Dell Inspiron 580s Desktop PC Review

Not everyone is looking for a $2000 power PC that can run the latest programs on 3 different monitors. Some people just want something that does what they need it do to, well. The Dell Inspiron 580s is a very affordable and well-built PC that does just that.
Technical Specifications:
 
- Intel Core i3-530 2.9GHz
- 320GB HD @ 7200rpm
- 4GB RAM
- Intel GMA HD graphics
- 250w PSU
- DVD-RW Drive

The Inspiron 580s is part of Dell's very basic needs line. It doesn't contain the latest expensive set of dual video cards or a 10,000rpm HD. However, just because it's baseline doesn't mean it has to run slow and look bland. The Inspiron 580s actually sports some surprisingly good looks with a neat new line of faceplate designs that Dell has been dishing out recently. It's also fairly slim for a desktop PC, leaving a lot of room for other things on or around your desk.

As for the performance, it's made some decent improvements over previous models. The Intel i3 processor is fairly impressive for an entry model like the 580s, and is a nice upgrade from the previous model. The graphics card isn't anything to gawk at, however, it's highly unlikely that you're going to need more than what it provides for a baseline desktop such as this one. It also comes with 4GB of memory, which is the standard for almost all PCs this days, giving you room for multitasking through numerous programs and some solid start-up times.

While it's obvious the Dell Inspiron 580s isn't a powerhouse, it's a very solid entry-level computer that's going to cover the average user's needs extremely well. It's well built, looks good, and it's slim but tall design allows room for more important things that you need around your computer work area. If you're looking for a new PC that's going to get the job done and not cost you a fortune, the Dell Inspiron 580s is definitely something you consider.

Dell Memory Upgrade

Improve the Performance of Your Dell PC or Laptop

When you buy a PC or laptop from Dell, they give you a huge amount of choice, making it easy to find the machine that fits your requirements. But you may find at a later date that you want more from your computer, and that it has trouble keeping up with your demands. You can get more from your Dell computer by giving it a memory upgrade.

A memory upgrade will increase the amount of RAM (Random Access Memory) your Dell machine is able to access. This helps to improve the machine's performance and allows you to do more with your Dell computer.
Why You May Need a Dell Memory Upgrade

Adding more memory to your Dell machine gives you a number of benefits. The most immediately obvious effect is that your PC or laptop will be faster. If you've been getting fed up with the time it takes your computer to start up when you switch it on, or the time it takes to open documents and other files, then a Dell memory upgrade is the answer.

Giving your Dell computer extra memory also allows you to do more things at once. Added memory means you can have more software applications running simultaneously, and have more files open at the same time - ideal for multi-tasking or comparing more than one document. This also means you can have more processes running in the background, so you don't have to waste time shutting one application down to open another.
Certain processes, such as video editing, make huge demands on a computer's memory. If you're finding that a particular application that you use quite often is causing your Dell laptop or PC to slow down, increasing the memory of your Dell machine will certainly help.

Where You Can Get a Dell Memory Upgrade


Getting a Dell memory upgrade is fairly straightforward, but you do need to make sure that the memory you are buying is compatible with your specific Dell machine. Currently the most common types of computer memory are DDR and DDR2, but some Dell machines use different types of memory module.
Your Dell computer manual will contain information on what kind of memory will work for your PC or laptop. If in doubt, talk to a Dell spare parts supplier. They will be able to advise you on the most appropriate RAM upgrade for your machine, as well as the amount of memory that would suit your requirements.

Once you know what you need, you can buy a Dell memory upgrade from any computer store or Dell spare parts supplier, either locally or online. If you've already been speaking to a Dell spares supplier for advice, then they should have the components you need to increase the memory of your Dell machine. If not, then your local computer store or an online Dell parts supplier will have the memory upgrade, or will be able to order it in for you. Memory upgrades are not particularly expensive, and can make a real difference to the performance power of your Dell computer.

Installing a Dell Memory Upgrade


Installing new memory to your Dell computer will, of course, require removal of the computer case and some work inside the computer itself. If you are not confident about doing this, ask a computer technician or a technically-minded friend to help.

If you are happy to do the installation yourself, make sure you're fully prepared before getting started. You will probably need a screwdriver to remove the outer cover of your Dell computer - although some covers can be removed without tools. One piece of equipment you do need is an antistatic wrist strap. This prevents static electricity from your body from causing any damage to the sensitive electronic components of your computer. In terms of tools, you should not need anything else - just concentration and a little patience.
Before removing the casing of your computer, you will need to remove all the cables that are connected to the machine. You may find it helpful to label each cable before unplugging it, to remind yourself where each cable goes when it comes to reattaching them. Most of the ports on a computer will only fit a specific type of cable, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Once you have removed the outer casing, you need to find the correct slot for your Dell memory upgrade. Slots for extra memory should be located in the computer's motherboard. The motherboard is a large circuit board which contains some of the most essential components of your computer. There will be two or more memory slots in the motherboard. At least one of them will already contain the computer's existing memory, which may help to make the slots easier to find.

On a Dell computer, or any other machine, the memory slots need to be populated in order. For example, if there are three slots and only the first one is holding a memory module, the next memory upgrade needs to be plugged into the second slot, not the third.

To insert the memory, make sure the notches on the card are correctly aligned with the memory slot (they will only fit one way). Also make sure that the locking clips at either side of the slot are pushed outwards and 'unlocked'. Gently slide the memory module into the grooves on the locking clips. Then apply firm and even pressure to the card to push it into the slot. As you do this, the locking clips will move into the 'locked' position. Once the memory module is fully inserted they will hold it firmly in the slot. Your memory is then installed!

Once you have installed the memory, you will need to check your Dell computer to make sure that everything is running correctly. You can leave the cover off for this. It won't cause any harm to the machine and will save time if you need to get back inside. Make sure all the cables are reconnected correctly. Turn the monitor on and let it warm up for about ten seconds, then switch the computer on. As your Dell machine boots up, it should display the amount of memory available. This should of course be a total of the original amount of memory plus the amount of the upgrade. If this is incorrect, or the computer has a problem starting up, you may not have installed the memory correctly, or you may have disconnected another component by mistake. You will need to go back and check that everything is properly connected. If you get into real trouble, then you may have to seek technical advice.

Hopefully, you've managed to install your Dell memory upgrade without any complications. Now your Dell computer is ready to run faster, better, and more efficiently.

Hardware Associates are Dell spare parts suppliers in the UK, supplying a full range of Dell memory upgrades, along with all other types of spare parts, components and equipment for all models of Dell PCs and laptops.