I have a Upgrade HP a6130n GC671AA-ABA

[mfbrin]

I have a HP a6130n GC671AA-ABA and would like to speed up the system.  I am running Windows 7 Ultimate and 6GB RAM.  IT has the AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 5000+.  It is running slow.  I use it primarily for work-related activities and no gaming.  Sometimes, I can have 4 or 5 programs running.  Short of re-installing the operating system, I have cleaned out all unused programs, and optimized the disk.  Is it possible to speed up the CPU?  Would a faster videocard be helpful?  Or should I just get a new system?  Thanks,

Mitchell

[old_geekster]

Mitchell, welcome to the forum.

You can upgrade to a discrete video card.  This would definitely improve system performance.  However, check the wattage of the existing power supply unit (PSU).  I believe that it is no more than  300W.  Most newer mid-level cards require a minimum of 400W to operate properly.  If you upgrade both the cost would be approximately $250.

Also, a thorough cleaning could improve performance.  Dust causes heat which can slow a computer.

Now, with all.of that said, you would be blown away by the speed of a new computer that would cost $1000 (less monitor).  New technology is amazing.  Your computer is 5 years old.

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.

[mfbrin]

Thanks for this.  I really appreciate it.  I guess the question is whether I could simply drop my hard disks into the new computer, or would I be best to start with a vanilla system.  

Also, is there a recommendation on the video-card, or should I just ask the salesperson at Best Buy?

Thanks,

Mitchell

[mfbrin]

sorry...one other question.  Do you believe that I can upgrade the CPU?  Thanks, Mitchell

[lasvegaswireman]

YES, you can upgrade the CPU... BUT based on the fact that your current CPU is an Athlon 64 X2 5000+ @ 2400MHz and the best CPU you can install is a Athlon 64 X2 5600+ @ 2600MHz... you wont notice much of an improvement, if any.