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5 Most Popular Computer Upgrades
by my-tech-guide.com
Most
everyone with a computer is looking to have the fastest,
most efficient computer filled with the latest computer technology.
To keep up with the continual changes as technology becomes
more and more advanced; it requires complete upgrades on
the computer. But, what are the best computer upgrades available?
Memory
Upgrade
One
of the most popular computer upgrades is a memory upgrade.
A memory upgrade is one of the easiest ways to boost the
performance of a PC. Before making a memory upgrade, first
check the BIOS operating system to determine how much memory
is already on the system.
To
make a memory upgrade, it is also necessary to open the case
of the computer to find how many modules are currently installed
and how many slots are still empty. It may be necessary to
take some out and replace them with larger modules if all
of the slots are already full.
After
finding out the current memory situation, review the operating
system and application programs to determine how much memory
is needed to make the computer perform at its optimal level.
In general, these programs provide a minimum and a recommended
rating. To reach the fullest potential of the computer, the
memory should meet or exceed the recommended level.
Before
running out and buying a memory upgrade, however, check the
computer manual or go directly to the motherboard to find
out what type of memory is supported by the current computer
operating system. If this information isn’t gathered, the
memory upgrade may not work.
When
buying a memory upgrade module, it is best to buy the largest
amount of memory with the least number of modules. This way,
there is room for growth in the future. For example, instead
of buying two 128MB modules, purchase one 256 MB module.
Video
Card Upgrade
A
video card upgrade makes it possible to play all of the great
games that are currently available on the market. In fact,
some games are so advanced that they won’t play at all without
a very powerful video card.
Since
there are literally dozens of video cards available, it can
be tough choosing the right one. But, it is important to
first take a look at the motherboard to determine what type
of video cards can be supported by the system. The best video
cards are the ones that transfer data the fastest. In order
from fastest to slowest are PCI express, AGP 8x, AGP 4x,
AGP 2x, AGP, and PCI.
Sound
Card Upgrade
A
sound card improves the sound produced by the computer. This
makes computer gaming more enjoyable, as well as listening
to music and watching digital media.
To
install a sound card, locate an available ISA slot on the
back of the computer. These slots are the longest sockets
on the motherboard and there might be other cards already
installed in the sockets. There are two internal openings
on each of the slots at the back of the computer. So, remove
the access plate at the rear of the socket to insert the
sound card. Make sure the access plate on the sound card
covers the hole created by removing the initial access plate.
But, be sure to gently insert the sound card with a slow
back and forth movement, otherwise the sound card can be
damaged.
DVD
Player/Burner Upgrade
With
so many digital videos becoming available, many people are
looking to upgrade to a DVD player and burner combo. The
most power DVD player/burner currently available is the DVD+R/RW.
These do tend to, however, be incompatible with older DVD-ROM
drives and DVD players. But current big names in the industry,
such as Sony, HP, and Phillips, support these players. DVD+R/RW
drives are faster than previous models and are capable of
formatting while burning data to the disc.
Motherboard
Upgrade
For
those who are truly serious about upgrading their computer,
motherboard upgrades are another popular option. A motherboard
upgrade is the most difficult upgrade to accomplish. Those
who can manage, however, will enjoy the freedom of never
having to buy a new computer. Instead, the motherboard can
be upgraded as technology advances.
In
addition to eliminating the need to buy a new computer, a
motherboard upgrade also makes it easier to upgrade other
components on the computer. This is because purchasing a
motherboard ensures receiving the most up to date technology,
which is then compatible with other upgrade components.
Upgrading
the motherboard, however, requires serious advanced planning
and reading of the computer manual. If done incorrectly,
the computer will become nothing more than a paperweight.
If finished correctly, however, the computer will remain
on the cutting edge of current technology.
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