Nowadays most people buy computers we the intention of getting rid of it the moment it disappoints them. We’re sold the idea that a new computer is always better. Unfortunately there are many things wrong with this picture and at CTU we choose to take each individual client and the condition of their computer into consideration before moving forward. Most manufacturers take steps on daily bases trying to lower costs to become more competitive. Other than lower prices this translates into steady decline in product quality. In other words 8 out of 10 computers bought as a replacement today are built with cheaper and less durable hardware than the computer they’re replacing plus they come with more and more useless trial software. Our most popular memory upgrade alone is enough to extend the lifespan of 7 out of 10 computers we service. Simple upgrades allow most people to save money on buying another computer, save time shopping around for one, save them from the hassle of going through the process of reinstalling programs and configuring settings, save them the headache of restoring documents, music, pictures, and other personal files. Last but not the least upgrades is a way of going green, it helps keeping the old computers away from landfills.

CTU Upgrade Procedure:

Upon free diagnostics we determine the available hardware as well as software upgrade options. We consider many factors when presenting you with the upgrade options primarily your needs and the cost of services. We always give our clients multiple options giving them a chance to choose. Upon your approval we start the upgrade process. Most hardware is available at our service center with an exception of a few which we order the same day. Every piece of hardware we choose as part of an upgrade or replacement comes from reputable manufacturers. They go through compatibility testing as well as stress testing inside your computer prior to job completion. Once your machine is ready we call you to schedule for your pick-up.

Below you will find a quick list of our upgrade services. Every case is unique so is every upgrade therefore the list below does not include every upgrade service we perform at CTU but should help give you an idea. Stop by today with your computer today so we can take a look and turn it into your perfect match (besides your significant other of course).

List of Upgrades Include:

• Memory (1)
• Processor (2)
• Hard Drive (3)
• Motherboard (4)
• Computer Case (5)
• Graphics Adapter (6)
• Operating System (7)

1-Memory is the first piece of hardware on the list when trying the increase computer speed and performance. Most people confuse memory or running low on memory with storage but actually this piece of hardware does not store any of our files instead it provides the system with a space to run applications and open files. When computer does not have sufficient memory it relies on our hard disk drive which has much slower read/write rate causing process to stall and at times become non-responsive. Simple memory upgrade resolves most of the speed and performance related issues by providing the computer with adequate space to perform at its peak.

2-Processor just like its name processes every tiny bit of command to give us the big picture like loading up our favorite desktop picture, running our virus protection, and taking us to our favorite website for shopping. After memory, processor plays the second important role on performance on a computer. Since it’s one of the more expensive components of every computer and manufacturers along with system builders try to lower costs today we have computer systems with slimmed down and more reasonable versions of the processors like Intel’s Celeron & AMD’s Sempron. Depending on many factors upgrading the system processor may be possible and necessary. Our expert service team members have all the tools they need at their disposal to check your processing power as well as make assessments on your system board’s compatibility with a hardware upgrade.

3-Most computer users of 10+ have real funny stories like how 1GB was massive and impossible to fill-up. Storage is getting cheaper by day and it’s being more and more wanted for those storing multimedia content and large files. We have many ways of providing you with extra storage including the system drive imaging which does the magic of expanding the empty space of your primary disk drive. We also provide assistance with RAID setups (mirrored disk drives for data redundancy, split disk drives for increased performance, and etc). Since all of our digital life including our operating systems live inside our hard drive, drive selection, installation, and maintenance becomes crucial in avoiding catastrophes.

4-System boards are rarely upgraded but there are occasions when they’re necessary. Usually when a necessary upgrade such as graphics adapter or processor becomes impossible due to system board incompatibilities, we are able swap motherboards not only making upgrades possible but also binging new features as well as more compatibility to the computer system.

5-Surprisingly enough we upgrade quite a few computer cases. Reasons vary from the size of them to poor ventilation. We have many beautiful cases with silent but very effective airflow technology. We can take a look at your hardware and recommend a replacement system case.

6-Advanced graphics adapters used to cater to gamers only. Today with the user interfaces like the Aero on Windows 7, and hardware accelerator support bundled with programs like Adobe’s PhotoShop, it becomes a necessity for the most. ATI & nVidia being the 2 major graphics chip builders offer a load of different products ranging from $40 to $900. We first check the system compatibility with the list of products available than suggest best fit to meet your needs.

7-Last item on the list actually carries the most importance when it comes to computing today, the operating system. Apple and Microsoft’s war benefits us, the consumer who gets our hands on more stable, functional, and user friendly operating systems with (hopefully) every release. Products like Microsoft’s Windows 7 & Apple’s Snow Leopard bring ground breaking advancements to computing today. Most people assume it’s time to buy a new computer when a new operating system surfaces or they are concerned with the possibility of bugs. In reality with minor hardware upgrades like more RAM or sometimes with no hardware upgrades at all computers are ready for the challenge. Our team gets their hands on beta versions of the new operating systems prior to their release and have a platform to discuss their findings with other IT professionals. Give us a call and let our trained team members and questions you may have.