Build Your Dream Machine

How to Upgrade (Almost) Anything

Before You Begin

Any time you upgrade, you must consider some tasks and perform some housekeeping before rolling up your sleeves and getting to work.

• If you're not running Win 98 SE or Millennium, consider upgrading to one of these OSs, which offer the latest sound and graphics support.
  
  
• Check for the most current software updates.
  
  
• Check for system hardware errors. Go to Start, Settings, Control Panel, choose the System icon, and click the Device Manager tab. If you see a yellow exclamation point next to any of the entries, highlight the entry, click the Properties button, and follow the directions for fixing the problem.
  
  
• Scan and defragment your hard drive. In My Computer, right-click the hard drive icon, and choose Properties. Next, click the Tools tab, and then click the Check Now button. After the system has completed that operation, click the Defragment Now button.
  
  
• Back up all of your programs and all of your data. (It's also not a bad idea to review the replicated files so you can double-check that the backup operation succeeded.)
  
  

CPU Considerations

If your current PC doesn't meet our minimum processor requirement, you'll probably get a better value by starting with a new system. Many of the components in our projects--especially advanced software--work best with a Pentium III, Athlon, Pentium II, or Celeron CPU. Older Pentiums can't be upgraded to these classes of processors, though owners of the oldest Pentium II computers aren't completely out of luck. Companies like Evergreen Technologies offer kits for upgrading to a fast Celeron processor for around $130 to $230. (For details on upgrading CPUs, see our April Upgrade Guide.)

If you're really ambitious, consider upgrading your entire motherboard--but only if you have experience working with hardware and are comfortable poking around extensively inside a PC case. A typical motherboard costs about $100, but the total price depends on the type of CPU and how much RAM you equip it with. The full upgrade will usually set you back $300 to $600. (For details, see our December 1999 Upgrade Guide.)

Essential Upgrades

Unless you have a brand-new computer with more RAM and a bigger hard drive than you can imagine needing, those are most likely the first components you'll want to upgrade.

Make sure you have the right tools for each job. Most projects require a Phillips-head screwdriver, and many call for a pair of needle-nose pliers. You'll also want to avoid destroying components with static electricity. Don't leave a PC that is less than three years old plugged into the wall while you work on it: Even if it's turned off, some low voltage remains on the motherboard. It won't hurt you, but if you accidentally short something, it could damage your PC. The solution is to wear an antistatic wrist strap, which you can find at your local electronics store, such as Radio Shack. If your PC is more than three years old, you can safely leave it plugged into the wall to provide a ground to dissipate static charge.

Opening the case of a modern PC is generally easy, but virtually every one is different. Read your manual carefully before you open the case. Always leave plenty of time for all upgrade projects, too. And before you start, read the manuals that come with your new add-ins and peripherals.