Everything came stock when I bought it from BB

Memory: 1g ram (I'm not sure if it's 1 or two sticks) 240-pin DDR2
Video Card: Integrated
Audio: Integrated, Realtek 5.1
Tv Tuner w/Remote
Case: HP
O/S: Windows XP w/Media Center 2005
Optical Drives: DVD-ROM & DVD-RW+DL


Anything I'm leaving out?

What I want:
New Processor: Probably Duo Core 2 since it seems from this and other forums the AMD compatibility may be an issue.
Mother Board: I had Micro-ATX, so something like that
Video: NO idea, but want at least 256 mb w/dvi input and tv-out (s-vid, composite, whatever the norm is)
Audio: Nothing super-fancy, I listen to my music on my computer, but it's rarely for audiophile
purposes.
Power Supply: No idea. I'd like the cpu to run quiet though.

I don't need anything fancy AFA visuals, but I do want this thing to last me a very long time. Therefore, I'm hoping to re-use anything I can, whether I go with a new tower bought at a store, or simply replace bad parts. I was truly thinking if my parents are going to front a computer I should just find a good one I like and re-use the ram I have. Then keep the old one around and sometime in the future (tax returns) build it back up when I have the time and money.

I'd like to say that a new computer budget would be $1000 since my parents will pay the majority. However, if I'm buying parts I'm having to pay out of pocket since it won't be financed, so that changes up things a bit. I don't have a target range for myself, but I can't really afford to pay more than $600 out of pocket.

[peliROJO]

I thought you said the PC was newish. In that case is there a valid warranty left? I don't care if lighting storms aren't covered... Is there a warranty on the computer? If so, you can tell them that you always leave the computer on, one day you came home and it was off, so you tried to start it, it wouldn't start, you left it alone for a while and tried again. And now you are calling tech support because it's not working. They will warranty the PC at that point.

The link to HP.com isn't working...

You won't be able to replace the motherboard with a better one, because the Reinstall CD you have with the Operating System on it is designed for that specific machine and when you start replacing parts theres a good chance that it won't work.

Reusing some of the parts in a custom built machine is possible, but again, you won't be able to use the Operating System that you currently have because it's been customized to work with your HP only. You'd need to get another copy of Windows Media Center.

[bikinpunk]

Originally Posted by peliROJO

I thought you said the PC was newish. In that case is there a valid warranty left? I don't care if lighting storms aren't covered... Is there a warranty on the computer? If so, you can tell them that you always leave the computer on, one day you came home and it was off, so you tried to start it, it wouldn't start, you left it alone for a while and tried again. And now you are calling tech support because it's not working. They will warranty the PC at that point.

The link to HP.com isn't working...

You won't be able to replace the motherboard with a better one, because the Reinstall CD you have with the Operating System on it is designed for that specific machine and when you start replacing parts theres a good chance that it won't work.

Reusing some of the parts in a custom built machine is possible, but again, you won't be able to use the Operating System that you currently have because it's been customized to work with your HP only. You'd need to get another copy of Windows Media Center.

Heck, I'm not too sure I even have a re-install CD.

It is newish, but I believe it's a week over a year old. The guy that looked at it said it was obviously fried. By that I assume he meant you could see damage. I'll call HP though and see.

You're saying the odds of me being able to install a newer mobo are slim b/c of the O/S? That will definately change things if I'm having to buy an O/S. I might as well buy a new computer. Or d/l xp....

[CameronJr9]

My roomie replaced his mobo in order to play WOW. He used his original install CD that came with the computer. No problems. Although, I have to say the biggest problem is that you bought an HP. I've never had more problems than with an HP. Unless you ask me about Compaq.

[NightKidsGTR]

For whatever reason, I couldn't view the site with your computer on it. But if it's just the MoBo (motherboard), Processor, and PSU (Power Supply) you need, I would go with just replacing the parts. If you go this route, it gets a little tricky if you're a first timer. If you have a friend that can help you install stuff or knows how to install computer parts, have him help you and you can learn from him.

If you're buying a MoBo, make sure you buy the right type (that can support your processor). Processors usually don't come with a MoBo, but if you have a computer place (like Fry's Electronics) around you, they usually sell you MoBo and processor in a bundle . I would go with the Intel Dual Core processor (reasons were listed by other users in your other thread). Your current computer had 1GB of 240-pin DDR2 Ram, correct? While keeping the number of pins in mind, you also have to take a look at the voltage on the MoBo. On the MoBo box, it should say the voltage that it supports.

I'll give you an example using my own computer: my MoBo supports 184-pin, 400Mhz DDR RAM. So, I need to buy RAM that runs @ 400Mhz. 400Mhz is the limit; anything higher will not work because there isn't enough power going to the RAM. Lower voltage is compatible (I was, at one point, running a 512MB RAM stick @ 333Mhz and one 512MB RAM stick @ 400Mhz) because there is enough power, but it does reduce performance just a bit.

Since you do a lot of projects like video editing and CAD, I would recommend a better graphics card than the integrated one (as it usually robs you of memory). I recommend an ATi Graphics card; nothing too high end, as some of the "sale" graphics card have enough power to handle the tasks you'll be doing. Make sure you get the right one, though: if your MoBo has an AGP graphics slot, buy AGP; if it has PCI Express slot, buy a PCI-E card. Most new MoBos have a PCI-E slot, but check to make sure.

In terms of PSU, I would go with something at least 400W. If you're upgrading your graphics card, you will need a high wattage PSU to power it since, these days, graphics cards are so strong, they need to be connected to the PSU.

You should be able to get away with this these parts for under $1000 if you can recycle a lot of the old ones. Hope this helps

[NightKidsGTR]

Originally Posted by peliROJO

You won't be able to replace the motherboard with a better one, because the Reinstall CD you have with the Operating System on it is designed for that specific machine and when you start replacing parts theres a good chance that it won't work.

Reusing some of the parts in a custom built machine is possible, but again, you won't be able to use the Operating System that you currently have because it's been customized to work with your HP only. You'd need to get another copy of Windows Media Center.

Not true; I've replaced a motherboard and processor in my PC recently and used my old HDD w/ Windows XP and everything on it and it works beautifully.

[jasonandre]

If your HP is still under warranty, then you already know what to do. But I'm assuming it isn't, so the easy answer is to either buy non-HP replacement parts or just a new computer.

Since HP/Dell/Gateway are all proprietary companies, they make their cases and motherboards proprietary...meaning that you can only fit another HP-branded motherboard. That would be hella expensive. Buying non-proprietary parts means that you will need to also buy a new computer case. That would the be the cheapest and easiest route to get you back to what you originally had.

Without a doubt, you can still used the other functioning parts from your HP towards the new one. You just have to make sure that the replacement motherboard supports that same format. That should save you plenty.

Replacing and rebuilding the damaged parts is actually simpler than you might think. And to keep it simple, just make sure you buy the retail version of the processor you need...the retail version comes with the instructions and heatsink/fan combined.

I have confidence you can fix it yourself. The force is strong with you, young bikinpunk.

[Izzy]

Since you're saying that audio/video is integrated, you'll be either shopping for another MoBo with integrated audio/video...or you will need a video card and sound card.

[NightKidsGTR]

Most MoBos do have integrated audio/video, but for your projects, integrated video isn't gonna cut it. Most integrated audio is 6.1, but it's not as strong as an aftermarket sound card

[bikinpunk]

Okay, another question...

Assuming a d/l XP media center, how would you go about installing this if you replace the mobo? Is there a prompt to load the cd, jump drive, etc?

I have a 80gb external drive, so I could put the program onto that? Do I need to burn a cd/dvd with the image file onto it? ...NO f'ing idea how to load dowloaded windows to my new mobo.

[bikinpunk]

From convo w/HP tech:

Me: I had considered ordering a new power supply and mother board, however, I
am told that HP's technology is proprietary and if I tried to replace
motherboard with an aftermarket one that windows would not load correctly
and I would ultimately have to buy a copy of windows. Is there truth to
this? I was hoping to simply upgrade my mother board and processor, along
with power supply, but from what I'm being told I can't simply do that.

HP: Let me explain it to you.

Me: Please do. I was hoping to 'upgrade' what I had as far as mobo,
processor, and power supply.

HP: What you have heard is true, once you upgrade the motherboard, you may
need to purchase a new version of OS.

HP: continuing...

HP: So if you consider upgrading the motherboard, power supply and processor
of the PC, then you can go for a brand new PC from us with the latest
configuration, that would be an excellent option rather than upgrading the
components.

Me: Okay. I personally feel that upgrading the components I need would be my
best option, as I have spent some time on the internet and stores pricing
new systems. I feel that those prices are a bit out of my league at this
point.

HP: I see, may I know which motherboard/processor and power supply you would
like to upgrade to?

Me: I haven't narrowed down a specific part yet for each. The reason being,
what I had heard about compatibility issues. That being said, I was
wanting to invest in an Intel Duo Core 2 chip and a micro-atx mother
board. I don't have a specific on the power supply, other than something
that does about 550w or so, seeing that the video card I will use requires
400watts.

Me: I realize you don't have the freedom to name specific brands, but if you
can give me certain specifications I need to watch for, that would be very
helpful to me. If you'd like, I can even provide internet links to a few
of the items I'm looking at.

HP: Sure, you can give me the links, thank you for your understanding though.


Me: Mother Board:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131031

Processor:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115004

Power Supply:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16817159006

HP: Being used this motherboard I have no words to explain about this
motherboard, it is simply awesome!!! My friend got the same board.

Me: Another concern is that since I had on-board audio/video those will need
to be replaced. The video card I'm planning to use is this:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130033

HP: For sure You need not remove it, you can just disable it in BIOS. I mean the onboard video.

Me: Okay. I don't know, because I didnt' think to ask, but like I said, I
assume that the video is fried since the mobo is.

HP: Erin, since you are planning to upgrade the mobo, I think you need to go
for a stand alone OS as well.

Me: My issue here is compatibility, though. Is it certain the windows won't
run once I replace the mobo, or is that just an uncertainty?

HP: It will not run for sure. Our mobos has something called tatoo information
in it. So once you change the mobo, and use the recovery CD it will search
for this tatoo and it may not work since the new motherboard does not have
it. this happens because the OS/recovery is also made for HP PCs.
Stand alone is nothing but a full version of operating system from
Microsoft.

[dentrecords]

For what it's worth, my advice is to get a Mac. I work in Network Security, and have been using windows/pcs since windows 3.1 days. I've done hundreds of windows installs and spent approximately 8 hours attempting to install windows with legitimate copies this past saturday.. blue screens during installs, blue screens after applying SP2, random reboots, etc, etc... I have a Mac and I've not had to do anything to it in a year and a half (other than install Tiger to update from Panther). It is so solid, it's the one constant in my home network. No spyware, no popups, no viruses.. Everything just.. works.

This seems to be a CAD application for Mac...

http://www.interstudio.net/Domus13Submit.html

I would recommend looking at a Mac Mini (http://www.apple.com/macmini/) since you've already got a display and whatnot. The dual core macmini should perform pretty well for you, and you can run windows and OS X simultaneously with parallels (http://www.apple.com/downloads/macos...rkstation.html) so if there's any one app holding you back from a mac, you can still run it. I have saved myself days... no, weeks of frustration with OS X. I don't want to sound like a fanboy, but really, just look at your above post... how many hoops should you really have to go through to run a few applications? If you get tired of OS X, install windows natively through boot camp, and just run that on the ultra quiet apple hardware.

If you're still stuck on the PC, the new intel dual cores are actually performing better dollar for dollar than the AMDs.. I feel like a traitor for saying this (I run an AMD 64 in my main pc) but the core 2 duos rock. I understand the need to go with best buy due to their financing options, and I've gone through a few different machines with them. Stay away from HP/Compaq, my Toshiba laptop has been just fine. Can't comment on Dell, but I've seen quite a few comments about terrible customer service.

As for 64 bit processors, I'm running XP x64 (only version that installed and remained stable at all on my hardware), and there are significant disadvantages to running a 64 bit OS at this point. There is no real tangible advantage of running 64 bit stuff (at this point, and for the next few years at least) for 99% of the users out there, but you'll have a much harder time finding drivers for any of your hardware.

[bikinpunk]

I've decided to order the parts I need instead of buying a computer outright. After many hours of looking around, I realized it would definatly cost more to buy a new computer than salvage what I have left. I still have a fear of something not going smoothly, so I'll likely take the parts and have them installed by the shop who tested it. Labor will be about $50-100, which I can handle. Also, I'm not sure I'll need a video card, so I'm leaving that suggestion up to you all.

These are the parts I'm looking at:

Mobo: http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16813128016

Processor:
http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16819115005

Power Supply:
Having trouble finding a micro atx board. Does anyone know if the full HP towers will support other types of power supplies?

Video Card:
http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16814133150


If you feel there is anything I should change. Like I said, I'd like your advice on the video card. I'm not too sure I'll need it, but if I do, I want something I'll be happy with in the future.

[NightKidsGTR]

If it's a full tower, any PSU should do; just make sure you get the correct wattage to support the video card (400W+ is usually a safe bet). If you're getting a shop to install it for you, I would print out the parts you want and bring it to the shop to make sure everything is compatible and to kind of help you with any questions and such. Good luck!

[peliROJO]

Yeah, have them check the compatibility. I just scanned the links and it looks good so far. I'll look again tomorrow.

So you have the mobo, processor, and video card. You need a power supply and possibly a case if your HP case is proprietary which I have heard numerous times.

You can reuse the Hard Drive and maybe the RAM. Again I'm not sure of your RAM specs because several of the links you've given haven't worked.

You're basically building a new machines minus the Hard Drive. I hope it goes smoothly for you. You obviously have a second computer so you can always ask specific questions during the install if needed. Good luck!

And double check that RAM.

[peliROJO]

Originally Posted by NightKidsGTR

Not true; I've replaced a motherboard and processor in my PC recently and used my old HDD w/ Windows XP and everything on it and it works beautifully.

Originally Posted by bikinpunk

Me: My issue here is compatibility, though. Is it certain the windows won't
run once I replace the mobo, or is that just an uncertainty?

HP: It will not run for sure. Our mobos has something called tatoo information
in it. So once you change the mobo, and use the recovery CD it will search
for this tatoo and it may not work since the new motherboard does not have
it. this happens because the OS/recovery is also made for HP PCs.
Stand alone is nothing but a full version of operating system from
Microsoft.

Looks like HP verified what I said, Thank You!

[SiC17]

Of course they're going to say some shit like that. "Sorry, it won't work. Looks like you have to buy another HP! Hooray for us!" I think it's worth a shot. Worse comes to worse, you have to buy a new version of XP. Just account for that in your spending.

[peliROJO]

I haven't had a personal experience with Reinstall CDsin many years. I build my own and support corporate images. But it just makes sense that HP/Dell/whoever would make the reinstall cd an image or least a tailored version of a MS retail disc. And sure it's a marketing scam. If you can make it difficult for people to build their own then they might buy from you. :) It's all good.

[SiC17]

Sure, and this mantra doesn't stop at HP. Welcome to the wonderful world of marketing, people. I wouldn't say it's all good, but in all actuality, there's nothing we can do about it, right? Again, I think it's worth a shot to use your HD with a new MB. "Expect the worst and hope for the best," right? In the end, you can try to make everything work, and alot of people here can obviously help you (including myself in some cases as I've built my computers for the past several years). It'll take time and effort, but the reward is saving a few bucks and the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Let us know what transpires.