Welcome to the Collier Computers weekly progress update! This week marked significant progress on multiple fronts, including benchmarking, video capture setup, and system maintenance. With a renewed focus on creating high-quality content and improving workflows, we’ve set the stage for more exciting updates in the coming weeks.

Completed Tasks

• HDMI Video Capture Setup: Received and successfully configured a new AXHDCAP 4K HDMI Video Capture Card with the correct FOINNEX VGA to HDMI converter. This setup allows me to record video output from the Gateway 500SE PC using OBS Studio. The initial converter I ordered was incompatible and has been returned.
• Updated OBS Studio Configuration: Configured OBS Studio on my PC workstation to capture high-quality video from retro PCs, completing the final setup for benchmarking video recordings.
• MacBook Pro Reformat: Reformatted my 2019 Intel MacBook Pro (2.4 GHz 8-Core Intel Core i9, 64 GB RAM, 1TB SSD). After running the same macOS install since 2019, I performed a clean install of macOS Sequoia 15.2 to declutter and optimize performance.

In Progress

• Testing Benchmarking Tools: PerformanceTEST is currently under review to evaluate its accuracy and compatibility with older hardware.
• Reinstalling Windows XP: Preparing the Dell Dimension 4700 for benchmarking and testing by reinstalling Windows XP. This process includes formatting the drive, installing required drivers, and ensuring hardware compatibility for optimal performance.
• Updating Product Data: Continuing to refine and document data for the Dell Dimension 4700, which will be used for future content and benchmarking analysis.

Looking Ahead

As the groundwork is now in place, the upcoming week will focus on content creation and expanding the benchmarking series:

• Publishing a blog post on setting up and working with benchmarking tools, providing insights into the process.
• Recording and editing high-quality video benchmarks for retro PCs using OBS Studio.
• Testing and documenting gameplay performance on the Gateway 500SE, Dell Dimension 4700 and more!
• Exploring additional SEO optimizations for retro PCs, including the Gateway 500SE and Dell Dimension 4700.

Additional Notes

This week also included some necessary hardware updates and reflections on my overall workflow:

• The Gateway 500SE is now fully configured for video recording with OBS Studio on my PC workstation, paving the way for more consistent benchmarking and gameplay content.
• With my MacBook Pro reformatted and decluttered, I’m leveraging the fresh install to streamline tasks and improve productivity across all projects.

As always, I’m committed to sharing the journey of restoring and benchmarking retro PCs while providing valuable resources to the community. Stay tuned for more updates next week!