Debate Over Upgrading Dell Optiplex 9020 MT with Refurbished Parts

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TheCrombie
Junior Member

1

09-09-2017, 04:42 PM

#1

I need to send this message on my phone because my computer isn’t working and I’m struggling to create line breaks. I apologize for the long text.

I own a Dell Optiplex 9020 MT with an i7-4790 CPU, a GeForce GT1030 GPU, 32 GB of Crucial DDR3L-1600 RAM (which I installed myself), a 2 TB SATA SSD, two internal 6 TB hard drives, and a 290 watt PSU. Unfortunately, it’s not functioning properly—it appears damaged from being handled roughly by a moving company. The system shows an error stating it can’t find the boot device, and none of the suggested BIOS adjustments have resolved the issue. One fan was also removed due to improper handling. I’m forced to rely on my phone right now to type this out.

I’m searching for a possible replacement and would like to upgrade within a budget of around $400 or less. Ideally, I’d opt for a refurbished unit, preferably from Amazon or Newegg. I want the new computer to be compatible with the RAM and GPU I already have, unless a better GPU is available—it would be even more advantageous. I also plan to transfer the operating system to my SSD using Macrium, so it’s acceptable if the hard drive isn’t top-of-the-line.

I’d like a quad-core processor or higher, capable of handling HD video editing, and I’m hoping to save money by using the existing RAM instead of buying a new one.

N

NL_lars
Junior Member

23

09-11-2017, 08:01 AM

#2

When fixing issues with your old PC, have you considered using another SATA cable for your boot drive? SATA connections can be sensitive, especially if the device was mishandled, which might cause them to fail.

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TheMindMaster
Junior Member

5

09-12-2017, 01:36 AM

#3

Not yet, but I'll look for a way and give it a try.

R

RizeAbove
Member

228

09-12-2017, 02:38 AM

#4

Sure, I gave it a shot and it didn't succeed.

C

CrazziestOrca
Junior Member

15

09-12-2017, 03:46 AM

#5

Thank you for the suggestion. I plan to sleep this evening, but I'll consider it further tomorrow.

M

MooMoo2011
Senior Member

690

09-12-2017, 04:46 AM

#6

After a bit of searching, I found several options that seemed good, but then realized that they were too small to fit my Blu-ray drive. I finally found one refurbished computer that fits my needs and is within my price range. It comes with 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, so I won't get to use my existing RAM sticks in it, but it seems that all computers with the better CPUs take three DDR4 RAM rather than DDR3. Still it's in my price range even without having to reuse the RAM. I've ordered it. Here's the link:
https://www.newegg.com/p/1VK-0001-5YAY5