This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Loading...
Frequently asked questions
Comprehensive offers and a constantly changing component market make it difficult for end consumers to get a comprehensive overview of the PC sector. To make it easier for you, we try to answer frequently asked questions about PCs as simply as possible on our FAQ pages.
We hope that our tips will help you choose the right components or troubleshoot a problem. If you have any questions about our products or would like more detailed information, our service hotline is available 7 days a week.

CSL Computer
CSL Computer GmbH is one of the leading distributors for PC systems, computer hardware and electronic articles in Germany. We answer the most important questions about your purchase at CSL Computer here.
How long does it take to process emails?
As a rule, emails that reach us on working days are processed within 24 hours.
How does financing work via ConsorsFinanz?
All information about financing can be found here: Financing
.
I'm having trouble deciding with so many options, can you help me?
Our telephone hotline is available for advice at +49 511 / 76 900 100 (Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m.).
Is your phone number a "disguised" expensive service number?
No, our telephone number is a normal landline number. When you make a call, the costs that your telephone provider estimates for calls to the German landline network are incurred. If you have a flat rate for calls to the German landline network, you will not incur any additional costs.
I can't describe my PC problem over the phone or I would like to attach pictures or similar to illustrate it. Can I contact you in writing, preferably by email?
Yes, you are also welcome to contact our customer service via email. Please write to the following email address: [email protected].
How long do I have to wait for my PC?
Our computers are usually ready for shipment 3-5 working days after receipt of payment, provided that the corresponding offers are marked with the status "available". In individual cases, however, longer delivery times may still occur due to unforeseeable delivery bottlenecks.
How can I pay you?
You can find an overview of the payment methods we accept here: payment methods
.
What are the shipping costs for an order?
You can find an overview of the shipping costs here: Shipping and shipping costs
.
I received a €10 voucher with my order. What can I do with it?
The voucher is valid for a purchase in the CSL computer online shop and can be used for all PC systems, upgrade PCs and notebooks from a value of €150. Only one voucher per order.
I heard you send out voucher codes from time to time. What do I have to do to get a code?
All you have to do is subscribe to our free newsletter or become our fan on Facebook and you will be part of the next voucher.
Do you also deliver your PCs to other European countries?
Yes, we deliver throughout Europe. You can find an overview of the shipping costs here: Shipping and shipping costs
.
How long does it take for you to post a payment via bank transfer?
Depending on which banks are involved, this can take 2-3 working days.
With which service provider are the PCs delivered?
We currently only ship with DHL.
Are there also CSL computers in social networks?
Yes, we operate various social media channels:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cslcomputer
YouTube: www.youtube.com/cslcomputer
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cslcomputer
YouTube: www.youtube.com/cslcomputer
Is there a way to be regularly informed about offers from CSL Computer?
Yes of course there is. Simply subscribe to our free newsletter via the following link and you will receive our current offers once a week: Newsletter registration.
Do you also deliver a PC to a Packstation?
No, unfortunately we cannot offer that. Our shipping boxes are too big for delivery to a packing station.
Can I pick up an order from you in Hanover?
Yes, that is possible. Please order personally on site or select the payment method "Collection / cash or card payment" for an online order. Please note that pick-up orders also require 3-5 working days for production.
Zu den payment methods
I would like to buy on account, is that possible?
No, we do not offer purchase on account. You can find an overview of the payment methods we accept here: payment methods
.
I am a dealer myself and I would like to know whether you offer special resale conditions.
Yes, we offer discounted dealer conditions for resellers. In order to be able to use these, you must register with us as a retailer. You can find out more and register on the following page: Dealer Price List
.
Do I have a right of cancellation if I order from you?
Of course you have a 14-day right of withdrawal.
What does CSL Computer do to make my purchases safe?
In order to protect you as a customer, we only use tested encryption techniques. Using SSL (Secure Socket Layer), your personal data is encrypted (not visible to third parties) over the Internet. So you can be sure that your personal data such as name and address can only be transmitted to our server.

My CSL PC
You have ordered a CSL PC and now have questions about your product? Are you having difficulties with your PC and looking for solutions to problems? We have compiled the most important facts about commissioning your new PC system for you.
When I turn on my brand new CSL PC, the following message appears: "Please insert boot disk". Is the computer already broken?
The message means that no operating system was found on your computer. You probably bought a PC from us without pre-installed Windows.
Please insert your Windows DVD into the DVD drive and restart the PC. When you see the instruction "Press any key to boot from DVD", please press the spacebar and then follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows.
I can't find the PC installation guide anymore. Is it possible to get a new manual?
Yes, you can download the installation guide in PDF format from our service page: Installation guide
.
I can no longer find the driver CD or driver DVD. Is it possible to get a new disc?
No, unfortunately that is not possible. But you can find all the drivers you need for your PC in the driver download section of the CSL shop: driver download
.
I can't find my PC's return form and I need one. What can I do?
You can download our return form in PDF format from the following link: Return form
.
When I turn on my CSL PC, I see the following message: "For Atheros PCIE Ethernet Controller v2.0.2.3. Check cable connection! PXE-M0F: Exiting Intel PXE ROM. Reboot and Select proper Boot device or Insert Boot Media in selected Boot device and press a key” Is the PC broken?
The message means that your PC is trying to find an operating system via the network connection and the search was unsuccessful. You can get rid of this message by changing the boot order in the BIOS setup. If you do not feel confident making this change, you are welcome to contact our telephone hotline: +49 511 / 76 900 100 (Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat-Sun 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.) .
How do I know if my system is missing drivers?
The best way to see this is in the device manager of your Windows system. Entries that need your attention, e.g. because a driver is missing, or unknown devices are displayed here with a yellow exclamation mark or question mark.
Can I also install Microsoft Office with my Windows product key?
No, this is not possible. The product key is only valid for your Windows version. When purchasing an Office version, you will receive a separate key.
Unfortunately I have to complain about my PC. How exactly does this work?
Should it be necessary to make a complaint about your computer, you can send us the device for inspection or repair (if you have purchased the "Pick up" warranty upgrade, please contact our hotline).
To do this, please fill out the return form that came with your PC. A meaningful error description helps us to process your complaint quickly.
Please do not send the device freight collect. We will promptly refund the postage costs you submit. Alternatively, you can also request a postage label from our hotline.
Complaint processing is usually completed within 10-12 working days.
To do this, please fill out the return form that came with your PC. A meaningful error description helps us to process your complaint quickly.
Please do not send the device freight collect. We will promptly refund the postage costs you submit. Alternatively, you can also request a postage label from our hotline.
Complaint processing is usually completed within 10-12 working days.
I ordered a PC and paid with Amazon Payments. Now I would like to change something in the order. What should I do?
Unfortunately, we cannot change such an order afterwards. In this case, please cancel your order and make it again as desired.
Can I open my PC to upgrade hardware without voiding my warranty?
Of course you can open your PC and upgrade it without automatically losing your warranty. Please do this with caution and care as mechanical damage to the hardware is not covered by the warranty.
I don't have a product key on the side panel of my Windows 10 PC. What should I do?
In this case it is a Windows 10 version with automatic activation.
The product key is integrated into your system and there is no prompt. Activation takes place directly with an existing Internet connection or via a free telephone hotline. To do this, simply follow the product activation instructions on your screen.
Please note: In the case of a PC system without a certificate of authenticity (with automatic activation), there may be problems activating your system again after changing the main board. We therefore advise against switching independently. Instead, please contact our Customer Care directly via email or telephone.
The product key is integrated into your system and there is no prompt. Activation takes place directly with an existing Internet connection or via a free telephone hotline. To do this, simply follow the product activation instructions on your screen.
Please note: In the case of a PC system without a certificate of authenticity (with automatic activation), there may be problems activating your system again after changing the main board. We therefore advise against switching independently. Instead, please contact our Customer Care directly via email or telephone.
Is my narrow box / PC on a stick compatible with Linux?
Our Narrow Box Ultra HD Storage and Narrow Box Ultra HD Compact mini PCs and the PC On A Stick Ultra HD are compatible with Linux. We sell these mini PCs exclusively with the operating systems Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro and our technical support is limited to these operating systems only. You are free to install a corresponding Linux distribution on these devices. However, please note that we cannot provide technical support for using Linux on these mini PCs.

Hardware
Processors, RAM, hard disks - the range of hardware is extremely extensive. We have compiled a list of the differences between individual components, which interfaces are available and what you should look out for in certain hardware.
Why is USB 3.0 now called USB 3.1?
What is USB 3.1?
The USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum), an association of developers of the USB standard, has changed the naming of the third Universal Serial Bus (USB) version from USB 3.0 to USB 3.1. What is new is the distinction between USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Generation 1), the previous USB 3.0 standard, and USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Generation 2). With the USB 3.1 Gen 1 standard, the technical specifications remain unchanged from the previous USB 3.0 standard with transfer rates of up to 5 GBit/s. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard, on the other hand, enables data rates of 10 GBit/s (SuperSpeed Plus), which is twice as fast as USB 3.1 Gen 1.
What is USB Type-C?
The USB Type-C specification is a new type of connector that appeared with the introduction of the USB 3.1 standard. This is a smaller, twist-proof plug connection that enables higher charging currents and voltages. In addition to USB signals, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, PCIe and analog audio signals can also be transmitted, provided the host devices support it. The possible transmission speed is independent of the connector type, but is determined by the USB standard (USB2.0/USB 3.1 Gen 1/Gen 2).
The USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum), an association of developers of the USB standard, has changed the naming of the third Universal Serial Bus (USB) version from USB 3.0 to USB 3.1. What is new is the distinction between USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Generation 1), the previous USB 3.0 standard, and USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Generation 2). With the USB 3.1 Gen 1 standard, the technical specifications remain unchanged from the previous USB 3.0 standard with transfer rates of up to 5 GBit/s. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard, on the other hand, enables data rates of 10 GBit/s (SuperSpeed Plus), which is twice as fast as USB 3.1 Gen 1.
What is USB Type-C?
The USB Type-C specification is a new type of connector that appeared with the introduction of the USB 3.1 standard. This is a smaller, twist-proof plug connection that enables higher charging currents and voltages. In addition to USB signals, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, PCIe and analog audio signals can also be transmitted, provided the host devices support it. The possible transmission speed is independent of the connector type, but is determined by the USB standard (USB2.0/USB 3.1 Gen 1/Gen 2).
Why is the motherboard so small in some PCs and not in others?
Mainboards in ATX or ITX format, which are available in different sizes, are commonly installed in PCs. One speaks of the size of the form factor. We use different form factors in CSL PCs, e.g. Micro-ATX but also ATX (the original size is also called full-size ATX).
I'm getting low memory, maybe I got less than I ordered?
You're likely seeing a different storage size than what you ordered for one of the following reasons:
- You are using a 32-bit operating system that can address a maximum of 4 GB of memory. Since some memory for the system bus is "lost" here, you only have around 3 GB available.
- You have purchased a PC with on-board or on-chip graphics. These graphics solutions reserve part of the main memory as graphics memory, which is then not available to you as main memory.
I see less disk space than I bought. Did I get a hard drive that was too small?
All manufacturers calculate the sizes of the hard disks in such a way that even values can be given. For this, the capacities are calculated on the basis of the decimal system, i.e. 1 GB = 1000 MB. Actually, memory sizes are based on the binary system, according to which 1 GB = 1024 MB. Thus, a hard disk that, according to the manufacturer, has a capacity of 500 GB only has an actual capacity of 465.5 GB in its raw state.
You can convert the specified hard disk storage sizes to the actual capacity by multiplying the specified size by 0.9313. This rule applies to all manufacturers and also to all dealers.
You can convert the specified hard disk storage sizes to the actual capacity by multiplying the specified size by 0.9313. This rule applies to all manufacturers and also to all dealers.
How do I know which are the USB 3.0 ports on my PC?
The USB ports are color coded, with black plastic inside the ports indicating USB 1.1 - USB 2.0 and blue plastic indicating USB 3.0.
I benchmarked my SSD and didn't achieve the speed figures stated in the product description. Did I get the wrong disc?
This could be due to the benchmark used. If the software works with incompressible data, the Sandforce controller in the SSD cannot be used properly (precisely because nothing can be compressed) and then you will not necessarily achieve the values that are stated. Instead, please use a benchmark that works with compressible data.
Some CPU names have a "K" at the end of the name and others don't. What is it all about?
The "K" in the CPU designation means that the processor clock can be set via a free multiplier - provided a suitable mainboard is used. This technique is used to overclock a computer system.
It is important to note that this can cause damage to your hardware that is NOT covered by the warranty.
It is important to note that this can cause damage to your hardware that is NOT covered by the warranty.
I need the dimensions of the offered PC cases. Is there an overview?
In the housing selection in the configurator you will find all the necessary data for the individual housings.
May I overclock my PC?
Basically yes. Please note, however, that doing so can cause damage to your hardware that is NOT covered by the warranty.
What does SATA III mean?
The abbreviation SATA stands for "Serial Advanced Technology Attachment" and describes a data transmission standard that is mainly used for hard drives. The Roman numeral "III" designates the most current version at the time.
How much power does my PSU need?
The power supply provides power to the entire computer system. As a rule of thumb, the more powerful the individual components are, the more power they require. In this respect, the required power of the power supply unit increases in line with the performance of the system.
How much memory do I need?
It is difficult to give a general answer to this question because the amount required depends directly on the intended use and the equipment of the system.
What is an APU?
The abbreviation APU stands for "Accelerated Processing Unit" and refers to an AMD processor that also contains a powerful graphics unit in addition to the computing unit.
I want to add an SSD to my PC order as a second drive to install the operating system on. How can I arrange this?
You do not need to do this separately. If there is an SSD in your order, it will be automatically installed as a system drive.

Software
The software you use forms the working interface for your PC. The operating system in particular has a fundamental function. We have summarised the most important information for you here, especially on the Windows and Microsoft Office versions we distribute.
The software you use forms the desktop for your PC.
Do I need to activate my version of Windows?
Yes, your version of Windows must be activated within the first 30 days of installation.
Is activation the same as registration?
no Activation is mandatory to ensure that your Windows version is in compliance with Microsoft's license terms. Registering your version of Windows, on the other hand, is voluntary. Here you enter personal data, such as your e-mail address, to receive support and/or updates, product information, etc. to obtain.
Is personal information transferred upon activation?
no No personal data is transferred during activation. Accordingly, the transmitted data cannot be used to contact you.
Is activation a one-time process or does it need to be repeated at some point?
The process may have to be repeated. If you replace certain hardware, e.g. hard disk and memory at the same time, or reinstall Windows, the activation must be repeated.
What are the minimum system requirements for Windows 10?
- CPU: 1 GHz or faster
- RAM: 1 GB for 32-bit or 2 GB for 64-bit
- Hard Disk: 16 GB for 32-bit OS or 32 GB for 64-bit OS
- Graphic card: DirectX 9 or higher with WDDM 1.0 driver
- Display: 800x600
- Internet connection: Only for updates and use of some functions
Are there any free apps for Windows 10?
Yes, there are not only paid apps in the Windows Store, but also a large number of free apps for a wide variety of application areas.
Can I open or mount ISO files with Windows 10 or at least burn them directly to a CD/DVD?
Yes, both are possible. Right-click the desired ISO file in Windows Explorer and select "Mount" if you want to mount the image or "Burn Disk Image" if you want to burn the contents of the ISO file to CD/DVD.
How do I install an operating system without an optical drive? (bootable USB stick)
Tablets, Mini PCs and the CSL Narrow Box do not have optical drives. In this case, the easiest way to install an operating system without an optical drive is to use a bootable USB flash drive. A detailed step-by-step guide on how to create a bootable USB stick can be found here: https://support.microsoft.com/de-de/help/15088/windows-10-create-installation-media! Please note that the CSL Panther Tablets and the CSL Narrow Box only support the 32-bit version of Windows 10. Accordingly, select Windows 10 in the 32-bit version when making the selection.
On Windows 10, I can only use my Word, Excel and PowerPoint apps for viewing. I should take out an Office 365 subscription for creating and editing. How can I edit my files without an Office 365 subscription?
The "Office mobile" apps under Windows 10 with Word, Excel and PowerPoint can only be used for editing with an Office 365 subscription. The apps can only be used free of charge for editing documents on tablets up to a size of 10.1". However, free online versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint are available. With these you can easily edit your documents. You can use these online variants free of charge by entering the URL https: Open //office.live.com/start/default.aspx and sign in to the site with a free Microsoft account.

Tablets
You have ordered a CSL Panther Tab and now have questions about your product? Having troubles with your tablet and looking for solutions? We have compiled the most important facts for you to start using your new tablet.
Error 771 occurs when clicking on the Microsoft Office tile. How can I start Office?
This is a temporary error indicating that Microsoft's servers have not yet activated the Office license. The tablet must be connected to the internet for activation. Just wait 5 minutes and try the Office installation again.
I just received the tablet but it won't turn on. How do I get the tablet started?
It is possible that the tablet switched itself on during transport due to vibrations. The battery is now completely discharged. Connect the tablet to the supplied charger. After about 15 minutes, the tablet should restart when you press the on/off button. Please fully charge the tablet once.
When activating the window, the message appears: "A security error has occurred. (Error Code: 0x80072F8F)”. How do I get Windows activated?
This message indicates that the date and time setting is incorrect. Windows can only be activated if the date and time are set correctly. In desktop mode, tap the time, then tap "Change date and time settings...". Now set the date and time correctly. Windows should now be able to be activated without any problems.
Office displays a meaningless error message when you first start the tile. How can I start Office?
In order to start Office for the first time, it is necessary that Windows has been activated correctly. Please check if the Windows has already been activated. If not, activate Windows. After successful activation, the first launch of Office will work. The Office is installed when you start it for the first time. During the installation routine, you need to connect this version of Office 365 Personal to your Microsoft account (Outlook, Live, MSN, etc.). The rest of the installation can take about 20 minutes!
When opening MKV files, I get an error message that this format is not supported. How can I watch MKV files on my Panther Tab?
The performance of the Panther Tabs is sufficient to be able to output videos in Full HD. However, the appropriate video codecs must be installed. A free variant is the combination of ffdshow and Haali Media Splitter, which enables the Windows Media Player to play MKV files and many other video formats. To do this, download the current 32-bit version of ffdshow tryouts from http:/ /ffdshow-tryout.sourceforge.net/download.php. Install the software on the tablet. Next you need to install the Haali Media Splitter at http://haali.su/mkv/ download. Also install this software on the tablet. After completing both installations, the installed Windows Media Player is now capable of playing MKV files and a variety of other video formats!
I purchased Office 365 Personal with my CSL Panther Tab. How can I use the second license it contains on my PC or Mac?
First you need to have Office 365 Personal installed and activated on your CSL Panther Tab. This happens automatically when you click on the "Microsoft Office" tile and follow the instructions. After activation, this version of Office is linked to your Microsoft user account. In order to be able to use the additional Office license, you must download the installation program from the Office homepage at https://stores.office.com/myaccount/home.aspx?ui=de-DE&rs=de-DE&ad=DE&fromAR=1 Download to the additional PC/Mac. Simply click on the "Install" button after logging in with your Microsoft user account. A small installer will start downloading. Run this program and follow the further installation and activation instructions. After the installation is complete, you can use Office on your PC.

Other
Here you will find all the questions and answers that we are confronted with in our daily work and that cannot be assigned to any of the categories mentioned above. We hope this gives you a helpful overview.
I want to render videos or animations on my PC. What do I have to pay attention to when buying?
Basically, a powerful processor is required for rendering. There are also render engines that can also use the graphics card for computing, but most rely fully on the CPU. It also makes sense to equip a corresponding system with the largest possible main memory.
Is it better to buy a PC or a notebook?
The decision PC or notebook should be made based on the intended use. Basically, you can say that you get significantly more performance for your money with a PC. So if you need a lot of performance and are not dependent on mobility, a PC is certainly the better choice. If the device has to be able to be used on the move, a notebook is the right computer.
Is Linux better than Windows?
Linux and Windows are two different, independent computer operating systems, both of which have both strengths and weaknesses over each other. Therefore, this question cannot be answered in general terms.
Why is my computer so slow?
A PC becoming or appearing slower and slower can have a variety of causes. These range from accumulated "data garbage" through long, intensive use to malware.
How much power does my PC use?
The power consumption of your computer depends on various factors. As a rule of thumb, remember that more powerful components use more power. In addition, consumption also depends on usage. Computers consume significantly more power under full load than when idle.
What is important for a gaming PC?
In short: A gaming PC needs a strong CPU, sufficient RAM and a graphics card that is as powerful as possible.
What is USB3?
USB stands for "Universal Serial Bus" and designates a serial interface for peripheral devices of all kinds. The "3" refers to the current latest version.
What screen resolution is ideal?
Basically, the higher the screen resolution, the more "space" you have on your screen and the sharper and more detailed the graphics output.
Could you please make a video about the PC CSL xxxx?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer a video for every PC, so we make this dependent on demand.
Ask our experts for advice
+49 511 / 76 900 100
(Mon.-Fri. 8 am – 7 pm / Sat. 9 am – 3 pm)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
REVIEWS