Since computer hardware seems to be getting faster and improving daily, you will want to get a good benchmark tool to help diagnose your system. This will let you know if you need to go to the next generation video card or CPU.

Without this tool you could be tricked into buying something that isn't much better than what you have. Why not make sure by comparing your current system with what the so-called experts are trying to sell you? The newest technology doesn't always make that much of a difference. You can also compare how other users are benchmarking right on the author's site.

This runs extreme graphics at outrageous speeds and precisely tests your FPS (frames per second) rate. It's very similar to what your computer would be put through when running games. This also rates your system against others, giving you a good idea of whether you should buy that new video card, or faster CPU. It can also be used to tweak your existing system for better performance.

3Dmark2000 will diagnose your system and keep a record of each upgrade. You will find that it's very simple to use and gives you tons of information.