IT Support: Cost of Maintaining an Old Computer
Posted by Solutions Center on Thu, Apr 15, 2010
A recent flyer I received from HP indicated on it that "When it comes to technology, older definitely isn't wiser." That got me to thinking - when should you replace computers and is there a way to keep them running longer?
According to the flyer, PCs older than 3 years can experience a number of issues, such as 1.) 5x more power supply failures, 2.) 3.5x more software crashes, and 3.) 1.6x more virus attacks. When you add up all the costs for purchasing parts and time spent fixing the computer, is it really worth it?
Now, if you are like me, I like holding on to things until I can't fix them anymore, because either I can't get parts for it any more or it just simply is not fixable (ever have a laptop just not turn on, even after replacing the battery)? Being an IT Professional working for an IT Managed Services company, I have the experience to know when to call it quits and just "pony up the dough". However, how much time is spent fixing computers that I could be spending with my wife and daughter?
Trust me, while working in IT Support I've seen it first hand; older computers definitely take a lot more TLC to keep them going, so it really comes down to a question: What is more important to you - the dollars in your wallet or how much time you have for friends and family? Many times you have to have a delicate balance because you want to spend more time with friends and family but don't have the money to spend on a new system. Other times, you have a little extra and can afford a new system which will give you those precious hours that you cannot reclaim.
In the business world, a general rule of thumb for workstation replacement is every three years. Now does this mean that you can't have a system run for 5 or 6 years? Absolutely not, but you are going to spend more time keeping it running as best as possible then you would with a new computer. Keep in mind that a new system doesn't mean you won't have problems, but you are more likely to be able to spending time on things you want then on fixing a broken computer.
If you'd like your technology evaluated to find out if you need to upgrade, call Trigon today for your FREE IT Consultation - 1-888-494-TRIGON.
