From choosing overclocking tools and setting the optimal mode to allowing the fulfillment of the potential of a PC's components, this reference discusses solutions to the problem of computers not performing well enough to accommodate requested tasks. Examined are the particular features of using processors, memory, video adapters, and hard drives both in moderate and extreme modes while trying to obtain a substantial rise in performance for both old computers and computers that contain more modern components. The results of testing computers with various configurations that have overclocked components are also demonstrated. A list of helpful web sites pertaining to acceleration is provided, as well as a guide to choosing components. Also covered are several advanced overclocking topics such as ways of making the CPU and motherboard compatible and the problems with overclocking IDE devices.