Inspecting a Used Computer Before You Buy It

Another component to inspect is the central processing unit (CPU). It is possible for the CPU to freeze. Overheating can cause a CPU to freeze. Computer’s have a fan and heat sink to keep the CPU from overheating but fans can wear out and dust build up can keep them from operating properly.  It is fairly easy to check if the fan is functioning properly by listening to it and looking for excessive dust. An even, low pitched hum is the sound of a fan operating properly. A fan that is not working properly will often emit an uneven sound in volume or tone.

If the computer includes a monitor is should be inspected too. A monitor that is close to failing will often have dull colors and will not be crisp. A fluttering picture and any easily discernible noise are worthy of concern as well. The health of a monitor is even more important if the computer has a USB TV tuner.

Checking a computer’s operating system is also important. Over time operating systems can slow down due to programs being added and deleted from the system. A computer’s registry can slow a computer down as programs that are added and deleted from the computer make changes to the registry. More most people about the only way to inspect a computer’s operating system is to reboot is several times. It should not take and excessive amount of time to boot up. Reformatting the hard drive and re-installing the operating system is the best way to improve the performance of a used computer.

Any other hardware should also be inspected. This includes, devises like CD or DVD drives, the drawers should open and close smoothing and you should be able to read data from a disc and if they are writable drives you should be able to write to a disc. Other items that should be inspected are the USB TV tuner, mouse and keyboard.