I have an old Dell Latitude that I bought five years ago for $100....my main use for it was for writing purposes. I figure it would be good enough to write the book that I started years ago, and possibly finish it.

Stats: Windows XP Professional w/SP2, Intel Pentium processor 1200MHz, 1.2GHz, 632MB Ram. 40GB Hard Drive, Network card, etc.... Thats all there is to it.

It does connect to the internet, it does have a CD/DVD burner in it, it even came with its own docking station (which I love, but is extremely heavy)

When my QuadCore comp got stolen, my husband let me use his comp (dual core) so I could stay on EQ for both Gaming and the Guide Program. Recently we aquired another Dual Core that was deemed dead...a quick reinstall of Windows woke it back up, so now he has a free computer to use thats better than the laptop, and the laptop can now return to its original use.

However...I have an extra use for it now, to run the tutorials I need to learn how to use some really good 3D graphic programs. (Blender is one) It plays the video's choppy, it plays the movies from the DVD a little choppy and it starts going dark on movies as well.

My question is: Is it possible to upgrade the video on this machine? I know its a proprietary machine (meaning it can only use Dell parts).....but if I can get the required hardware...can the video be improved? (or is the video on board?)

Can I put in a second hard drive? (provided I can find one)


I used to build, repair and sell computers for a living back in the 90's...so I have some working knowledge of how the insides work on a computer, but I have never messed with a laptop. So I just dont know if this is possible on this machine....if it is, it is something I can do if I can find the hardware.


Comments? Advice? (No I cannot afford a new (or newer) laptop....so thats out of the question.

-Daura

Most laptops, especially one as old as you are talking about have all normal add on harware onboard. I doubt upgrading the video is going to be possible or cost effective. Adding some additional RAM (assuming you have a few extra 120 pins slots) would get you the most bang for your bucks.
No chance of adding another hard drive unless its USB external.