2500+xp newbie question for oc

[compfreak999]

ok im considering getting like a compleatly new rig, want the mobo a7n8x-E and the athlon 2500+xp, im woundering if i get a locked 2500+ if there any way to unlock it? and how would i tell if it was locked or not? sorry im a newbie in the overclocker part of computers.

 

[Imdmn04]

U dont need to unlock the multiplier to overclock, all you have to do is to raise the FSB.
defualt 2500+ setting: 11*166=1826mhz
overclocked to 3200+ setting: 11*200=2200mhz
as you can see, the mutiplier is unchanged, but the fsb is raised to acheive the overclocked speed.

 

[Soulkeeper]

yeah just make sure you get some good memory
but even if you can't afford good memory you can always use mem ratios and run dual channel mode (two sticks)

 

[myocardia]

Originally posted by: Soulkeeper
yeah just make sure you get some good memory
but even if you can't afford good memory you can always use mem ratios and run dual channel mode (two sticks)

Don't listen to Soulkeeper, he only knows about P4's. Using memory ratios (running your ram slower than your processor) will completely defeat the speed advantage you will get from overclocking with an Athlon. Matter of fact, memory timings aren't as important for the Athlons as they are the P4's, although you will still notice the difference if you get some low-latency ram that will run at 2-2-2-5, compared to some that runs at 2.5-3-3-6.

 

[compfreak999]

hehe thanks! err i need new ram then, ive got errr 2x128 pc2100 really sad i know, can anyone explain what unlocking the cpu does?

 

[myocardia]

Having an unlocked cpu lets you overclock without having to buy new ram, or can allow you a higher overclock if you bought good components (ram included) to start with. However, the gains in performance you get from raising the multiplier are nothing compared to the performance gains from raising the fsb. Most people are wanting unlocked chips so that they can reach an even higher overclock. You really should invest in some high-quality PC3200 or higher ram.