Gateway Parts

What parts of a computer need to bew upgraded? as in hardware?

Do motherboards need upgrades? How do i know what motherboard i have?

Public Comments

1. Upgrade your RAM
2. Upgrades in a computer is dictated by what the computer is used for. As far as your motherboard is concerned, it should have the make and model number on it, either stamped or stickered.
3. No parts of a computer "need" to be upgraded. You may want to upgrade parts to add more storage, increase the CPU speed, etc. To find the motherboard version, check on your computer manufacturer's website. If you had it built, check with the person who built it.
4. Install the Belarc Advisor, it will identify all the hardware in your PC. Then, re-post with a list and we can help. Yes, motherboards can be replaced, but RAM and CPU upgrades should be considered first.
5. I've always ran out of disk space more often than anything else. And, good for me, disks are cheap now adays. If your PC is so old you're thinking about 'upgrading', then buy something new off the shelf. It no longer pays to part something together. But, if you're interested, start by investigating your BIOS... http://www.biosupgrades.com/biosupgrades/index.cfm
6. To find out your motherboard you will either have to refer to documentation for the computer or open the case and look at the writing on it. Usually there is markings identifying it such as GA-N7400 or something like that. Most motherboards themselves are no longer upgadeable as in chip replacement except the CPU (processor) and RAM (memory). many computers come from the factory with a processor slower than the boards capabilities so you can do that. Adding RAM helps a lot and most systems again are built with some RAM slots open for adding later. Otherwise you add in cards. Video, for better faster video you change to a better video card, same with sound. Add in a 7.1 surround sound system (sounds great). Add a modem if one is not installed, TV card to watch TV on your monitor. Most new inexpensive systems have sound and video onboard the motherboard and for better you have to add in cards. Since motherboards are limited in what processors they can handle you can not put a dual core on older motherboards so you would have to replace the motherboard to do that. Also older power supplies may not be compatible with newer motherboards.