dual set up

[hojl]

got a question if I want a dual PIII set up, can I just get ANY PIII at the same rated speed or do I have to match the stepping and CCo Cbo and stuff like that.



thanks

 

[jsbush]

I would say any P3. I don't even think the CPU's have to be the same seed since you've got adjustments for both I think.

 

[hojl]

oh the speeds don't even need to match UP??
oh I have a MSI 6321 mobo if it helps, and I have voltage adjustment for both.

 

[toph99]

i have heard mixed opinions that the stepping has to be the same(cB0, cC0 etc.) and i'm nearly positive they have to be the same speed

 

[hojl]

uh any others??
this is because ideally I want to buy 1 cpu now and another later, but if I have to have almost exactly the same CPU then I should call and get matching stepping and stuff..

 

[lhampel]

It really depends on the Motherboard. To be on the safe side, I'd make sure the CPU's are retail & are the same stepping. Also check the Intel Website for more info. (Some steppings work & some don't)

 

[compuwiz1]

cA2 stepping PIIIs are not SMP compatible.
Since each stepping has corrections to improve them and also fix certain errata, you are best advised to use the same stepping and if possible from the same batch / plant / week, etc.
This will maximize your stability and freedom from errors.
Only the cb0 and cC0 stepping officially support SMP.

 

[hojl]

thank you all for expanding my knowledge of computers..
ONe last question how do I know the BATCH PLANT WEEK???
hehe
thanks

 

[compuwiz1]

Here is a hint for you. If you are buying cB0, they should be SL45Y, if boxed.
The batch number is on the box. So is week, usually something like Q032 That 32 would be the week. Q is the plant, I believe malay. The zero is the year, ie.2000.
The main thing is, ask the vendor and specify if you can. If they will not tell you or refuse to cooperate, then find someone who will. SL3XX is OEM bare cpu, but your chances of getting good chips are lessened there, as many pretest them and put the failures back for resale to the unsuspecting.

 

[hojl]

woah didn't know about that about the OEM cpu's thanks alot for the info compuwiz1. I will have to spring the extra 50bux or so per cpu for the retail version. Who would have thought that I would spring so much for a new computer, but I guess I am rewarding myself for holding on to my PI 233 this long. hehe

 

[elvisAteMySandwich]

Ummm, can someone explain what stepping is???

I thought I had my new dual cpu box planned out until I noticed this thread. Now I'm paranoid I'm going to get a good deal on a couple cpu's on the net ... only to find out they won't work together on my board.

Thanks,

 

[hojl]

I have the same problem somewhat. Ideally I wanted to buy one 933 cpu first and like in a month buy the other 933 cpu when the prices drop even more. BUT I am worried they might not work together.. I guess I shouldn't take that chance and buy both 933 together.