The Gateway 505GR computer is a recent model no longer available directly from Gateway. The computer may still be available online as a refurbished or used model. Whether you buy a Gateway 505GR computer refurbished or used or bought one new when they came out, bringing it up-to-date can be an efficient, cost-saving measure. Upgrading the Gateway 505GR computers instead of purchasing a new system is a good option if your employees need computers with a lot of processing power, but do not necessarily need all the bells and whistles of current Gateway models such as bluetooth, dual-layer DVD drives and the latest video cards.

It's easy to bring Gateway 505 GR computers up-to-date with a few basic upgrades such as more RAM and a larger hard drive. There are several things to consider when upgrading Gateway 505GR desktops.

1. Give the computer enough RAM for modern software. Upgrading allows you to customize the amount of RAM to meet your business needs.

2. Upgrade the hard drive of the Gateway 505GR computer. Hard drive prices have fallen considerably since the Gateway 505GR was released, meaning you can get more hard drive for less.

3. Keep Gateway 505GR desktops running with reliable technical support.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Upgrade Gateway 505GR computers with more RAM

Gateway sold Gateway 505GR computers with one gigabyte of RAM, which is sufficient for low-memory Windows XP software applications. It's a good idea to upgrade to the maximum allowable two gigabytes of RAM in order to run the latest operating systems and software. Alternatively, a smaller upgrade of 512 megabytes gives this model just enough power to run high-memory applications as long as your employees don't need to multi-task.

I recommend: Ensure you buy RAM that's compatible with the Gateway 505GR by purchasing from MemoryStock. MemoryTen also guarantees compatibility on this desktop.

Find sellers of Gateway 505GR computers that offer hard drives online

Large hard drives have come down in price significantly and are the most efficient way for your employees to store data. The Gateway 505GR uses IDE hard drives, no longer used in new computers, but still available in large sizes from some online retailers. A 320-gigabyte hard drive gives you plenty of storage for important data.

I recommend: Buy.com offers hard drive storage especially for businesses. Or, choose an external USB hard drive from TigerDirect. External USB hard drives are compatible with any computer and can easily be transferred to another computer when you do buy a new one.

Get technical support to keep your Gateway 505GR desktops functional

Whether you're buying Gateway 505GR computers new, purchasing refurbished ones or upgrading old ones, technical support is a necessity. Establish a relationship with a reliable technical support team so they're available when you need them in a hurry.

I recommend: Gurus2go offers technical support over the phone, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for businesses. They'll also come to your office if you need on-site support. Support your business' Gateway 505GR by using the technical support tools offered by Gateway.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Upgrading Gateway 505GR series desktops with a flat panel monitor gives your employees more desktop space as well as a sharper and crisper display.