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    How to check notebook hardware?

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Wozik, Sep 17, 2007.

  1. Wozik

    Wozik Newbie

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    I want to buy a used notebook with a significant discount. What should I test? Do I have to run any benchmarks or tests to be sure that hardware does work properly? The seller won’t provide any warranty, so I have to check all the required things myself.
     
  2. SideSwipe

    SideSwipe Notebook Virtuoso

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    HDTune and speedfan help check the status of the harddrives

    memtest tests the RAM

    as long as the computer runs and loads windows and all fine, then the CPU should be fine.

    just check the USB ports and CD ROM to make sure they work

    run 3DMark for the video card

    check the screen for dead/stuck pixels

    i think theres a tool for that but you have to actually look at the screen yourself when the tool is running.

    check the keys and touchpad works

    monitor temperature using RMClock and speedfan
     
  3. lua

    lua Notebook Consultant

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    i recommend hwinfo

    www.hwinfo.com

    this gives you a very, very extensive list of all hardware components installed on your laptop, including the brand name, etc. it also has a pretty good benchmarking module built in.
     
  4. plattnnum

    plattnnum Notebook Evangelist

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    pray you don't get the blue screen of death
     
  5. Wozik

    Wozik Newbie

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    we'll see if I see any BSOD
    really, while buying, I'll check notebook's serial online. FSC site will tell me about warranty (if any is available)