Computer died(need opinion about salvaging)

[jasong]

Guys, my computer is dead, but I'm sure it has some good parts. How much do you think it would cost to simply find out what works and what doesn't so I can sell the parts? (since my dad is refusing to help me build a new one)

I need some opinions.

[PS2pcGAMER]

Could you be more specific as to the problems? Does the computer beep when turning on? Having you been working on the inside of it? We might be able to give you a better idea what is wrong if you'd detail everything you can about the problem.

[jasong]

Originally posted by PS2pcGAMER
Could you be more specific as to the problems? Does the computer beep when turning on? Having you been working on the inside of it? We might be able to give you a better idea what is wrong if you'd detail everything you can about the problem.
Bok already volunteered to sell me some parts that he might be willing to put in for me. As to the precise problem, I'm thinking it's the motherboard or cpu. It processes fine, but the thin veil of smoke it generates in my room scares me slightly, which is the reason I've declared it dead until it can be looked at.

[LAURENU2]

It Smokes MMM Now there is a oddity A computer that causes cancer while looking for a cure for it :rotfl: :jester: :rotfl:

[jasong]

Maybe you guys can help me make this decision:

All I really know is that my computer(not my primary, just a DCer) smokes when it's turned on and refuses to even start an LLR test properly. The hard drive works, I know this because my dad reformatted it and put it in what is now my K6(My Windows XP chicanery has caught up to me and my dad, the website refused to verify my Windows XP install, so I either have to start over every thirty days or put in my legal Windows 2000. My priority after getting a new computer is to have two LEGAL copies of Windows XP, maybe both Professional)

Bok has volunteered to help me, but my dad advises me to save my money and recommended a $300 E-machine.

Here are the facts if I decide to use Bok:

1) I can afford to pay $200 upfront around the beginning of next month(I would PREFER to pay $40 per month if it gets to be more than that[after the initial $200], even that would stretch me thin unless I can get a job)

2)Assumed minimum $35 S/H combined for both ways, assuming we use USPS and allow 4-7 days.

3) Labor, which unfortunately would include diagnosing a hardware problem(my dad thinks it's a bad power supply, but he hasn't checked) I would like to pay a minimum of $20 for this, especially since Bok isn't sure what he'd receive if I sent it to him. I'm assuming my dad's putting the hard drive back in. Btw, Bok, it would probably be best, unless you know something I don't, to troubleshoot in Linux to avoid my 30-day problem. If it's helpful, I could install Windows 2000, so you won't have to worry.

Here are the basic parts:

10-15GB hard drive
case(which might be the whole problem, specifically the power supply)
Athlon cpu(1.5GHz)
DVD ROM drive and no disk drive

There's probably some other stuff I'm unaware of, like how it connects to the network. Basically, it's a working computer that generates smog.

Basically, I'm asking for an opinion as to whether I should use Bok or keep saving my money for a brand new computer.

--------------------------------------

Edit: I'm considering the idea of a computer rental. I definitely intend to have a job in the next 3 months and my references are fairly good. The only problem I could see would be dealing with the contract for the computer.(I'm going to go surf Best Buy.

[Bok]

Who said anything about labor fees???? I certainly didn't mention anything of the sort.

I offered to give you a full machine for $180,then I also offered to look at your machine if you sent it to utilize any good parts, thereby reducing the cost. It would only cost you the extra shipping to get it to me.

We went so far as for me to give you my address, then you changed your mind. I do not have the time for yes/no/yes/no, with everything happening in my life right now (impending daughter, very busy with work), so I'm afraid it's just not an option right now..

Bok

[jasong]

Originally posted by Bok
Who said anything about labor fees???? I certainly didn't mention anything of the sort.

I offered to give you a full machine for $180,then I also offered to look at your machine if you sent it to utilize any good parts, thereby reducing the cost. It would only cost you the extra shipping to get it to me.

We went so far as for me to give you my address, then you changed your mind. I do not have the time for yes/no/yes/no, with everything happening in my life right now (impending daughter, very busy with work), so I'm afraid it's just not an option right now..

Bok Okay, I apologize, I'm not meaning to make anybody unhappy. The two things that jumped out at me were basically,"I'm a pauper and this is a major decision." and "Bok deserves compensation." I didn't mean to cause problems.

That being said, I'd like to put forth the following two computers for examination:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7438374&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat60700050016&id=1124431830387

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7438686&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat60700050016&id=1125464966305

My sleep machine adventure should be under control within the next 1.5 months at most, which gives me about 2-3 months leeway to get a job before interest payments. The best situation, of course, would be for me to scrimp and save, get a job, scrimp and save some more, and finally pay it off before interest payments start up.

[LAURENU2]

And here are some cheper systems if you need a smaller buget
this one comes with a copy of XP
http://www.netaffilia.com/ad/electronics/frys/i/2005/09/23/12645.html
Or a 2200 for 159.00 W/OS
http://shop1.outpost.com/product/4199563?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

[jasong]

Originally posted by LAURENU2
And here are some cheper systems if you need a smaller buget
this one comes with a copy of XP
http://www.netaffilia.com/ad/electronics/frys/i/2005/09/23/12645.html
Or a 2200 for 159.00 W/OS
http://shop1.outpost.com/product/4199563?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
The first would be good for prime-finding "habit" in Riesel Sieve, but I could get the second one RIGHT NOW without suffering unduly.

Hmmmmmmmmmmm...

Edit: I just noticed the second one is Linux, perfect for me to learn on before I permanently make the switch. I'm going to try to figure out how long these offers will last.

Edit 2:Is it possible to request a Linux deal on a configuration listed as Windows. I figure I could ask someone to cut the price $50-$60. What do you think?

Edit: I'm starting a new topic about buying a Linux box.