In addition to memory, processors, hard disk drives, and video systems, you can also upgrade
your floppy and CD-ROM drives, your PC's sound system, your modem, your computer's
system board, chassis, and power supply, and more.
In addition to upgrade information, I offer you some tips and helpful hints on how to diagnose
and repair problems involving your hardware components and a few tips for generally improving
your PC's overall performance. I even show you where you can get testing and performance
monitoring software (see Figure 1.4), which provides before and after ratings on your
components so that you can actually see the improvements your upgrades are producing.Last, I include an hour on upgrading your PC's operating system, if you haven't already done
so, and why this can be one of the most important upgrades you can make.
Summary
In the past hour, you learned what factors you need to consider when deciding whether to
upgrade your PC. You also learned what components in your PC you can upgrade and what the
pros and cons are of upgrading versus purchasing a new computer.