One common misperception is that you can compare PC performance by comparing megahertz rating or clock speeds. This is like comparing the performance of engines with RPMs instead of horsepower. for example, although a small 4-cylinder engine may operate at high RPMs, it isn’t as powerful as a big V-8 at lower RPMs. That’s why before you buy or upgrade your machine you should be able answer following questions.
When was the last time you actually upgraded your hardware?
Is it worth upgrading your pentiumI/PentiumII PC’s?
Why is your friend’s computer faster than your PC? even though you both bought it from the same vendor with same hardware configuration?
Does micro processor alone contribute to the overall performance of your PC?
Are you aware of the basic architecture of the mother board?
What do you really mean by 512KB/256KB actual cache on motherboard?
What do you mean by level 1(L1) level2(L2) cache?
If all the .28dpi SVGA monitors are same then, why their prices vary?
Do you know the seek time/excess time of your hard disk?
What is the difference between ISA, VESA, AGP& PCI bus?
Do you need expensive 56 kbps modem when you don’t wish to connect to Internet.
Does brand names makes difference to the performance?
Are you happy and satisfied with the limited use of your computer?
Wont you like to see different multimedia and interernet related application?
If network(internet & Intranet) is future how are you connected?
Processor is not the only driving force for the computer. The actual performance of a machine depends on many factors. Like the SIMMS, DIMMS, RIMMS speed and the arcitecture. Lower the seek time of the hard drive better the performance, so always check the seek time of the Harddisk or ask for the RPM of the disk. Higher the RPM faster data output. Check for the upgrade features on the motherboard. How many free slots are avilable. What kind of bios it has. Can the Bios be upgraded etc.