When to buy a new computer:

1.       If you have the money…Money to burn.  You need to buy a new computer about every year.  Since none of us have money to burn please disregard this.

2.       You only need to buy a new computer when your old one quits doing what you need.  My computer at home is 6 years old and does everything I need it to.  Remember if you buy a new computer it will be different from what you already have.  That means learning how to use the new one.

You may want to consider an upgrade instead of replacing the computer.  RAM is the single most beneficial improvement you can do to your computer.  Here are instructions on checking your RAM.

1. Find the icon named "My Computer."

2. Right click on the icon named "My Computer.

3. A menu with several options should appear.  Click on properties.  Your RAM will be listed at the bottom.  You should have a minimum of 256 mb.  If the number is 6 digits long you should have 256,000 kb.  If you have anything lower than this try an upgrade instead of a new computer.