4 Reasons to Upgrade Your Motherboard

                If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that the most limiting factor concerning any computer isn’t its peripherals, its hard drives, or even its processor: it is the motherboard. While having an awful processor will certainly put a lockdown on your personal computer or server, that is a problem which is easily diagnosed and fixed. Upgrades are easy enough, and when it comes to boosting performance, there are many things to be said about doubling your processor speed, expanding your RAM, or getting multiple storage drives. That being said, none of it is possible unless your motherboard allows for it. It’s the skeleton of your computer, and no matter how much muscle you try to stack on, there’s no use unless the skeleton is strong enough to support it. Since your motherboard can severely limit your computer’s/server’s prospects, you may want to consider your motherboard as a primary target for upgrades before you even touch the other components. Here are five reasons to upgrade your motherboard.

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Limited Ports. If you’re using a server with only a few USB ports, there’s going to be problems. Your server is a central hub of data communication and collaboration, which is why you need several ports available for peripheral attachments and speedy direct user interface. If your current server only has two or three USB ports, it’s time to consider a new motherboard.

Outdated Interfaces. If your server/computer is only supporting something ancient like USB 1.0, then it’s time to move onto a new motherboard. Get something that has USB 2.0 and 3.0 accessibility as well as Firewire. Also, having ancient and outdated PCI card slots can hinder your server’s performance. If you want your server/computer to have modern video capabilities, for example, then you would need to opt for a motherboard supporting HDMI connections and multiple video output options.

RAM Support. If your current motherboard only supports a few sticks of relatively low-capacity RAM kits, then it’s time to upgrade. How much RAM is enough depends on the nature of your work. For a personal computer, your motherboard should allow you to upgrade to at least twelve gigabytes of RAM. For a server, you should be able to expand up to thirty-two gigabytes of RAM. If your server’s motherboard is filled to capacity but still only has four gigabytes of RAM, you’ll want to look into a more modern motherboard.

Processor Support. If you’re running a server, you may want to consider a motherboard which supports multiple processors. Since a server is tasked with so many mission-critical applications, slow processing speeds are unacceptable. A motherboard which allows for more than one processor allows for greater speed and efficiency.

When I needed to upgrade my server, I started building from the foundation up, as necessary a step in the world of computers as in the world of construction. My 507686-001 motherboard allowed for the future component expansion I needed. Planning for your future needs is essential in choosing the right motherboard. Just remember, you’re planning the structure of your computer for years to come. Quality now is an investment in the future.