"Benchmarks" are indicators of performance among desktop and laptop models. Almost all retail computers are tested and "benchmarked" by major PC journals like PC World, and PC Magazine, to provide consumers with information and comparisons between makes and models. Speed and efficiency of the data transfers that go on between computer components are benchmarked. In some cases, you can improve your computer's benchmark scores to increase speed and performance, especially on desktop machines.
Benchmark Software
There are several brands of benchmarking software available on the market which can help you evaluate and improve your PC's performance. Some programs, like Futuremark's 3Dmark Advantage only test one component, like a video card. Other programs, like the very popular SiSoftware Sandra programs are comprehensive and will test everything on your computer. Beware of free programs offered for benchmarking, as some may be scam sites that will pass on infections. Most of the legitimate benchmarking programs are paid titles. While the Sandra Lite program is free, for example, and safe for download, the "Professional Home" version sells for $99.
Processor Benchmarks
When researching for the purchase of a new computer, always check the published benchmark scores for the processor. You can find these scores in manufacturer documentation and on the web. A program like Sandra Lite will compare the performance of your current computer's processor against the benchmarks of other processors under ideal conditions. Sandra Lite will also graphically demonstrate those areas of performance where your processor may shine or falls down, and offer suggestions for tweaking. In some cases, it is possible to upgrade the processor so long as the motherboard specifications are matched.
Motherboard Benchmarks
Motherboards are also commonly benchmarked for performance. While there is little you can do to mechanically improve the motherboard you have now, without replacing it entirely, there are some tweaks that can be used to improve "delivery" efficiency. Sandra Lite can recommend these tweaks after its benchmark scan is complete.
Memory Benchmarking
RAM memory sticks are benchmarked and compared by PC reviewers as well. A program like Sandra Lite can make recommendations about memory. To find out how much and what type of memory is best for your motherboard, consult a site like crucial.com. Remember that all computers are "happiest" when RAM memory comes in matched pairs, of the correct clock speed for the motherboard, and when they have as much memory installed as permitted by the motherboard specifications.
Hard Drives
Hard drives come in two main types, the older IDE format, and the newer, faster SATA format. They also are available in three speeds from the slower 4200 revolutions to 7200 revolutions per minute. The 7200 speed hard drives normally benchmark highest. One quick way to improve your computer's performance is to upgrade to the fastest and best hard drive that you can afford.
Video Cards
Video cards that are built into motherboards are often not the best hardware and rate lower on benchmarking tests that add-in video cards. A built-in video card often does not have enough of its own on-board memory and thus will have to steal memory from the RAM sticks, slowing down Windows performance. Upgrading video cards is an excellent way to improve your computer's benchmark scores. Video cards with 256 and 512 megabytes of on-board video memory are available at affordable prices and will make a significant difference in your computer's performance. Unfortunately, upgrading a video card on a laptop is not possible.
Tags: Sandra Lite, your computer, improve your, benchmark scores, improve your computer, video card, computer benchmark