Buffer increase=Slight Performance Increase??

[PCNerdDude]

How would upgrading from a 256 kb buffer to a 2mb impact performance. My current drive in my computer is a maxtor 5400 rpm hd, with a 256 kb buffer. I use the computer for mild gaming (older games) and surfing the web. Windows 98 takes about 2 minutes to load up, and switching between programs is awfully slowly. It also is IDE 33. I was thinking of putting in a Promise IDE 100 to PCI card and a seagate IDE 100 hard drive. But would this justify the cost. (CPU is 400 mhz P2, 384 ram). Just wondering

 

[Dethfrumbelo]

Not only the buffer size, but 7200 RPM and a much higher platter density should all make a big difference.

Your rig is, well, really well aged, so it may be somewhat of a limiting factor.

 

[KoolDrew]

Why not upgrade to 8mb buffer? You can buy a cheap WD 80GB with a 8mb buffer.

 

[PCNerdDude]

Aged, yes, 6 years this past Christmas. The age factor is what is holding me back from deciding to upgrade the HD or not. I have a feeling it wouldn't be worth it, what do you all think. Thanks.

Edit: i just can't seem to justify an $80 or $90 upgrade...somehow it doesn't seem worth it

 

[PCNerdDude]

that WD looks nice...but i am hesitant, i had a friend whose WD died after 1 year (if even that). Oh, the other question i had..I have a 200 watt hard drive. Would i have to put a new PSU in if i put in the HD. Current setup is follows

P2 400 mhz
320 ram (i was wrong last time)
10 gb Maxtor 5400
CD-ROM Drive
Floppy
Radeon 7500
DLink Network card

If i would have to, then i probably wouldn't do any additions.

 

[Dethfrumbelo]

You'll be fine with your current PSU.

If you want reliability go for Seagate - they come with a 5 year warranty, and you'll probably never need to use it. They're quiet too.

30GB 7200 Barracudas w/ 2mb buffers can be had for ~$50.

 

[PCNerdDude]

Thanks for confirming the power supply issue. I haven't built a rig yet, so i am not real knowledgeable on PSU. I like the Western Digital 80 gb, 7200 rpm HD with 8 mb buffer, although Seagate is very appealing, like you said, the 5 year warrenty, plus being very quiet. How much time do you think upgrading would cut off of 98 starting up (rough times for both the 2mb buffer and 8 mb buffer) Also, would it make navigating several windows on my desktop easier and less jerky? I am not real knowledgeable on this topic either, so some help is desired. Thanks