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General discussion

A Few Questions...

Mar 14, 2010 5:45PM PDT

I've been using Windows 7 for a while now and was really happy with all the "eye-candy" and some really cool stuff! And while exploring for other "cool stuff" on the OS I came across Windows Experience Index! I was very excited as it began to rate my PC...

Then WWHHAAMM! I score 2.0!

I tried to ignore it but I had to take a look.

Seems my processor is dragging me down!

The following are my scores:

Processor : 2.0 (HATE THIS!)
Memory (RAM) : 3.8
Graphics : 3.3
Gaming Graphics: 5.3
Primary Hard Disk : 5.8

Base Score : 2.0

Now my questions are:

1. Is this hardware assessment by Windows reliable?
2. What is the best CPU I can get to improve this rating?

Hardware Specs:
Motherboard: ASUS P5GC-MX/1333
CPU: Intel Pentium 4 3.2 (Okay yeah, definitely upgrade needed!)
RAM: 1.5 GB
Video Card: ATI Radeon HD 3450
OS: Windows 7 Ultimate Build 6.1.7600 x64

I know my machine hardly meets the minimum requirements, but the OS is working fine with Aero enabled.

Since the install I have played Half-Life 2 and Unreal Tournament 2004 on the machine with maximum graphics settings and haven't noticed any lag.

I'm not a hardcore gamer and just play a bit for fun. I don't need a high-end computer, just one that wont give me such a disappointing score!

So please guys... what do I do? HELP!

Discussion is locked

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The overall score
Mar 14, 2010 9:21PM PDT

In Windows 7 the overall score uses the LOWEST value in any category. While that explains the score it is up to us to know that there are tradeoffs between CPU and GPU and if the machine works well enough then we ignore that score.
Bob

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How would you rate ...
Mar 14, 2010 9:25PM PDT

your PERSONAL experience with this PC for your PERSONAL use. From what you write, I think it's at least a 3.8 (on a scale from 1 to 5). That's good enough to leave it as it is, and do nothing.

Kees

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Thanks!
Mar 15, 2010 6:41AM PDT

However, if its not too much trouble, I would definitely like to know if there is a better alternative to my current CPU. P4 is a bit outdated don't you think? With all the dual cores around...

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Link only.
Mar 15, 2010 5:56PM PDT