Computer Technology Tip

Upgrading Your Computer Hardware

Earlier articles that I have written have dealt with purchasing computers. This article will deal with other lower cost alternatives that exist instead of replacing a computer. Some possibilities are: increasing your RAM memory to at least 512Mb's for Windows XP or 1GB for Vista. I would double those amounts if you do a considerable amount of photo editing. Another is adding a second hard drive (desktops only) for added storage space for your data files. Other easy upgrades are replacing a worn mouse, keyboard, adding a flash drive, and upgrading to flat screen (LCD) monitor. Let's take them one-by-one.

Adding memory is easy. Information about this upgrade is usually contained in your operator's manual. Note the memory speed, like "PC-4200" and type like "DDR2". After you read about it go online to www.crucial.com. Click on 'Scan My System". Follow the on-screen instructions. The scanner will check your system and make recommendations. Don't buy faster (higher number) RAM than what's already in your system as it is just a waste of money. An example would be buying PC-6400 memory when your system specifies PC-4200 memory. It's like putting premium gas into a car that calls only for regular. Cost is around $30.00 to add 1GB of memory. Newer memory replacements now start at PC-4200 but are backward compatible for older computers that may use PC-2700 or PC-3200 memory. Adding more memory can improve performance particularly if you only have 256Mb or less.

Space permitting, adding a second hard drive is trickier. Again this information is contained in your manual but can be done by users familiar with computer components. Cost for adding a 160GB 7,200 RPM drive is around $50.00. Note whether your system can use the newer SATA type drives or it uses the older IDE type. Software to transfer all your information from your old drive to the new drive often comes with a new drive or it can be downloaded. If you just want to use the new drive for additional storage then transfer your data files using Windows Explorer which is built in to Windows XP or Windows Vista. Recommended hard drives are drives made by Seagate or Western Digital.

Replacing a mouse is about the easiest thing to do. Get rid of those old mice with roller balls that collect dust and skip or move erratically. Purchase an optical (laser) USB mouse. The Logitech MX400 is a nice model for about $35.00.

Usually you don't have to replace keyboards unless you need a special key function or you spill something on it. Keyboards are priced from $25.00 -$40.00. Some are curved for better comfort. Microsoft makes good keyboards. Again go for a wired USB keyboard. Avoid wireless types for both mice and keyboards.

Now that almost all new computers come without floppy drives, unless you special order them, a USB flash drive replaces the venerable floppy drive. A 1GB flash drive is around $10.00 which is about $20.00 cheaper than adding a floppy drive to a new computer. You also can store over 700 times as much information on a 1GB flash drive compared to a single floppy disc.

Upgrading to a flat screen monitor is easy too. I would recommend a 17" minimum or if space permits a 19" monitor. Samsung and Dell make good units. A Dell 19" is about $225.00.

In summary all of these upgrades are easily done except possibly for adding another hard drive. They don't require any special computer configuration. USB (Universal Serial Bus) a term that I have referred to in this article is present on all computers. There are usually 3-6 of these connectors, mounted in the front and the rear of desktop computers. Just plug in the device and you are ready to go.

Oh yes, there are some other USB upgrade items. How about a USB operated cup warmer. This is the perfect add-on to keep your coffee/tea warm while you compute. It's only $12.00. Not a good idea? Then, how about a USB vacuum cleaner? This item will keep your keyboard free from all the crumbs while you snack and drink your USB warmed coffee. It's only $6.00.

Additional help for your computer problems can be found by coming to the PC Club meetings held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM, upstairs in Winfield Hall.

Don Trauger

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To get answers to your questions about computers, please come to the PC Club meeting. The computer club meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM in Winfield Hall.

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