Question: Do I need a mobo?

GMan[CSR] · Dec 28, 2003, 08:47 PM

Thanks for coming into the thread guys, here is my situation.

I have a Dell computer from early this year (January I think) and it came with a mobo that is currently supporting one 256MB stick of PC2100...

I'm sort of tight for cash, so is there anyway I could buy a 512 stick of PC2700 or 3200 and get a Pentium 2.4 processor without a new mobo? I've heard something about Dual Channel RAM, not sure what that is all about or if that is now the standard for all DDR RAM nowadays or what. I'm not sure if the mobo supports 800 MHz FSB... is there anyway I can get that answered as well? Any help would be much appreciated.

Also... perhaps I don't even need a new processor yet? Although maybe 2.0 GHz just isn't cutting it for the latest games... I've been able to run pretty much everything without a hitch though.

GMan[CSR] · Dec 28, 2003, 10:05 PM

Perhaps I just need a 512 stick of RAM? Any recommendations ppl?

Vampyromaniac · Dec 29, 2003, 02:02 AM

Hi there

What OS are you using? I'm guessing Windows XP . . . if so, I think you be best off just buying one more stick of 256MB RAM.
I think you would benefit more from the additional RAM, than the 2.4 GHz CPU when you factor in their prices.
As for 800 MHz FSB, I doubt your mobo supports it, since the 2.0 runs on 400, and I don't think Dell would put a higher-end mobo in their PC when they don't have to . . . if they were even around when your computer was made.

**Roadee** · Dec 29, 2003, 02:15 AM

It would help if we knew the model # of your computer.....or maybe a link to the specs of your computer on the Dell site.

GMan[CSR] · Dec 29, 2003, 02:31 AM

Sorry I don't have the model #... it is a Dell Dimension 5500 containing all the default Dell parts except for my softmodded Radeon 9800 (complete with RAMsinks). Do you think perhaps I should replace the 2100 with a brand new 512 stick of PC2700 instead? Or would my computer even support that...

**Roadee** · Dec 29, 2003, 02:59 AM

Having a hell of a time finding your computer on the Dell site.......can you give me the "service tag #" off of the back of your tower.......or type it in yourself at this site....

Dell Support

As a matter of fact......I can't find anything on a Dell Dimension 5500 anywhere!! Not even on the Crucial web site for upgrading memory.....and they list just about everything!

~~Optimummind~~ · Dec 29, 2003, 03:10 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by GMan[CSR]
Thanks for coming into the thread guys, here is my situation.

I have a Dell computer from early this year (January I think) and it came with a mobo that is currently supporting one 256MB stick of PC2100...

I'm sort of tight for cash, so is there anyway I could buy a 512 stick of PC2700 or 3200 and get a Pentium 2.4 processor without a new mobo? I've heard something about Dual Channel RAM, not sure what that is all about or if that is now the standard for all DDR RAM nowadays or what. I'm not sure if the mobo supports 800 MHz FSB... is there anyway I can get that answered as well? Any help would be much appreciated.

Also... perhaps I don't even need a new processor yet? Although maybe 2.0 GHz just isn't cutting it for the latest games... I've been able to run pretty much everything without a hitch though.

It seems your mobo only supports the 400MHz FSB. If that's the case, you won't be able use the newer CPU's that run off the 800MHZ FSB. Also, using PC2700 and higher memory is only good if you're overclocking (which your mobo probably dont' allow). Even if you were to stick in a stick of PC2700 or PC3200 RAM on your mobo, that memory won't run at that speed.

In order for you to fully utilize the RAM, your mobo and CPU would have to support it.

So, if you wanna use higher performing parts, buy a new mobo. Also, don't skimp on a mobo either. Buy a quality brand mobo. Stay very far away from ECS as possible. They are absolute crap.

I would recommend Asus, Abit, or Soyo.

Matth · Dec 29, 2003, 11:44 AM

Could you fit an alternative motherboard in the Dell case?

If not, then it's a case of putting the old graphics back and selling (or using for kid's or other relative's machine if appropriate) and starting from scratch - well, with a decent graphics card already...

GMan[CSR] · Dec 29, 2003, 02:45 PM

That would also be an issue...

GMan[CSR] · Dec 29, 2003, 03:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Optimummind
It seems your mobo only supports the 400MHz FSB. If that's the case, you won't be able use the newer CPU's that run off the 800MHZ FSB. Also, using PC2700 and higher memory is only good if you're overclocking (which your mobo probably dont' allow). Even if you were to stick in a stick of PC2700 or PC3200 RAM on your mobo, that memory won't run at that speed.

In order for you to fully utilize the RAM, your mobo and CPU would have to support it.

So, if you wanna use higher performing parts, buy a new mobo. Also, don't skimp on a mobo either. Buy a quality brand mobo. Stay very far away from ECS as possible. They are absolute crap.

I would recommend Asus, Abit, or Soyo.

Thanks a lot for all this information. So you think I should start from scratch rather then buy one more 256MB stick of PC2100?

~~Optimummind~~ · Dec 29, 2003, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by GMan[CSR]
Thanks a lot for all this information. So you think I should start from scratch rather then buy one more 256MB stick of PC2100?

It depends on your needs. If you're currently satisfied with the performance of your computer in all the things you do with it (gaming, watching DVD, writing papers, etc), then you shouldn't start from scratch and start all over. However, 256MB of additional RAM will increase your system's performance a bit although not very drastically.

On the other hand, if you feel that you want a faster machine, then it's best to start all over with a new mobo, CPU, and RAM.

Bane the ECF · Jan 2, 2004, 05:04 AM

Remember, Dell desktops use proprietary power supplies. You must replace the power supply if you install a new motherboard else you will fry the mobo, PS, or both.

Bane

dorkz · Jan 2, 2004, 05:18 AM

If you wona find out what some of your system information is (motherboard), then try installing these piece of software. It analyses all your system hardware/software and gives minute details:

Aida 32

Select personal version exe.

_______

256MB DDR PC2100 isn't alot of memory thesedays for most games, you'll find that 512MB of 2700 or 3200 would give you that increase. Your CPU seems fine to me tbh, upgrading that by 400MHz probably isnt worth it especially as Intel are quite expensive!!1

Hope this helped anyway...