Problem with hardware of Compaq Presario 6171AI desktop PC

[adiarc]

Hi,

I have Compaq Presario 6171 AI desktop PC purchased in Mar'03. Recently there has been a lot of performance degradation in my PC, it has become very slow. Therefore I wanted help in upgrading my PC. Given below is the configuration which I could best find out on my own.

Processor: Intel P4 1.9 GHz
RAM: Samsung 256MB DDR PC2100 CL2.5
Motherboard: Micro Star 6541 (this I'm doubtful as I don't know how to find out manufacturer's name)
Hard Drive: Maxtor 40 GB
OS: Windows XP Home Edition Version 2002 Service Pack 2
Other Info: 16x DVD / 40x CD Writer / 1.44 MB FDD / Modem / 10/100 NIC / Keyboard / Mouse / 17" Colour Monitor / JBL Platinum Speaker system
SMPS: 200 W
AV: Norton AV 2007

1) Can I upgrade the RAM? If yes, do I have to install the same PC2100 DDR RAM? If yes, is this type of RAM still available in market and at what price? Should I use 2 512MB RAM or 1 1GB RAM?

2) If I upgrade the RAM would the 200W power supply be sufficient? The problem with SMPS is that its Compaq made and the slot can accomodate a similar SMPS only. So I cannot buy a higher wattage SMPS of say VIP or other brand. What to do in this case to upgrade SMPS?

3) Is the motherboard powerful enough to bear all the above upgradations?

4) Can I add another hard disk? If yes, what type and which one should I buy?

5) Tell me other type of upgradations as well which can make my PC faster and more robust.

Thanks in advance to solve my problem. If any more information you need tell me how to find out from machine or OS.

 

[debsuvra]

1. You can definitely upgrade RAM in ur machine. Your PC has DDR 266MHz RAM and u can install a bigger sized module instead of the current one. But nowadays DDR modules are scarce and costly too. If u can find one, then go for it.

2. Power Supply change is not needed when u are just upgrading it. BTW u have a real low power supply unit i.e. PSU. U can always upgrade to 400W atleast.

3. Motherboard is not an problem here.

4. If u have spare port in IDE cable or Spare IDE port on Mobo, then u can surely add another HDD. But then u must add a 400W PSU for smooth performance.

5. Adding more RAM is a good idea. U can also add a better processor. If u are in gaming or want to run Vista with AERO then u can add a nVidia or Ati GFX card.

 

[adiarc]

Thanks Deb for all the help!!