HeavyG

I am sitting here typing this blog on my newly revived Averatec 4155 notebook PC. I must admit that this journey has been one of blood, sweat, and tears. My last update left me unsure on which OS I wanted to run on this machine. I attempted to run Windows 7, but the lack of driver support and Aero features left me wanting to go back to Windows XP or Windows Vista.

http://www.teamplayergaming.com/entr...The-Install%29

Due to licensing availability and driver support, I decided to go with Windows Vista Business 32 bit operating system. Similar to Windows 7, Averatec did not provide any drivers to download from the TriGem site, forcing me to go on the "driver ...

While I was waiting on my slightly used CPU upgrade to arrive, I decided it was time to nuke the existing drive and get it ready for the operating system install. I decided I would try Windows 7 Professional due to the speedy install time, ease of setup, and to see how much this little machine can handle. A would like to get both qualitative and quantitative data before deciding if I should downgrade the operating system back to Windows XP.

For those that are unsure of the build, reference the following link: http://www.teamplayergaming.com/entr...-4155-Part-One

The Windows 7 Professional installation went well... right up to the point where Windows could not load any of my network ...

There has been this 4.3lb brick sitting in my closet for the past two years. No, I am not referring to a SCSI hard drive. I am referring to my old Avaratec 4100 series notebook. I call it a brick, not because it doesn't work, but because it might as well not work. The keyboard is missing a key, there is a broken USB port, the battery is toast, and the screen bezel has a crack in it. Here is a link to the exact model and my current specs so you can get a good idea.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...037R-_-Product

Model: Averatec AV4155-EH1
Screen Size: 13.3"
CPU: AMD Turion MT-30 (1.6 GHz) - 25w
Memory: 1.2GB PC2700 ...

It wasn't until I posted in Kraker Jak's power supply thread that I realized how important brand names mean to some PC enthusiasts. I am not referring to life long wars between nVidia vs ATI or Intel vs AMD, but more around the components that are not as crucial. I would hate to be new to PC building and having to select components for the first time. Deciding on things like cases and power supplies, you can literally get fatigued by the time you are finished researching all available options. I wouldn't even know where to begin!

When shopping for a new case, what should a PC building "newb" really look for? Functionality? Cooling? Space? Flashy looks? If you think about it, even the more expensive cases are ...

So I got to thinking the other day. Upgrading my gaming computer used to be a ritual that happened every 2 years with a yearly graphics card upgrade. But every two years, from top to bottom, I would have a new gaming machine. This was partly due to the development of games always being one or two steps ahead the development of hardware. These $500-$1000 upgrades every two years were always worth it as it allowed me to play the latest and greatest games, such as Quake, Max Payne, Command & Conquer Generals, Half Life 2, and Crysis.

Things are different now. They are different, and I am not sure if it is a "good" different, or if it is a "bad" different. My current gaming rig might have one hell of ...