Almost everybody who owns a computer wants to keep track of the fastest and latest technology. In order to keep track of the continuous changes in the technological world, one has to always own an up to date computer. But, what are these upgrades?

Memory Upgrade
One of the most popular upgrades for a computer is a memory upgrade. A memory upgrade is one of the easiest ways to boost the performance of a computer. Before upgrading the memory, first check on your BIOS operating system to determine how much memory is already available on the system.

To make an upgrade, it is also very necessary to open the case of the computer and find out how many modules are presently installed and how many slots are still vacant. It might be necessary to take some of them out and replace them with bigger modules if all of the slots are already full.

After determining the current memory situation, review the operating system and also the application programs to determine how much memory is required to make the computer work at its optimal performance level. In general, such programs provide a minimum and a recommended rating. To reach the maximum potential of the computer, its memory should meet or exceed the recommended level.

Before going out in a hurry and buying a memory upgrade, however, read the computer manual carefully or go directly to the motherboard and find out what type of memory is supported by the current computer operating system. If you don’t gather this information, the memory upgrade may not work.

When you buy a memory upgrade module, it is a good idea to buy the largest amount of memory with the least number of modules. This allows room for growth in the future. For example, instead of buying two 128MB modules, buy just one 256 MB module.

Video Card Upgrade
A video card upgrade allows you to play all of the best games that are available today 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 scores of video cards to choose from, it can be a tough job to make the right decision. But, it is important to first take a good look at the motherboard to know what type of video cards are supported by the system. The best video cards are those that transfer data the fastest. In the order from fastest to slowest are PCI express, AGP 8x, AGP 4x, AGP 2x, AGP, and PCI.

Sound Card Upgrade
A sound card enhances the sound effects of the computer. This makes computer gaming more fun, as well as listening to music and watching other digital media.

To install a sound card, find the available ISA slot on the back of the computer. These slots are the longest sockets on the motherboard and there may already be other cards installed in the sockets. There are two internal openings on each of the slots behind the computer. So, dismantle the access plate at the rear of the socket and insert the sound card. Ensure that the access plate on the sound card covers the hole created by taking off the initial access plate. But, also make sure to gently insert the sound card with a slow back and forth movement, otherwise you might damage it.

DVD Player/Burner Upgrade
With so many digital videos now available, a lot of people are looking to upgrade to a DVD player and burner combo. The most powerful DVD player/burner currently available is the DVD+R/RW. These however tend to be incompatible with older DVD-ROM drives and DVD players. But current big names in the industry like Sony, HP, and Phillips, support such players. DVD+R/RW drives are much faster than previous models and are capable of formatting while burning data to the disc.

Motherboard Upgrade
For those who are really serious about upgrading their computers, motherboard upgrades are also a popular option. A motherboard upgrade is the most difficult one to accomplish. Those who can manage, though, will enjoy the freedom of never needing to buy a new computer. Instead, the motherboard can be upgraded as technology advances.

In addition to getting rid of the need to buy a new computer, a motherboard upgrade also makes it easier to upgrade the other components on the computer. This is because buying a motherboard ensures that you receive the most up to date technology, which is then compatible with other upgrade components.

Upgrading the motherboard, though, requires a lot of advanced planning and reading of the computer manual. If done incorrectly, the computer will become as valuable as a paperweight. If completed correctly, however, the computer will remain on the cutting edge of current technology.