What Graphics Card should You Upgrade to?

A graphics card upgrade is necessary for older computers that lack the ability to handle the higher graphics demands of most newer software packages. This is especially true of for gaming where an increased graphic capability is needed to provide superior graphics and visuals. Choosing the right graphics card to upgrade to depends much on the type of computer that you own and the ability of the motherboard or microprocessor to handle the graphics capability.

Where the Graphics Card is Connected

The graphics card is connected to the computer's motherboard. It is through the graphics card that instructions are sent to handle the algorithms and other calculations necessary to render images onto your computer's monitor. The faster the processors that are in the computer, the faster the image will appear. In some cases you need to examine your computer to determine whether it is best to upgrade your graphics card or simply purchase a new computer capable of handling the faster calculations and graphics capabilities.

Overclocking is Discouraged

There are recommendations that suggest to change the clock speed of your computer as oppose to buying a new graphics card. This process, known as overclocking, causes your processor to speed up and match the processing speed of the graphics card. While this may provide a temporary solution to your graphics problem, it is a solution that comes at a cost. Speeding up your clock to make your computer run faster may in fact invalidate the manufacturer's warranty. This is because the graphics card, when functioning at a normal rate, throws off a lot of heat. This is why the graphics card is located near the fan. Overclocking causes the fan to work even harder, which may eventually cause it to fail. If this happens your computer will stop functioning properly.

Purchasing a Graphics Card

Your computer should have an expansion slot or some other area for plugging the graphics card into. The upgrade should match the speed and ability of the processor that you have for your computer. If you are unsure about what the speed and capability of your computer is in order to find a suitable upgrade, take the computer with you when looking for a new graphics card. You can also download specifications for your computer online, which may be useful to the technician or service representative that you work with for a new graphics card upgrade. 

Matching Your Graphics Needs

Determine how you use your computer in order to best determine which graphics card is best for you to upgrade to. If you are into gaming and heavy computing that requires a lot of graphics, you should go with a high powered graphics card with a lot of RAM. This type of card will give you peak performance and meet the needs you have for graphical output. If your needs for graphics is much less than that of a gamer, a standard graphics card should be sufficient.