How To Identify Computer Speed
I've had too many laptop computers, and mechanicaly speaking, this Dell is the worst of'm all, forcing me to replace it. But it is the fastest operating one of all I've had. So my question is, what #s...
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You can get a "general" idea of your computer's performance under Windows by looking at the Windows Experience Index. At minimum, for comparison purposes between systems.
Hold down the "Windows Key + Pause" will bring up the current index rating. You can also find it doing a search from the start menu. The actual performance will depend on your specific application use, which may require additional research. Follow software manufacturer's recommendation for best performance.
But, I also have had my frustrations with DELL which are popular in enterprise environments. Just got issued a new DELL OptiPlex 7020 desktop at work, pre-imaged with Windows 7 Pro. Not a bad processor, Intel i5 quad-core, but still a not too impressive overall Windows Experience Index rating of 5.9.
It's hindered largely by an anemic 280 Watt power supply(PS), using a proprietary power connector to the motherboard. Which limits its expansion options. DELL apparently wants you to buy their much more expensive workstations if you want to expand its performance.
But for less than $200, installed an SSD system drive and a GeForce GTX750 graphics card which can operate on bus power from a 300 Watt power supply. This boost its graphic capability substantially from its integrated Intel chipset.
Bottom-line, these simple upgrades increased the index from 5.9 to 7.6, limited only by the CPU. While 7.9 being the current highest achievable Windows 7 rating.
This allows me to do some quick HD video editing and graphics work without a hitch. Though do have a fast iMAC with Adobe CS6 suite sitting right next to it, so not really an issue.
Hold down the "Windows Key + Pause" will bring up the current index rating. You can also find it doing a search from the start menu. The actual performance will depend on your specific application use, which may require additional research. Follow software manufacturer's recommendation for best performance.
But, I also have had my frustrations with DELL which are popular in enterprise environments. Just got issued a new DELL OptiPlex 7020 desktop at work, pre-imaged with Windows 7 Pro. Not a bad processor, Intel i5 quad-core, but still a not too impressive overall Windows Experience Index rating of 5.9.
It's hindered largely by an anemic 280 Watt power supply(PS), using a proprietary power connector to the motherboard. Which limits its expansion options. DELL apparently wants you to buy their much more expensive workstations if you want to expand its performance.
But for less than $200, installed an SSD system drive and a GeForce GTX750 graphics card which can operate on bus power from a 300 Watt power supply. This boost its graphic capability substantially from its integrated Intel chipset.
Bottom-line, these simple upgrades increased the index from 5.9 to 7.6, limited only by the CPU. While 7.9 being the current highest achievable Windows 7 rating.
This allows me to do some quick HD video editing and graphics work without a hitch. Though do have a fast iMAC with Adobe CS6 suite sitting right next to it, so not really an issue.
