Computer Hardware - Guide to the PC Hardware

The CPU is the part of a computer that controls the operation of the computer. All arithmetic and logical operations, decoding of instructions and the execution of instructions are performed by the CPU. Early computers used several chips to handle the task. Some functions are still handled by support chips, which are often referred to collectively as a chip set.

Get information about clock speed and FSB Speed of Intel Pentium series processors.

Intel Pentium

Clock Speed: 60-166 MHz
FSB Speed: 33-66 MHz
L1 Cache: 16 KB
Introduction: 1993
Transistors: 3.3 Million
Package: PGA
Socket: Socket 7

Intel Pentium Pro

Clock Speed: 150-200 MHz
FSB Speed: 50-66 MHz
L1 Cache: 256 KB
L2 Cache: 256 KB - 1 MB
Introduction: 1995
Transistors: 5.5 Million
Package: PGA
Socket: Socket 8

Intel Pentium-MMX

Clock Speed: 133-166 MHz
FSB Speed: 66 MHz
L1 Cache: 32 KB
Introduction: 1996
Transistors: 4.5 Million
Package: PGA
Socket: Socket 7

Intel Pentium II

Clock Speed: 233-450 MHz
FSB Speed: 66-100 MHz
L1 Cache: 32 KB
L2 Cache: 512 KB
Introduction: 1997
Transistors: 7.5 Million
Package: SEC
Socket: Slot 1

Intel Pentium Xeon

Clock Speed: 400 MHz-3.06 GHz
FSB Speed: 100-533MHz
L1 Cache: 8-32 KB
L2 Cache: 256 KB-2 MB
L3 Cache: 0-1 MB
Introduction: 1998
Transistors: 7.5 - 140 Million
Package: SEC and PGA
Socket: Slot 2 , Socket 603 and Socket 604

Pentium Celeron

Clock Speed: 850 MHz-2.4 GHz
FSB Speed: 66-400 MHz
L1 Cache: 8-32 KB
L2 Cache: 256-512 KB
Introduction: 1998
Transistors: 7.5 - 44 Million
Package: SEC and PGA
Socket: Slot 1, Socket 370 and Socket 478

Pentium III

Clock Speed: 450MHz - 1.33GHz
FSB Speed: 100-133MHz
L1 Cache: 32KB
L2 Cache: 256-512 KB
Introduction: 1999
Transistors: 9.5 - 28 Million
Package: SEC and PGA
Socket: Slot 1 and Socket 370

Pentium 4

Clock Speed: 1.3-3.06GHz
FSB Speed: 400-800MHz
L1 Cache: 8 KB
L2 Cache: 256 - 512 MB
Introduction: 2000
Transistors:
Package: PGA
Socket: Socket 423 and Socket 478

http://www.Freetechexams.com provides free practice tests and study guides for A+ and Network+ Certifications.

Since the computer revolution which occurred several decades ago where storage capacity and processing power skyrocketed, computers are still evolving. According to Moore’s Law, computer power doubles every 18 months and the cost goes down by half. No wonder computers have become so cheap these days.

Many people fail to understand several myths that exist regarding CPUs. Years ago no one heard of two-core central processing units. But today they are very common. A multi core processor will process information faster since it can run two applications on different cores as opposed to normal computer processor.

At the same time in some instances an Intel 1.5GHz Duo Processor, that Is with two cores, will not work faster then an Intel 3GHz processor. This occurs when the user doesn’t run more than one applications or when the software is designed not to take advantage of two-core technology.

So, generally, a two-core processor, an example given above, will not always work faster than a one core processor. If however the application is designed or programmed to take advantage of duo core technology, then this application would run faster as opposed to if it were run on a normal processor.

Second misunderstanding about CPUs is that their speed doesn’t matter. Some argue that as long as you have a modern video card and decent amount of RAM, CPU power will not matter. This is not true. The faster processor you have, the faster applications will work, and higher RAM and video card will contribute to that process.

In overall terms, CPU is the most important part of computer that is the “brain” of your computer.

Sami Johnson is the creator of http://www.expertset.com - Get more hardware news from http://www.expertset.com

If the decision is to be an internal hard drive, then a little research is required. The first thing you will need to do is to find out what kind of extra hard drive is required.

To find this out you will have to either check out the specifications in your computers manual. Or you can open up the case and take a look inside.

Before you enter into the workings of the computer, you must be aware of the dangers of static. One of the ways to reduce the risk would be to wear an anti static wristband.

Most machines only have one hard drive, therefore it should be fairly easy to add another.

The cable system is very important when adding an extra hard drive to the computer. There are two common cable systems used to connect drives to the motherboard. One system includes the IDE drives, which are also known as PATA or Parallel ATA. These cables are flat or thick and are as wide as your finger.

The other system has the SATA drives or the Serial ATA drives. For these drives the cables are thin and are about the diameter of a pencil.

The common and mass-market computers will generally have the PATA or the SATA drives. Although is also possible that your computer has SCSI hard drives, in which case you will need SCSI cables.

If your machine already has two drives, then it becomes a little difficult to install a third one. it is much simpler to add an external drive.

An external enclosure system is probably the easiest way to add an extra hard drive to your computer. The system is fairly simple here a standard hard drive is enclosed within a desk-friendly case and then plugged into your computer usually via USB. You only have to format your new hard drive and it immediately registers as an extra hard drive on your computer. Now you can perform normal actions like adding, changing, creating and deleting files.

The biggest advantage of an external enclosure system is that it is possible to change the extra hard drive without any trouble if you need even more space. You can also transfer the hard drive to another computer. The biggest advantage is that you don’t even need to open up the old machine and it also removes the risk of static.

I hope this article was of interest.

Should you need further information please visit my lens at.

http://www.squidoo.com/adding-an-extra-hard-drive

If you are having computer problems and wondering what to do about them, you may find yourself needing to call tech support to see if they can help you work it out. The only problem with this is that calling tech support can be really frustrating for many reasons.

Often times you are left on hold for longer than necessary. In addition to this, there is the infuriating system that requires you to press one for this and press two for that. Or, there’s is the person on the other line that talks to you like you are some kind of computer genius, and you have no idea what he or she is talking about.

Of course, all calls in to tech support aren’t always this painful, but if you know a few tips for troubleshooting some of the basic repair issues that tech support would walk you through anyway, why not try them first?

1. Reboot your computer.

Many times when your computer is giving you a problem, rebooting can miraculously cure whatever is ailing it. If this is not the case, and you keep receiving the same error message as before, you will want to write this down, just in case you do wind up needing to call tech support.

2. Consider the power source.

A very simple to solve problem is often related to power. It can be easily fixed if for some reason some of you cables or equipment was accidentally unplugged. Always double check to see that everything that needs to be plugged in is.

3. Reinstall the drivers.

Sometimes by reinstalling Windows drivers, you can also repair your computer issues yourself. If you are under the impression that you computer issues are hardware related, you may have encountered corrupted drivers. If so, this install may be what you need.

These are some of the basic things to consider before you call tech support. They are all do it yourself solutions, and should help you out in a pinch. If you think that there is something more serious going on, beyond the scope of these tips, then by all means get yourself some outside help.

Fred is a computer repair technician with Atlanta Computer Repair company Nerds Next Door. If you have any questions, or would like information about computer repairs in Atlanta, visit our website at http://www.AtlantaComputerRepairs.net

You can find just about anything by doing a search online these days. Computer repair is no different. The only problem is knowing which computer repair company to choose when there are so many sites listed for doing this type of service.

And what about the computer repair service that is an individual who says that they repair computers. Can you trust them? Their prices are usually less than the larger computer repair service companies. And for that reason, if for no other, these individuals look like an attractive option to get help with your computer.

Basically, the good news is, if you do your homework, you can definitely go with the more affordable, smaller repair company or individual. You will simply need to ensure that some basic service features are in place.

For example, you will want to know what the person’s experience is and whether or not they have any certifications. You will want to know who it is that you can talk to about giving you feedback on the repair service that you are considering using. You can also look the company or individual up on the Better Business Bureau in your area, and see what types of comments, if any that you can find there.

If you find a service that you like and the fees sound right, be sure to get a guarantee for your fees. For example, if you find an individual that quotes you a rate of $25 an hour, and she says that she can be done with your computer in 2 - 3 hours, what happens if she later says it actually took her six or seven hours to get done?

Another thing to make sure of is that there is an understanding that if your computer does not get fixed, then you will not pay for it. This guarantee, has also been called a “No Fix No Fee” guarantee, especially for repair persons that charge by the service and not by the hour.

Fred is a computer repair technician with Atlanta Computer Repair company Nerds Next Door. If you have any questions, or would like information about computer repairs in Atlanta, visit our website at http://www.AtlantaComputerRepairs.net

If you’re thinking about buying a computer in the future, you have a lot of options. You can decide between desktops and laptops. There are also all types of fancy peripherals out there to help you optimize your computer use.

But, what you may or may not have considered in your thoughts about what type of computer to buy is the new all in one type of computer. The all in one computer does just what the name suggests, it combines all of the major components that you would need to get the most out of your computer use in to one convenient piece.

So, instead of having a space consuming computer tower and a monitor, you would have instead a sleek monitor with all of the inner components of your computer included. This includes your computer’s hard drive, processor, sound card, and graphics card.

Sytylish and compact looking, these all in one computers are usually slim, flat panel LCD monitors. No one can deny that enhancing style while saving space can make something like this type of computer a winning choice.

It is good to keep in mind though, that although you will be saving desk space, at this time, you aren’t able to upgrade or customize some of its capabilities. Some of these capabilities include your computer’s video performance, which means that if you are a pretty serious gamer, you probably will not be able to play any of your extremely intense 3D games on it.

Another thing to consider is pricing. At this time, all in one computers tend to be a little more expensive than your conventional computer that you are used to using. But, as with most things, this will more than likely change over time. Right now, you can expect to pay about three times as much for this machine.

So with all of that in mind, depending on your computing needs, you may just want to consider the all in one computer when evaluating your choices. You will definitely save space, considerably lessen wire clutter, and add a stylish touch to your computer space.

Fred is a computer repair technician with Atlanta Computer Repair company Nerds Next Door. If you have any questions, or would like information about computer repairs in Atlanta, visit our website at http://www.AtlantaComputerRepairs.net

When you have the new PC components items available, next step is to Assemble the PC together. This is the most interesting part and also the most rewarding part when your system is up and running, all credits to Yourself!!

Essential Tools required:

1) A screwdriver (Cross-shaped)

Optional Recommended Items:

1) Torchlight (To illuminate hard to see areas)

2) Antistatic wrist strap (To discharge of any static charges)

Let’s start now. Firstly, discharge yourself of any static charges by touching the metal casing or attaching the other side of the antistatic wrist strap to the metal casing.

1) Open the case

2) Install the motherboard

Find the motherboard standoffs that should have come with the case. Insert the I/O Shield that came with your motherboard. Now locate the screw holes on your motherboard and find the corresponding holes on the motherboard plate (or tray) in the case. Put a standoff in each of these holes on the tray and position the motherboard so that you can see the holes in the top of the standoffs through the screw holes in the motherboard. Now fasten a screw through each of the motherboard screw holes into the standoffs underneath. These screws should be snug but not tight. With the motherboard in, we are now able to start adding in other components.

3) Install the CPU.

As I mentioned earlier, the processor (CPU) and motherboard go hand-in-hand, so you should spend some time planning and researching what you really desires and buy compatible CPU / motherboard components, just like the importance of buying the right shoe size for yourself. Given that this is a minimum system upgrade, you are saving up quite a bit through reusing other components; I suggest you build a better performing system so that it can serve you for several years to come.

Before start, please read the manual provided with the motherboard/CPU carefully, understand the different parts, and the installation diagrams before proceeding. Then again, it is not very difficult with only 3 simple steps to success.

1st step to success: Install the CPU

I will be using Intel Socket 775 as illustration as it is the latest socket used so far.

-Remove the protective socket on the new socket protecting the pins

-Open the lever and lift up the metal flap so as to install the CPU

-While carefully holding the CPU at the edges, look for the notch in the corner and match it up with the socket. Slowly lay down the CPU in the socket, before lowering the metal flap, and closing the socket lever to secure the CPU.

2nd step to success: Install the CPU heatsink

If you like to go to a cool place to enjoy some aircon when you are hot, the same can be said of the CPU which you have just installed. We need to dissipate the high heat generated by the CPU so that it would not overheat and fry.

-I am recommending getting hold of some thermal paste which you can apply evenly on the CPU surface for better heat conductivity and dissipation. (To note: Intel® boxed processor already come with their integrated thermal solutions, and so does not need extra efforts)

-Align heat sink onto the Socket containing the CPU, with the fan cable orientated closest to fan power connector, and check for any entanglement.

-Press down on fastener caps with thumb to install and lock. Repeat with the other 3 fasteners.

3rd step to success: Power up the heat sink

This is done by connecting the fan cable from step 2 to the CPU_FAN connector located on the motherboard, which is located very close to the CPU. Tie up excess cable to prevent interference with fan operation or other components.

Congrats, by the time you finished this, the rest should be a breeze already =)

4) Install the Memory

With a new motherboard and faster processor, we will then need more RAM (random access memory) to enable and facilitate this faster performance. Again, you should spend some time planning and researching on memory which is compatible with the new CPU and motherboard you have installed to bring out the best overall performance. To install the RAM modules, you need to unfasten the clips located on each side of the memory slot. Align the RAM module in the socket, such as to match the indent located on the memory chip and the memory slot, for the right facing direction. Push down on the memory module until both clips refasten and a click sound is heard. To change memory, simply press down the both clips at the same time, and the RAM will come out easily.

TIP: Start adding RAM at the slot labeled “Bank 0″ or “DIMM 1″. If you don’t, the system will think there is no memory available and wont boot.

TIP:For newer systems supporting hyper treading technology, you are encouraged to use the dual channel memory functionality by placing 2 sticks of the same memory on alternate slots (i.e.: slot 1 & 3 or Slot 2 & 4, often differentiated by color as well. ) This has been proven to enhance the performance as well.

After installing the new motherboard / CPU, and memory, you are already DONE installing the New essential items you have bought. YEAH!! Now that is left is to migrate the remaining items from the old pc to your “Brand New” PC. =)

5) Install the Power Supply

There will be a bracket at the top of the case where you can mount the power supply, and secure the power supply using screws. The power supply will consists of the following connectors: ATX power connector, ATX_12V connector, IDE power connector, and FDD power connector. Look for the 20 or 24 pin ATX power connector, and plug it into the motherboard allocated power slot. There may also be an additional four or eight pin power lead on the motherboard that needs to be plugged in, which is usually located near the processor socket. Do double confirm with the motherboard manual for details.

TIP: You might want to consider getting a new power supply which rating is at least 300W so as to support any future upgrades you have in mind.

TIP: You need to select the right power supply settings (115v or 220v) depending on your country settings. For newer power supplies, it is equipped with automatic detection, so that will not be an issue at all.

6) Install the Floppy drives/Hard-disks/DVD writers

Floppy disks, Harddisks and DVD ROM/writers communicate with the CPU through data cables commonly called FDD/IDE cables, although newer harddisks now connect via SATA cables for faster data communications.

Note: FDD Cable for floppy disk drives appears smaller and has fewer wires.

Note: Using multiple hard disks If you have intention on using multiple hard disks, you must adjust the settings on the multiple disks to inform the computer system which is the main disk and the other supporting/additional disks. If not done properly, the system can get confused, and the disk may not boot at all. Do read the simple instructions as shown on the harddisk surface for the right way to place the jumpers so as to distinguish between the master drive (main operating system) and the slave drives (other files/documents). This instruction varies across different harddisk manufacturers. This configuration should be done before inserting the IDE cables.

First, remove the front casing of the computer, and remove the 5.25″ plate so as to expose the front of the DVD drives later. Similarly do it for the floppy drive plate. Insert the IDE cables into the floppy drive/ harddisk/ DVD data connector noting the orientation of the notch in the centre, so as to insert in the right directions. The remaining connector is to be connected to the motherboard. Next, to power up the drives by plugging in the 4 pin molex power connector from the power supply in step 5 into each hard drive and optical drive. For the floppy drive, the power plug is also 4 pins in a row but significantly smaller than that of the hard disk. Need to take note of the power connector orientation as well.

Final securing all disks and optical drives with screws before securing back the front casing cover.

TIP: Recommend that the IDE hard disk be connected to the IDE 1 connector and the optical devices connect to the IDE 2 connector. Maximum of 2 IDE devices per IDE connector. If using multiple IDE hard drives, you should enter BIOS later on and set their boot sequence accordingly.

7) Install the Video Card

For older motherboards, we typically see AGP video card being used, which will be installed onto the AGP socket, which is often brown in color. For newer systems, PCI Express video cards are more commonly used due to better data transfer performance and better resolution performance. Both AGP and PCI Express slots can be identified easily, and is usually located adjacent to the CPU unit.

Now, insert the card into the slot with some force, and check that it is fully inserted with no protruding edges, before screwing it in at the top of the metal bracket. If it has a power connector, connect it with a 4-pin molex connector.
Remaining Internal Connections

-Connect the audio cable from the DVD to the motherboard CD_IN connector (if required)

-Connect the power/reset buttons, and signal indicators (those external blinking lights) to the F_Panel connector on the motherboard. (i.e: Power indicator, hardware indicator, internal speaker, etc…). Read individual motherboard manual for clearer inserting of these signal connectors.

-Double check on proper power connection to all hardware components

- (Optional) Install extra items such as front mounted USB, firewire and/or sound ports.

At this point We are 90% done with our DIY PC Assembly already !! Do not put back the casing covers as yet.

9) Final External Connections

-Connect back the outer devices including items like

a) Keyboard

b) Mouse

c) Monitor

d) Printer / Scanners

e) Speakers

f) External power supply cable

10) Bring on the POWER!!

This brings us to the last stage of the PC assembly process. If you have done everything right, now is the time to sit back and savor the fruit of success.

With the casing still open, and all external peripherals connected, turn on the computer and observe for any abnormality such as fan not spinning, or beeps alarms from the PC. If so, turn off the power and spend some time checking through the connections, and also the manual for some tips on troubleshooting.

Well, if you observed no abnormality till far, and you have seen the splash screen from the motherboard, CONGRATULATIONS!! You have succeeded in building your own PC in this PC Assembly DIY guide by flashG.

Originally Written Article here.

The author Jimmy Lee is involved in article writing, publishing, and website design on a freelance basis amid a daytime job as an electrical engineer. His favourite works can be found at http://flashgor.blogspot.com/ and http://www.diypc.wordpress.com/

If your computer is acting up, chances are it may need a new power supply or motherboard.In this article you’ll learn how to replace these parts.

Most computer cases come with a power supply; however, in some cases it is not included, it may be necessary to purchase one separately.

The power supply is a metal box and it supplies low voltage power to the various circuits inside the computer. It also has a fan inside to keep it cool.

The power supply has 4 to 7 connectors that will plug into the mother board and disk drives.Orient the power supply with its fan so that the fan faces the back of the system case, and place into position.

Fasten it to the case with screws using a non-magnetic screwdriver only! You are now ready to install the motherboard, also known as a main or system board.
There are 2 types, depending on what system you want to build.
The AT socket 7 and the ATX module slot 1 each using their own power supply and case.

If you are upgrading your present system you’ll want to make a diagram of all connections before you remove them.

Carefully remove each expansion card from it’s slot, it will be secured by a single screw.
It’s ok to seesaw the card end-to-end slightly to loosen it, but don’t bend the card sideways.
Set the cards on the power supply with paper separating them.
Leave all cables connected.
After making your diagram remove all cables to the motherboard.
Locate and remove all mounting screws.

Now you are ready to install the new motherboard.
Using the hardware that came with your computer case you will mount the motherboard.

Orient the board so that the power supply sockets are facing the back right corner.
Mount brass and plastic standoffs in the case to match the holes in the board.
Secure the motherboard with screws using non-magnetic screwdrivers only!
For an AT style board connect the two power supply cables to the motherboard.
The black wires go in the center next to each other.
Tilt the connectors away from the power supply and align the hooks on the connectors with the space on the sockets between the metal prongs and the back of the sockets.
Tilt connectors toward the power supply until they are vertical and slide them down over the prongs.
For an ATX style you will only have 1 connector.

Your new motherboard comes with disk drive cables; these are the flat Grey cables with a dotted colored edge, usually red. There are cables for a hard disk drive and a floppy disk drive.
The hard disk drive cable is wider than the floppy disk drive cable.
If you are replacing your current motherboard use your original cables.

If you look closely at your motherboard you will notice that all connectors are marked in white lettering.

Insert the wider hard drive cable in to the PRIMARY IDE socket, the colored edge will go near pin # 1.

Insert the floppy drive cable into the floppy disk drive socket, the colored edge will also go near pin # 1.

There are several wires coming from the computer case, these wires lead to the indicator lights and the speaker.

If you are using an ATX case power supply and motherboard you will have an additional wire that’s marked P S for power switch. This wire will plug directly in to the ATX motherboard.

If you’re working with an AT style, plug the lead for the power supply directly into the power switch in the computer case.

The remaining wires are marked on their connectors as follows:

TURBO LED
TURBO SWITCH
SPEAKER
RESET
KEYLOCK
And IDE or HD for HARD DRIVE
These wires connect to their associated sockets on your motherboard.

If You Find This Article Useful, Please Link To It!

Want to learn more about building and upgrading computers?
Pick up a copy of our DVD, “Anyone Can Build Or Upgrade Personal Computers” available at, http://mmrproductions.com/

About The Author;

Manuel Rose is a long time Computer enthusiast, entrepreneur, and video producer.

Is your computer too slow or too old?

Then maybe It’s time for an upgrade!

You may even want to build a new computer.

I am going to show you how you can build and/or upgrade your very own personal computer, at a fraction of what it would cost to purchase a fully assembled system from a leading manufacturer.

I’d like to make some suggestions as to where you can get the necessary parts to build your computer.

Catalog ordering is a very good way to get parts & accessories and in most cases they’ll be friendly knowledgeable people to assist you with your purchase.

Just make sure you deal with a reputable business.

Another great place to go is your local computer show.

Many bargains can be found there especially when you buy with cash.

You can also check out computer & electronic stores.

Wherever you get your computer parts & accessories, make sure you shop around for the best deals and get the manufacturers written warranties.

The tools you will need are 1 (one) Phillips and 2 (two) Flathead non-magnetic screwdrivers.

Before you begin I want to tell you that electronic circuits are static sensitive so there are a few precautions you must observe.

Keep circuit boards in their antistatic bags until they are ready to be installed.

Before handling components discharge your body’s static electric charge by touching a grounded surface.

A good way to do this is to plug the computer case into an outlet and touch any unpainted part of the metal.

When handling circuit boards.

Avoid touching any components on the boards and connectors that plug into the expansion slots.

Hold them by their edges and/or any metal mounting hardware on the circuit board.

Never slide boards over any surface as they can sustain irreversible damage.

Avoid plastic, vinyl, Styrofoam, furs and carpet in your work area.

You should wear a grounding wrist strap.

Make sure all components are at room temperature.

There are a few types of compatible personal computers (also known as PC’s).

They are as follows:

Older models referred to as AT socket 7, and newer ATX slot 1 type models.

The SOCKET 370 is another type which is similar in appearance to the old socket 7 but with speeds in excess of 1 GHZ and beyond.

Make sure you purchase a case, power supply, motherboard and CPU that are compatible with each other.

Ask your sales person to be sure.

OPENING THE CASE.

If you are upgrading your present system make a diagram of the cable connections in the back of the system unit so you can replace them correctly when you are finished.

First you must ground yourself by touching the unpainted metal chassis.

Then unplug the A/C electrical cord and any other cables that may be connected.

By looking at the back of the unit, locate approximately 6 screws on the outer edges and remove them.

Older tower systems have a plastic cover on the back; you will have to pry it off with a screwdriver first to get to the screws.

To remove the cover on tower and mini desktop systems, slide the cover back and up.

On an old desktop system, turn the computer around to face you and slide the cover forward.

Be careful not to catch it onto any cables inside the system.

Set the cover aside, keeping all screws together in a container.

To reassemble, just reverse this procedure after replacing the necessary components.

If You Find This Article Useful, Please Link To It!

Want to learn more about building and upgrading computers?

Pick up a copy of our DVD, “Anyone Can Build Or Upgrade Personal Computers” available at, http://mmrproductions.com/

About The Author;

Manuel Rose is a long time Computer enthusiast, entrepreneur, and video producer.

A while back I wanted to write an e-book about what it takes for the average person or small business owner to setup their own server then create a domain for security and sharing of resources.

I have a nice server and some spare drives so I decide to pull out the ‘good’ drives and put in the spare drives and load it up. All the while doing this I was making screen shotsof my progress. When I was done I removed the experiment drives and inserted the ‘good’ drives. Oppps, I for got that I had changed the SCSI controller. This mistake wiped the ‘good’ drives clean. Yup, lost it all.

Now as a long time Windows System Admin and knowing about virtual computers this did not dawn on me.

In the past I have used Virtual Computers or Virtual Machines (as VM Ware calls them) but before the Core 2 Duo processor running a Virtual Computer or a Virtual Machines on a desktop or a laptop would take all the processing power that even a P4 running at 3 GHz could muster. So it didn’t even cross my mind about using a Virtual Machines to do this experiment.

Since then I have tried two different Virtual Computers, VM Ware and VitrualBox and I am here to tell you that the dual processor setup will run more than one Virtual Machines at the same time with little or no drag on the system resources.

I setup two different Virtual Machine’s one VM Ware and one VirtualBox and ran them both at the same time, I also had my normal desktop items open at the same time. My new computer with a Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz and two gig of memory did not even blink.

Another thing that I like about using a Virtual Machines for testing is if it gets so bad that it blue screens or fails to start you just delete it and create a new Virtual Machines and then back to what you were doing. Or you can do your troubleshooting with the Virtual Machines, have to restart, no problem while it is restarting read an email, surf the web, or do something else.

So if you are a developer, an experimenter, or just want to test out a different Operating System I would suggest you jump on the internet and grab a copy of these programs and stop trashing a perfectly good Operating System installation.

Monte Russell with over 20 years experience, AAS degree, MCSE, CNA, A+, and hardware certificates. The free monthly newsletter at:http://www.diy-computer-repair.com/newsletter-signup.html always intriguing, full of insights about computing. Read more about this article at http://www.diy-computer-repair.com/virtual-computers.html