Upgrading your computer need not be a complicated matter and there is a lot of small upgrades that can make a significant difference to your machine’s power.

The main areas for consideration are operating system, memory, hard disk, CPU, monitor, peripherals and internet connections.

Bear in mind that you always have to achieve a fine balance between upgrading your existing machine, the cost and effort of doing so, and the justification for a new machine. The good and bad thing about technology is that it moves on very, very quickly. The average laptop nowadays has more processing power than a 1970s main frame computer. The downside of this of course is that when you buy a computer, it’s almost immediately ‘old technology’. That’s why you have to buy the best you can afford, to give yourself the longest possible period of trying to stay in touch with latest advances.

There are course computers happily singing along from many years ago. But unless they have been extensively upgraded, do not expect them to run power-hungry operating systems and applications. And most software applications are not designed for older machines. Software programmers like to push the boat out and will design their code to use the maximum processing power it can squeeze out of a machine.

So, there is an argument for swapping your computer at least every two years – and if you could afford it – perhaps every year, as this would ensure you are buying a machine that is in tip top condition and one that can easily cope with what’s being thrown at it. And from many people’s experience, two years does seem to be a reasonable life expectancy of a modern day computer. By then, it will have been really hammered, especially a home machine, and will either have adopted various peculiar habits, or have the odd virus hiding in its bowels.

In reality, few can afford to swap there machines, once, or twice a year, so the upgrade route does seem the sensible option.

There is, of course, two other main considerations when thinking about upgrading your machine. Are you comfortable doing it yourself and are the components inside your machine made up of proprietary components.

Firstly, how comfortable are you inside your computer box? This for most people is virgin territory and you have know a little about what you are doing. Actually, it’s not that complicated inside the box, but if you pull out the odd wire, spill some tea inside, or bash a component with your adjustable screwdriver, then expect problems.

The good news is, that most of the bits inside a computer are quite easy to take out. They are usually held in a by a few screws, or can be pushed into place, or pulled out. The bad news is that everything has to be in exactly the right place, otherwise it won’t work.

And just a few words of warning. Never open a computer which is plugged into the mains and be wary of static electricity that can build up in the components whilst it’s running, and use you as a way of discharging itself. So, before attempting to lever open your beloved hi-tech box, ensure that you have researched and read what you should do.

Secondly, make sure your computer can be upgraded without using proprietary components. In other words, some computer manufacturers only allow you to use products that they manufacturer, or specify. Now, you can still upgrade, but you will have to use the manufacturer’s components, rather than other brands which will usually be cheaper. There’s little you can do about this and don’t be tempted to seek a way around the problem. Using non-specified brands could actually ruin your computer, so always check with the manufacturer first.

Operating System

If you’re running Windows XP then you might, like a lot of other people, be not so keen on swapping to Windows Vista.

A new operating system takes time to settle down and not only be stable, but also free from attacks. In many people’s view, Windows XP is now, having been out for some years and tested to death, a very stable and a very safe operating system. And although Windows Vista is undoubtedly a step forward – it’s ability to multi-task, organise files and resist attacks – has been well promoted by the marketing men, it does not mean that it will offer a fundamental improvement over and above Windows XP.

Of course, most new computers now come with Windows Vista and the option to opt for Windows XP will soon run out, so there soon won’t be a choice anyway when buying new kit.

What you have to consider when upgrading to a new operating system, is that is it worth it? Okay, when you buy new kit then yes, why not buy the latest operating system, as it’s a good idea to take advantage of the latest software? But if your machine is swinging along quite nicely, then make sure you are convinced about your choice first.

Also, make sure your machine can handle the new operating system. When specifying what machine is required, software programmers don’t like to put off new customers, so they can be very optimistic. They certainly don’t lie, but the minimum requirements listed on the box are not usually good enough to run the system without your computer struggling to keep up.

For example, Microsoft recommend a minimum of 512MB system memory, but everyone knows that you’d be well advised to get at least 1GB of memory, if not more.

So yes, upgrading to a ‘better’ operating system is a good idea, but make sure all the reasons are right before you do so.

Memory

Memory (RAM) is really the best thing that the lay person can do to upgrade their computer. And the great thing about Windows XP and Windows Vista operating systems, they lap up new memory.

But, although memory is technically plug-and-play, you have to think about a few things first. For example, how much can your computer take (most have limits as to what memory the system can cope with)? Secondly, find out what sort of memory you require. There are many types of RAM available, including SD-RAM, DDR-RAM and RD-RAM. Each computer will need a particular type of memory and they cannot be swapped around, so be careful what type you require.

New RAM modules, properly fitted, will basically speed up your computer, because it becomes more efficient at handling key tasks.

The best way to upgrade your computer memory is to buy it from a computer shop, or online outlet. In the shop, provide the details of your computer’s manufacturer and model number, and they should be able to provide you with the appropriate modules. Online sites are a good idea, because with most, they have massive lists of most off-the-shelf computers and you should be able to match yours with their specs, meaning that there is little chance of buying the wrong RAM modules. They will also tell you what your machine was originally equipped with, how many sockets there are and what is the maximum amount of RAM you can install.

And as RAM is comparatively cheap, this is a great chance to make a real difference to your system.

If you’re confident inside your computer box, then all you need to do is open it up, pull out the existing modules (with a firm tug they will pop out), and push in the new modules. Make sure they are seated properly. And that’s it, away you go. Before you start though, make sure you know what the RAM module looks like and where it’s situated.
Also, if you’re not sure what your computer is running, click Start, Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and System. The System Properties box will show you the basics, including CPU speed and on-board RAM.

Most computers and operating systems will benefit from RAM, so don’t hold back when it comes to upgrading.

Hard Disk

Be careful when it comes to thinking about a hard disk upgrade. This is not the sort of thing that a lay person should attempt by themselves. It would be a far better idea to ask the advice of a computer professional.

The idea behind an upgrade is sound enough. A bigger disk will store more data, be more efficient and run faster. But it’s not like installing new RAM; it’s not just a simple matter of plug-and-play.

So, seek professional advice when it comes to a new Hard Disk.

CPU

Basically, don’t go there. Upgrading a CPU (the computer’s brain) is not for the faint hearted. No only is it tricky to switch, but you would more than likely have to upgrade a number of aligned bits of kit, including maybe a new motherboard, fan, memory and new power supply. In short, get a new computer.

Monitor

One of the easiest upgrades is the monitor. And especially if you have an old cathode ray tube monitor, get rid of that straight away. They may have a lovely picture quality, but they take more juice to run (and use far more space on your desk), than using a modern, slim line liquid-crystal display (LCD) monitor.

When first introduced, LCD monitors were expensive and did not provide the required picture quality. Things have now improved and they are comparatively inexpensive, and boast a superb picture quality. Modern examples also come equipped with a number of outlets, including a scart socket, so they can also be used as a television.

So, when you are considering a system upgrade, get yourself a LCD monitor.

Peripherals

Don’t forget the peripherals. Your mouse and keyboard take one hell of a hammering, so be prepared to replace them now and again. A mouse will lose its sensitivity over time, so don’t wait until it starts sending the cursor all over the screen. Get an infra red mouse device (better than the ones with balls) and also consider a wireless version, as this stops you getting locked into a mangle of competing cables.

Same with the keyboard, get a wireless version if you can afford it. Okay, they might have the odd compatibility problem (and need batteries to keep them alive), but it does save stretching cables across the desk and competing for room at the back of the computer.

Internet Connections

First things first, if you’re still using dial-up and have the option of getting Broadband in your area, then do. Dial-up is basically an anachronism of the late 20th century when the internet was a wild west frontier with few laws and little logic.

The world wide web is now a thing of magic, allowing people to roam free through various information and merchant sites. But, if you don’t get the fastest possible connection you can afford, and keep upgrading, then the internet will not offer up all its glories and wonders.

The internet is expanding and the individual sites are expanding as well, not only in terms of what they offer, but in their communicating with the user. If you don’t upgrade your connection, you are going to be left behind.

Top Tips for Upgrading Your Computer – Recap

• computers don’t last forever;
• upgrade operating system if you think it’s worth it;
• memory makes a big difference and is cheap, and easy to replace;
• hard disk upgrade – only for the brave;
• CPU upgrade – forget it;
• swop CRT for LCD;
• don’t forget the mice;
• always expand internet tube.