bloated operating system

Resurrect a Dead Laptop

Got a four- or five-year-old PC laptop you´ve dismissed as useless? Bring it back to life with these tips, then use it as a spare Web and e-mail station in the kitchen or kids´ room

PC RevivalCost: $0-$260 Easy | | | | | Hard

Start by checking the health of your hardware with a free diagnostic program such as #1-Tufftest (tufftest.com).
If the motherboard or screen is shot, forget it. Replacing either one is more expensive and more hassle than buying a new system.
Lost your user manual? Try the manufacturer´s Web site.
Check eBay or craigslist.org for used replacement parts.

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