Basic upgrades for more speed

MORE SPEED

with basic upgrades

A RAM upgrade is one of the easiest
and least expensive ways to boost
performance. CPUs are tougher to replace,
but there's nothing more effective.

1.SyStEm EvAlUaTiOn: When upgrading RAM, keep in mind that
every computer with a 64-bit operating system will
benefit from 4 or better 8 GB of RAM but the maximum for
32-bit OSes is 4 GB. The tool CPU-Z (www.cpuid.com)
shows the type of RAM and the amount already in your PC.

2.InStAlLiNg RAm mOdUlEs: Get hold of RAM modules of the
appropriate DDR standard (DDR2 or DDR3) for your PC,
making sure that their frequencies match your existing
modules. Dual-channel mode is more effective, and requires
two or four modules of equal specifications. Consider
whether it would be better replacing your existing RAM
altogether, especially if RAM slots are limited.

3 .UpGrAdInG NoTeBoOk: RaM  Notebooks have small SODIMM
modules. In most cases, there are only two slots and
both are occupied. To remove a module, gently pull the
holders outward till it springs out. A new one will snap in.

4 .SeLeCtInG a CpU: Depending on the age of the CPU and
motherboard, you might have to check second-hand
markets or websites such as eBay to find a suitable
replacement. You might be able to use an Intel Core 2 Quad
instead of a Core 2 Duo, or an AMD Phenom instead of an
Athlon. For notebooks and compact PCs, if the CPU is
upgradeable at all, custom motherboards and coolers make
it difficult to identify exactly which replacements might
work. In CPU-Z, check 'CPU | Max TDP' and 'Mainboard |
Chipset'. For Intel chipsets, go to ark.intel.com. Click
'Desktop Products' (PC) or 'Mobile Products' (Notebook),
click on 'Chipsets' and then the name of your chipset. All
supported CPUs are listed under 'Compatible products'.
Select a CPU and check that its 'Max TDP' does not exceed
that of your current CPU. In case of AMD CPUs, you need to
research online which CPU is right for your socket, chipset
and cooling system (TDP), since there are many options.

5.
InStAlLiNg a nEw CpU: For desktop PCs, first unplug the CPU
cooler. Remove the holder on one side of the cooler and
then the other to lift it off. Use a piece of cloth and spirit to
clean traces of the old thermal compound off the cooler.
Open the locking lever and replace the CPU in the socket,
ensuring it is seated flat, not one corner first. Ensure that the
markings on the CPU and socket line up, and don't use too
much pressure. Squeeze a pea-sized drop of thermal
compound on the new CPU and flatten it with the cooler
base before securing the cooler and plugging it in again. For
notebooks, you will have to consult the manufacturer's
service manual or schmatics, which are often available on
their websites.