What upgrades would you recommend for my older Macbook?

[anharper]

I have a Macbook OSX version 10.4.11 with a 2GHz Intel Core, 512MB 667 MHz memory, 80gig capacity. Purchased in spring of '06 for $2100. I want to keep this computer running nicely and at a fast speed for as long as I can. Like an old dependable car.
I want to make some upgrades to make sure the software stays relevant with technology and to ensure that I am taking care of it properly. Right now, I basically use it just for the internet and music. But will soon be using it for school (Industrial Design major).
I do not know much of anything about what sort of upgrades I should do. (Applecare has expired also)
Any suggestions/tips will be GREATLY appreciated! I have about $300-$400 to work with.

Also- the only two problems with my computer are:
Only stays on when plugged in. (Getting a new battery)
CD drive does not work. (Liquid damage) But I rarely have the need for it anyways.
Thanks!

 

[flopticalcube]

Buy 2X1GB of RAM to max it out. Use an external DVD writer if you need that, they are only $50. Get a bigger HD, at least 320GB.

 

[theMaccer]

Up the ram to 2GB (I think thats the max ur MB supports?), a faster hard drive, and snow leopard. All these wont cost u more than $150 - depending on wut hard drive u will get.

 

[brendu]

ram ram ram, then snow leopard, if you have another mac you can use its disc drive, a bigger HDD might help too...

 

[XxEjGxX]

Ram (2gb is your max i think) Snow leopard and then a nice juicy HDD to fill

 

[Bbusyb]

A few suggest upgrades

1) Battery (As you say, you need that to call it a laptop)

2) More Ram. Get the max Supported for your model, 2GB or 4GB as that will boost performance tremendously.

3) Hard drive - do to a 320GB or 500GB hard drive, as they can be had for less then $100.

4) Snow Leopard - Suggest you do a clean install on the New Drive and then transfer all you data to it using the Transfer wizard to get a complet clean install

5) External DVD Drive - Buy or borrow a External USB DVD Drive to Install the new OS , etc. Good ones can be had starting at $30+.

 

[student_trap]

upgrading the ram will without doubt give you the most immediate user experience upgrade.

Other than that its just the standard stuff mentioned above