Swappin' Parts
There's A Transformation Taking Place

Each month in "Swappin' Parts," a Computer Power User writer upgrades one out-of-date component in our test machine, MERLE (Mediocre Electronic Refurbished Low-end Equipment). When we're finished we will have transformed MERLE from a silicon trash can into a powerful system we'd be proud to put in our own homes. To date, we've upgraded MERLE's CPU, memory, sound card, speakers, video card, optical drive, case, and PSU (power supply unit). This time around, we go straight for the display.

Many of us pay little mind to our monitors. Why would we? We only stare at them the majority of our waking hours. Case in point: In the introductory "Swappin' Parts" piece that appeared in CPU's December 2001 issue, there's no mention of Merle's beige 15-inch IBM E54. I'm reasonably certain Michael, who introduced you to MERLE, saw the monitor. I see it myself right there in the accompanying photo to the article, complete with a frown on the screen (presumable to indicate that Merle's "bad"). I'm more inclined to think the monitor displaying its malcontent for being completely overlooked (just teasing, Michael).

For the complete article, please contact me at rains@writeasrains.com