E-Machines Modifications

[aknimitz]

I've just a quick question regarding these new e-machines. My boss is wanting a new computer, and wanting one for under $400. I figure an e-machine is my best bet. My question, however, is whether or not I can slave his current harddrive into the new e-machine box? I've heard a lot of these e-machines/compaq type computers fight upgrades/modifications, but am not sure about something as seemingly subtle as a harddrive.

Any input is appreciated!

Thanks,
Nim

[midnight Target]

I've had 2, and both have been very reliable. Not sure about the hard drive, but I did have to special order a power supply from the factory (son dropped the box.. cracked the plug).

[aknimitz]

I just got the below off the emachines website. As I read it, I can, but I have to buy the brackets myself, which is no big deal. Does that read right?



Q: Can I add a 2nd hard disk drive? top

A: Yes, only when you use one 5.25" drive bay with 3.5" drive brackets.3.5" drive brackets are not available from eMachines Inc. There is no internal drive bay available for a 2nd HDD.

[Eagler]

Originally posted by aknimitz
I just got the below off the emachines website. As I read it, I can, but I have to buy the brackets myself, which is no big deal. Does that read right?



Q: Can I add a 2nd hard disk drive? top

A: Yes, only when you use one 5.25" drive bay with 3.5" drive brackets.3.5" drive brackets are not available from eMachines Inc. There is no internal drive bay available for a 2nd HDD.

yes, that is correct if his answer:
"There is no internal drive bay available for a 2nd HDD"
means that there isn't another 3.5 drive bay but with brackets you can make a 3.5 hd fit into an extra/spare/open 5.25 drive bay.

I know the compaq takes a special brackets which only fits a compaq. My guess an e--machine is a little more flexible.

[Eagler]

http://groups.google.com/groups?q=2nd+hard+drive+e-machine&hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&selm=rDjH5.6%24wM1.5170%40news.uswest.net&rnum=2

[aknimitz]

Thanks everyone. Good find, eagler!

Nim

[SunKing]

Wouldn't trust those as far as i could throw em. When I worked in pc tech 90% repairs/issue were emachines.

[aknimitz]

I hate 'em - but my boss is convinced it is what he  needs given the money he is spending.

Nim

[Stringer]

Stop working for a cheap Boss, YOU HACK!!

[aknimitz]

Bleh!

[sling322]

Dude...I built my own system for less than $500.  Dont order an Emachines...they suck.

My system:
AMD 2400 chip
ECS K7S5A Pro - combo w/ chip $119
Sony CDR/RW - $79 w/ $20 rebate
Western Digital 40 gig HD - $69 w/ $30 rebate
Antec case w/ power supply - $90

All purchased at Fry's Electronics.  I even bought a wireless keyboard and mouse and some extra fans and stuff for the case and I still was under $500.

The board uses either SDRAM or DDR RAM so you can use old RAM if you got it or buy DDR ram if you want.  I stuck with my old ram for now because of budget constraints, but I will probably slap a new vid card and DDR ram in it this winter.