Posts Tagged ‘motherboard’

Computer Hardware System Drivers Explained

A Windows system is a classified collection of component parts from several manufacturers. These components or devices have to communicate with each other and with Windows PC. The electrical links between components are through wires and electric circuits on the motherboard, but the link to Operating systems is managed by something called a software driver or, to mention it in full a device driver, named by Microsoft.

Device driver is a ingenious innovation that grants Microsoft to keep its Window systems up to date. It also allows manufacturing businesses to produce new computer hardware parts independently. Imagine that one of the superior sound card manufacturing businesses produces a new model that is not accepted by any of the existing versions of operating systems. If Windows were an inflexible operating system, the company would not be allowed to sell the card until it had persuaded Microsoft to revise the operating system to support it, and even after this they can only sell it to people with the modern version of operating system. The elegant resolution to the problem of constantly evolving hardware and package is the driver. This is a little, renewable segment of software that addresses the communication between a computer hardware part and Windows operating system. The device driver is expected to tell Windows what’s going on, Windows operating system doesn’t care how the component is doing. A great many device drivers are developed into Windows operating system covering most of the common hardware devices from senior manufacturers. If a business produces a new component or makes changes and betterments to an existing item, a new driver is added to substitute the one built into Windows operating system.

Original manufacturer drivers
Device Drivers used to be issued on diskettes but these days they’re always on DVD and CD media. When you buy a ready-to-run personal computer, the PC maker pre-installs Windows and whole of the required device drivers, however you may still need the device drivers in case Windows becomes unstable. These may be supplied on a handful of CD-ROMs, but sometimes the computer manufacturer amasses them onto a single CD for your convenience, and if you’re really fortunate there’ll be a menu and help system to help you set up them. If your PC system apparently came without device drivers, it could be that they are set up in a folder on the hard drive of your computer system. This is a inexpensive alternative for the supplier and it might be convenient for you. It’s impossible to misplace your device driver CDs under a bundle of newspapers, for example but it can lead to problems if you ever so have to reinstall or replace the hard drive. In this case, you will lose all the drivers unless you first replicate them onto some form of backup disc. Its popular to misplace device drivers like letters and socks. They have the habit of disappearing whenever they are needed.

Amended drivers
It’s not merely drivers you’ve lost that need to be put back. Verifying that all your hardware drivers are up to date is an crucial aspect of tuning up your computer. Hardware manufacturing businesses often re-script their drivers to fix glitches in the master copies and to make betterment, so changing over to the virtually recent drivers might make your computer system quicker and add to its capabilities. The least, you recognize you are running with the drivers near promising to work reliably with the rest of the system. As to how often you should see for new device drivers, it depends whether you are experiencing problems with the old ones. If not, a fast check every eight months should be ok, but make sure not to leave it longer than twelve months and constantly update drivers as a preliminary to tuning up your computer. To make it less complicated to keep you knowledgeable of the handiness of updated drivers, some manufacturing businesses ask you to supply an electronic mail address when you download recent device drivers, with the promise of contacting you when substitutes become available.

It is well know whenever a computer is moved from one owner to another, by the time it reached the 3rd individual it has usually lost all of its device driver CDs it ever had.

Copyright Jo M Williams

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Author: Jo M Williams
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Outdated Drivers Can Increase the Risk of Hardware Failures

Have you encountered frequent crashes of your computer? Or have you seen the “blue screen” frequently lately? Be aware that this can be caused by outdated drivers. Outdated drivers, when not paid attention to, can cause a series of mishaps to your computer hardware. It can do one or all of the following: damage your device, corrupt your computer’s memory, or even cause damage to your motherboard. Here are the explanations.

When we neglect to update our drivers despite the fact that we have newer devices, the computer will force the use generic drivers just to be able to communicate to them. However, some computer codes of the driver may not be compatible anymore with such devices. Using the generic drivers will not always synchronize with them and if this happens, hardware failure will occur. Computer codes require an amount of electricity when executed. Older codes often require more electricity than the newer ones. It also follows that latest hardware require lesser electricity to function. If we use old or outdated drivers to new devices, we will be forcing higher amounts of electricity to a hardware that really requires less. This will cause a short circuit, which in turn will almost always damage your device or lead to the next problem which is a corrupted memory.

Drivers also consume part of your computer’s memory. Because drivers are sets of instructions used to communicate to devices, much of these instructions are queued to the computer’s memory and the processor’s cache. Outdated drivers often require more memory than newer ones because these drivers are not yet fully optimized. Again, newer versions of computer hardware require more optimized drivers that often require less memory usage. If we continue to use outdated drivers, then we would be using more memory than what is required. Continuous usage of a computer’s memory even if it’s not necessary will cause it to increase its temperature. This is because a lot of electronic current passes through the memory’s circuit. If we are not careful, and we don’t have a cooling system for your computer, then it will eventually damage the memory or even cause a third problem which is a damaged motherboard.

With the first two issues that are unaddressed, expect further that it will also cause heating of the circuitry of the computer’s main board-the motherboard. All electronic current passes through the motherboard, to the memory and processor, and to the devices. If excessive usage of memory and device is encountered, it will always result to excessive usage of electricity. When this happens, it will exhaust the connectivity between the motherboard and the devices. It can even cause the main board’s capacitors and other ICs to bloat and be rendered useless. When this happens, you will not be able to use your computer anymore.

Now you should understand that having an outdated driver can increase the risk of having a hardware failure. It can either damage your device, corrupt your memory, damage your motherboard, or do all of them. Updating your computer’s driver is not too costly. It is a cost that is worth incurring rather than having to suffer a larger cost of damaged computer hardware. It is also fairly easy to update your drivers. You can update your drivers manually, or you can use driver update software that automatically does everything for you.

Author: Curt Clemence
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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What You Need to Know About Desktop Hardware

Over the years computers have definitely moved from being a luxury to being a necessity. Companies and citizens rely on these machines to be able to so their jobs. This technology is responsible for the innovations that have proliferated in past and recent years and that will continue to flourish in the future. It is not necessary to know the inner workings of your computer in order to use it successfully. If you want to know what it is comprised of, below is an overview of the topic.

You should be careful however, since some of these parts could damage your computer hardware.

Along with RAM and Hard Disk Drive, the CPU(Central Processing Unit) will determine the speed of your system. Single Core processors were the standard previously, but now you’ll want to get Dual or Quad cores, as they’re much faster.

The motherboard will be the most expensive part of your computer. This is what the essential components are connected to. Including the Hard Disk drive, RAM, CPU and there are add-on components with some kind such as sound and graphics card and the LAN port. It is not worth saving a couple dollars to buy lower quality and unknown brands on key components for the system.

Not many people are aware of the hard drive. Especially when they are using it intensively installing programs, and storing media files The more storage that a drive has, the greater number of files and programs can be saved on it. The files are yours to keep for as long as you want. Just for your peace of mind that your memory will still be able to take it. Delete files you don’t use any longer to create more disk space. If you want, you can upgrade your hard drive or use an external storage device such as a flash drive or memory card.

Data from the computer itself is stored on the Ram for a temporary period. This enables the CPU to perform at its optimum capacity. Shutting down the computer deletes any data on the RAM.

The images you see on your monitor are displayed in large part due to your graphics card. More and more changes are being made in this area of computers as well because of the number of active gamers out there.

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Author: Ian E. Wright
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Computer Hardware – The Five Most Popular Computer Upgrades

Everyone with a computer is looking to have the fastest, and most efficient computer filled with the latest computer hardware technology. But to keep up with the continual changes as technology becomes more and more advanced requires complete upgrades on your computer. But, what are the best computer upgrades available?

Memory Upgrade

A memory upgrade is one of the most popular computer hardware upgrades and one of the easiest to do to boost the performance of your pc. But before you do a memory upgrade first check the BIOS operating system to determine how much memory is already on your system.

Also to upgrade your memory it will be necessary for you to open the case of your computer to find out how many modules are currently installed and how many slots are still empty. If all the slots are already filled you may have to remove the modules and replace them with larger ones.

Now, after finding out the current memory situation, review your operating system and application programs to determine how much memory is needed to make your computer perform at its peek level. In general, these programs provide a minimum and a recommended rating. So to reach the fullest potential of your computer, the memory should meet or exceed the recommended level.

Ok, so you now have some basic information to do your memory upgrade, but hold on a second, before running out and buying more memory, check your computer manual or go directly to the motherboard to find out what type of memory is supported by the current computer operating system. If you don’t check this out you will most likely get the wrong memory chips and the memory upgrade will not work.

Also keep in mind When buying a memory upgrade module, that it is best to buy the largest amount of memory with the least number of modules. This way, there is room for growth in the future. For example, instead of buying two 512MB modules, purchase one 1gb module.

Video Card Upgrade

A video card upgrade makes it possible to play all of the great games that are currently available on the market. In fact, some games are so advanced that they won’t play at all without a very powerful video card.

But it can be tough choosing the right video card since there are literally dozens available. It is very important to first take a look at the motherboard to determine what type of video cards are supported by the system, you can also check your computer manual on the types of video cards your system will support. The best video cards are the ones that transfer data the fastest. In order from the fastest to slowest cards are PCI express, AGP 8x, AGP 4x, AGP 2x, AGP and PCI.

Sound Card Upgrade

The sound card improves the sound produced by the computer. This makes computer gaming more enjoyable, as well as listening to music and watching digital media.

In order to install a sound card, you need to locate an available ISA slot on the back of your computer. These slots are the longest sockets on the motherboard and there might be other cards already installed in those sockets. There are two internal openings on each of the slots at the back of the computer. So, remove the access plate at the rear of the socket to insert the sound card. Make sure the access plate on the sound card covers the hole created by removing the initial access plate. But, be sure to gently insert the sound card with a slow back and forth movement, otherwise the sound card can be damaged.

DVD Player/Burner Upgrade

With so many digital videos becoming available, many people are looking to upgrade to a DVD player and burner combo. The most powerful DVD player/burner currently available is the DVD+R/RW. These do tend to, however, be incompatible with older DVD-ROM drives and DVD players. But the current big names in the industry, such as Sony, HP, and Phillips, support these players. DVD+R/RW drives are faster than previous models and are capable of formatting while burning data to the disc.

Motherboard Upgrade

Now for those of you who are truly serious about upgrading your computer hardware, motherboard upgrades are another popular option. But of course, a motherboard upgrade is the most difficult upgrade to do and I certainly wouldn’t recommend it if you don’t have a strong background in computers and electronics. For those of you who can manage, however, you will certainly enjoy the freedom of never having to buy a new computer. Instead, the motherboard can be upgraded as technology advances.

In addition to eliminating the need to buy a new computer, a motherboard upgrade also makes it easier to upgrade other components on your computer. This is because purchasing a motherboard ensures receiving the most up to date technology, which is then compatible with other upgrade components.

Upgrading the motherboard, however, requires serious advanced planning and reading of your computer manual. If you don’t do this correctly, your computer will be nothing more than a huge paperweight. If finished correctly, however, the computer will remain on the cutting edge of current technology.

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Author: Garry Allen
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Tips For Purchasing Computer Hardware

You don’t have to be a computer hardware expert to make a wise buying decision if you are equipped with some basic knowledge on both equipment and how to shop. Here is some information about the desktop wonder, as well as some tips on how you might want to go about buying it.

While you see computer programs and operating systems run, you cannot touch them; hardware is possible to see and touch. In contains the processor which is responsible for data processing; the hard disk drive that serves as the storage space for pictures and files; the RAM (Random Access Memory), that takes care of various tasks and maintains the smooth shape of the processes, the sound and graphics cards that let you possess clear photos in addition to sounds you’ll like; the motherboard, where all the parts are spread out and certainly the modem, for internet connection.

You should note the part that you need before you go to buy computer hardware. If your computer is running slowly you may need to switch out a few parts. Doing this gives you the chance to add to your savings. After all, everything else works like it should

If you already know your hardware requirements, going out and buying it will be a breeze. If you don’t have the money to spend on all of it, it makes even more sense. Your next step is to determine a budget. What is your price range for these parts? Canvassing first and then looking at the specifications is also common. You will find some hardware to be faster or have more storage. When purchasing a computer you should see what you need the computer for so you don’t buy one you don’t need. Consider purchasing a hard disk if you like to store files on your computer. If you take a lot of pictures, especially professionally, you’ll need a better graphic card. What you do depends on how you need to use your computer and what the requirements for that are.

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Author: Ian E. Wright
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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How do I know what type of graphic card fits in my motherboard?

Without buying or taking it in somewhere?

Answer:
Loos in your case. The very top slot. Look at it’s color. If it is white then PCI if it is brown AGP, if it is VERY long and white or blue. PCI-E

What ram should i buy?

My ram type is PC2700 DDR i would like to get 1GB ram. could anybody give me links to site where i could get it?Thanks

Answer:
You can go to several manufacturer’s sites directly to scan your system and get recommendations. You can then comparison shop on line (use a search engine with the specific memory) or get it directly from them. I’d be cautious with return policy on memory but you may do well to check newegg.com or tigerdirect.com once you have your specific info. Your system manufacturer may also have it….at a premium. Also, make sure you know how many memory slots your motherboard has as that may affect the RAM size you can purchase and install. (e.g. your current MB has 2 slots filled with 512 meg each. You’d need 2 1 gig RAM sticks to get to 2 gig and 1 to get to 1.5 gig while shelving the old RAM. Check your PC or motherboard Manual (usually avalable on line in pdf/Acrobat form) as they’ll usually have detailed RAM installation instructions. And remember…unplug every device before opening your machine…and ground…ground….ground yourself while seating the new RAM Examples: http://crucial.com/ http://www.kingston.com/ Good Luck

Im looking to build a new computer would my old Dell case be suffecient?

The case is a UK Dell Dimension 3100c circa 2005 Am i likely to have problems fitting new parts into this case and what sort of limitations am i likely to find.

Answer:
Like Merry January and Bjorn said, Dell uses proprietary cases that don’t follow industry standards. Most likely your motherboards won’t fit, the holes for the screws won’t align up, etc. Also Dell power supplies usually use a proprietary connector. It’s the exact same as the standard ATX 24-pin connector except it’s wired differently, so you’ll fry your motherboard if you reuse a Dell PSU.