So I’m like most tech guys.  I got a lot of cool toys.  Including 2 main computers - the desktop and laptop.  Built the desktop with my cousin (my first time, done them by myself since then) and got some great deals.  Basically the same Alienware or XPS type setup you’d get for around $3500 for less then half that.  Got the LCD, the scanner/printer/copier, P4 with HyperThreading, video card, sound card, etc.  Specs aren’t important.

But like any expensive endeavor you always have to watch out for the ‘lowest common denominator.’  At the heart of these great beasts are the motherboards.  Basically, they’re like your mother - they keep everyone in line and keep the show running smoothly.  Until the $40 motherboard in your expensive computer goes kaput.  You go from having a sick gaming / programming station to a 4 digit paperweight.  Fun times.

So now I’m reduced to the laptop.  Not so bad considering I bought it after and it’s a pretty nice machine itself.  But you’d think with a degree in computer science, the knowledge to build the computer in the first place and all my ‘tech savvy’ I wouldn’t be done in with a simple $40 part.  It’s so ironic it’s funny.

Next time I’ll buy the smaller LCD and invest in a better motherboard.  Lesson learned.  Plus, the little bonus that it overheated my video card and warped it’s fan.  So that’s another fun fix I have to do.  Right now I’m trying to just not perform a little percussive maintenance (physical violence + delicate computer == trouble).

Ever been done in by a ‘lowest common denominator’ - computer or otherwise?  Loose lugnut on a new tire, extra part on your entertainment system that later fell over, etc?