I recently got a gateway MX6959 laptop. It has 1Gb of RAM, and a 1.66GHz processor. I am planning to use the laptop for audio production. As such would benefit from upgrading the performance of the machine. Should I be looking at upgrading the RAM and CPU? My issue is that I am stupid when it comes to computer hardware lol, and I am confused as far as to what components are compatible, and what are not. I would ideally like to have 4Gb of RAM, and the fastest processor possible for around $100 altogether. Would I have to buy more parts then just a CPU, and RAM cards to complete the upgrade? I don't want the computer to over heat and blow up... I am running windows XP. How can I know which processor would fit into my motherboard, and which processor would perform to specification, and properly in this computer? How can I know which RAM cards to buy? I have know idea what to shop for !
You can upgrade the Memory up to 4 gigs, But the cpu, you will need to know the Motherboard make and model..
You'll have to open your laptop to check on the motherboard information stated above. But in most likelihood you'll destroy the warranty on the product and if you're not careful you can damage the laptop.
I would recommend a new CPU. This review guide for gaming CPUs may be applicable--it discusses various aspects and has links to Amazon where you can buy the CPUs. Many are affordable. Good luck to you!
The reply above is somewhat like a spam. Here is your laptop's specification according to gateway support website. Based from that, your laptop has two slots of ddr2 ram, and max memory of 4gb. So yes, you can upgrade your RAM to 4gb, using 2 sticks of 1gb DDR2 RAM. However there is no indication in their site about upgrading your processor, and if you are able to open your laptop (destroy your warranty depending on manufacturer and if you destroyed your laptop in the process of changing processors) it is most likely that you can only upgrade your processor to another Intel® Centrino® just with a higher frequency. In my opinion, you can't upgrade your processor.
