How to replace your motherboard
Do you really need that replacement?
By Rick Broida | PC World | Published: 12:30, 13 January 2011
A reader by the awesome name of Rick told me the motherboard died in his eMachines T2893 desktop. His question: where to find a replacement, or, better yet, an upgrade?
A quick Google search (ahem) revealed a motherboard replacement, complete with CPU and fan, for $109.95 (£69). That's not a bad price, but based on what I've learned about the T2893, I think it's time to consider a different kind of upgrade. Namely, an entirely new system.
According to the specs I found on eMachines' website, I'm guessing your T2893 is 7-10 years old. It has a Celeron processor, 512MB of RAM and an 80GB hard drive. Your actual configuration may vary, or perhaps you've upgraded certain components over the years, but trust me when I say this: it's time for a new (or at least newer) PC.
It's not that replacing a motherboard is terribly difficult (though it can be if you're not accustomed to monkeying around inside a PC case). But when you're done, you'll be left with the same slow, out-of-date machine you have now.
My advice: look for deals on refurbished desktops. I've seen some nicely equipped systems (that include Windows 7) for as low as $279. If you don't mind used gear, you might find an even better deal on eBay or Craigslist.
There are other considerations, of course, but I'd think twice about putting time and money into a system as old as yours.
