If your computer seems sluggish lately, it may need a faster CPU, or more memory.

In this article, I'll show you how to do these upgrades!

Before you begin you will have to configure your motherboard to work with your CPU (also known as the central processor unit) and the MEMORY MODULES.

Referring to your motherboard owner's manual, locate the small black plastic jumpers associated with the type and speed of the CPU (central processor unit) and memory modules you are using. Some newer motherboards are jumperless. These boards can be configured later in the SETUP or BIOS program.

Remove and replace jumpers as per your motherboard owner's manual. If you are replacing your current central processor unit you will have to remove your old one first.

On an ATX SLOT 1 system the CPU is a large module that will be standing vertical on the motherboard. Push the CPU latches inward before you carefully pull the CPU up and out, then unplug the CPU fan connector.

On an AT type board, locate the CPU. The CPU is a large square chip with a fan mounted on top. On its socket will be a release handle, pull up on the handle and the CPU will be released enabling you to pull it out. Unclip the fan and heatsink so you can reuse them with the new CPU.

Now you can proceed to installing the new CPU. I will start with instructions for the ATX type slot 1 system first. On an ATX system you'll have to install a retention mechanism, also known as the CPU mounting support, that usually comes with your motherboard or CPU.

If you were not supplied with this mechanism you will have to purchase one separately before you continue. Install the pegs into the motherboard.

Some ATX slot 1 processors come with the heatsink and fan already mounted, if yours doesn't you will have to purchase one separately and snap it onto the CPU. Slide the heatsink supports onto each end of the heatsink. Push the CPU latches inward and slowly slide the CPU into the mounting support making sure that the heatsink support holes align with the pegs. Slide the clips out until they snap in place with the pegs and then slide latches out. Plug the CPU fan wire into the motherboard connector marked CPU FAN.

On an AT type system locate the large white socket on the motherboard. Make sure the release handle on the socket is in the up position. Mount the heatsink and fan onto the CPU by snapping the plastic clips over the CPU chip. Turn the CPU upside down, pins facing up. Orient the pin layout to match that of the socket. Place the CPU gently over the socket and press down. Push the release handle down to lock it in place.

Now you can proceed to install the memory modules. Memory modules are small circuit boards that contain integrated circuit memory chips. Check your motherboard owner's manual to see what type is required for your particular system.

Locate the memory sockets on your motherboard. If you are upgrading your present system you may have to remove some expansion cards to gain access to them. There will be 2 to 4 sockets depending on your particular motherboard.

To remove the old modules check to see if there are clamps on the sockets, if so gently pull them out to release the module. Tilt the module towards the clamps and gently pull it out.

Never exert force on the modules. If there are no clamps on the sockets use 2 non-magnetic Flathead screwdrivers by using one to release it and the other to pry it up gently. Loosen one side at a time.

The modules will only fit one way. You will need to refer to your owner's manual to determine the proper placement of the socket. Some install on a 45-degree angle while others install straight up.

Gently press it towards the back of the socket until it snaps in place. Remember it will only fit one way. Press down easy until it snaps in place. Do the same for the remaining memory modules.