Would like some advise on increasing my speed and quaility with my computer.I have an HP, Intel ®core 2 Quad CPU [email protected]Ram 4GB64 Bit Operating SystemNividia Ge Force 9500GSAlso with up grade would I need more power, I have 450 Watts Thanks for any advice on a good running upgrade for this computer.Dave SlagleDenver Co

What model of HP computer is it Dave? I'm asking this, as many - if not all, HP machines have both proprietary BIOS and OS.

CPU

Hello RandyWhat are his CPU upgrade options on that board.Absolutely none, the furthest he is taking that machine is a 9650 at a stupid price from Ebay.How would you suggest he upgrades his CPU ?

This is tough. Your CPU is nearly 4 years old and is the most important component for FSX performance, so is an obvious candidate for upgrade. However, it will be hard to find a new CPU for a 4-year old motherboard and would not be value for money anyway in comparison with a whole new system. Upgrading the graphics card is not really an option either unless you also increase your power supply, as you have noted. Your current system looks like it would need nealy 400W already:http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculatorlite.jspThat doesn't leave much headroom for a new GPU. Further, the difference in FSX performance from a new GPU may be disappointing anyway.In summary, I would not upgrade this system but instead save up for a new one. If that is not an option, get a new GPU and PSU. But beware! you might find your case struggles with the additional heat load, which brings you back to a new system again.Cheers,Noel.This post really should be in the Hardware section.

Thanks for the advice. Will get a new system. Looking at yoursystem it appears I need 3.4 GHz, 6 Gb.Dave Slagle

Your gonna need more than that for a decent FSX system. Go for Sandy Bridge and have the opportunity to overclock to 4.5GHz!