Super Moderator When running 3D games there are a few things that can be done to make sure you are getting the best performance.
1. Frequently check for graphics card and sound card driver updates. Make sure you fully uninstall the old drivers and do a fresh install of the new ones.
2. Make sure you have the latest or most compatible and stable DirectX version installed. To test DirectX for errors use the DirectX diagnostic tool (dxdiag.exe). For information about DirectX diagnostic tool and how to run it follow this link: http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;q190900
3. Visit the official sites for the games you play and check for game updates and patches.
4. Defragment your hard drive when needed. To defragment your hard drive under Windows XP use one of the methods in this link:http://support.microsoft.com/default...305781&sd=tech
5. Make sure your computer meets the system requirements for the game you want to play, or upgrade your hardware for the best compatibility
6. Check through any readme files found on your games CD/DVD-ROM. Readme files may point out any known issuse with the game.
7. Close all other programs to free up system resources. Doing a "clean boot" is a good way to close all programs and services that are not needed to run games. To do a clean boot under Windows XP follow the steps in this link: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353
Note: dont forget doing a clean boot disables your antivirus and firewall programs.
8. Test different in game configurations like screen resolution and graphical detail until you find the a good balance between performance and visuals.
Junior Member
Something you may already know. One of the games I play (IL2 Forgotten Battles) sugests using the catalist 4.1 drivers not the newest ATI drivers. It is always a good idea to view the readme files for the game you want to play.
And this gets a sticky. Good job cache!
Super Moderator thanks for pointing that out flyfsh. ill add it to the original post.Originally Posted by Flyfsh
