Buying a new computer when the old one seems to have gotten too old for your taste may prove to be an expense that you cannot afford. Instead of cracking you head thinking about ways to make extra cash for such an investment, try upgrading your old computer so you can make it work as well as other, newer models. Here is the smartest way to do it.

Your battle plan must start with a little inspection of your current computer configuration. As you well know, some components are easier to upgrade than others, and some, - not necessarily the most expensive ones - , may lead to the dreamed increase in performance. For instance, purchasing and installing a new CPU is more of a hassle than buying some extra RAM. Also, the newly bought RAM will make your computer run faster and you will not regret your choice.

The list of priorities for IT purchases must always start with the RAM. A little word of caution is necessary: take a look at your motherboard manual and other documentation concerning your existing hardware and see which type of RAM you must purchase. If the new RAM is not compatible with the rest of the computer, then it will be just wasted cash.

Usually, high quality RAM works well with a high bus frequency CPU, so take this aspect into consideration when you go shopping. Also, if you intent to upgrade your CPU as well, make a comparison to see what configuration fits your pocket best.

Another aspect that must stand at the foundation of your upgrade plan is the main uses your machine performs for. If you are a 3D video games fanatic, or you work with complex and resource consuming graphic software, then upgrading your graphic chip is next on your list. This is among the most expensive investments in your upgrade, so evaluate the situation while cold headed.

For example, if all you do is surf the web, check email, and type up the occasional Word document, it doesn't make sense to acquire a $600 graphics card equipped with the cutting edge of 3D rendering hardware. Also, consult your PC's manual to determine the type of bus-PCI Express, AGP, PCI, etc.-your motherboard supports for its graphics adapters. Once you've acquired your graphics card of choice, the installation should be straightforward and painless.

Continuing the research on your necessities, take a look at your hard drive. If you like to stock up a lot of music, photos or movies, you will be in dire need of a bigger hard drive. Making copies on DVD's or USB drives is a solution, but having a sturdy 200 GB hard drive is a more elegant and easier to handle solution.

What is so convenient about new hard drives is that they are usually sold together with a piece of software meant to take all the information from your old data storage device, along with the already installed Windows and simply transfer it to the new one. With an improved hard drive, all the performances of your computer will live a new life.

There are also other aspects to be regarded when upgrading your PC. If your model is a brand computer, such as Dell, HP or IBM, putting on a new motherboard may prove to be quite a challenge. So, changing the motherboard during your upgrade effort may require other expenses, such as a new case for your computer.

Even it is seems like a hassle, an upgrade to your PC will do justice to your needs and your wallet, as well. You will end up paying less than you would if you decided in favor of a new machine, but only if you plan thoroughly ahead.