Issue 42.10
Last time we talked about how the number of cores and speed of your CPU (Central Processing Unit) affects the capability of your computer and how smoothly it runs. I have had a number of people ask me what else they can do to increase performance.
If you have enough memory (1-2 Gigabytes for single core Windows XP, at least 2 Gigabytes for any dual core and at least 4 Gigabytes for any system running Vista or Windows 7), the next thing you can do to improve performance is to upgrade your video card.
Most computers currently have a video output included in the motherboard. While an integrated solution like this is convenient and does basic graphics (word processing, spreadsheets, etc.) just fine, if you use your system for anything graphics intensive (photo editing, presentations, typesetting and especially gaming) you may want to upgrade to a performance based graphics card.
The low end cards will give you improved performance over the integrated motherboard type. They typically have 512 Megabytes of RAM (Random Access Memory) and most of the newer computers use a PCI-e, PCI-e 16 or PCI-e plus interface. You will want to check your documentation to see which your computer can use. If you have an older computer, you may have to locate an AGP or PCI graphics card which can be a challenge. The newer cards in this type run from $80 to $150.
If you move up to the 1or 2 Gigabyte video cards, you are set to get the most out of your system for every challenge except extreme gaming. Speed is maximized and the colors and resolution are wonderful. Prices for these cards range from $120-$300.
If you are crazy about gaming and want ultra realism as you shoot, chop and plunder, extreme video gaming cards can carry as much as 16 Gigabytes of RAM and cost as much as a couple of thousand dollars. It’s more than I would ever buy, but there is a market for them.
These video cards can give you a noticeable improvement in the display you see and the actual speed your computer provides. They can be a good investment in the enjoyment you get from your system – and, as always, make sure you have a backup of anything important.
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 29 years (locally with Musicomp & Bits ‘N’ Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions, you can reach him at 668-7118.