Reliability

[Juked07]

What parts in a computer are typically the most reliable? Which are the quickest to go? (I understand that these things vary, but supposing we had like 100,000 computers to sample or something...)

I'm curious because I'm thinking about possibly looking at some parts that aren't new and I don't want to skimp on the ones that were already not as hardy to begin with.

Thanks

 

[lxskllr]

Imo, the CPU is most robust, the HD least.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Originally posted by: lxskllr
Imo, the CPU is most robust, the HD least.

Agreed if the parts were used in a well-cooled computer and not overclocked.

If you're thinking of buying a used or open box CPU, RAM or video card, be aware that the old owner might have overclocked, over-volted, or cooked them.

 

[Blain]

Most reliable - Case, CPU and memory
Least reliable - HD, PS and MB

 

[DSF]

I agree with what's been said so far, and I haven't had a DVD drive fail on me yet, but people tend to charge enough for used DVD drives that you may as well buy new.

 

[montag451]

I would say that a 'good' psu is probably more reliable than a piece of RAM or a CPU, just on the basis of the complicated/small structures in these items.
If your PSU cost more than your RAM, then you probably have a good reliable block of capacitors etc.