How can I upgrade my system w/o upgrading my case?

[robcrawford]

I have an 18 month old ATX case w/250W p.s. running an older slot 1 PIII 500.
I've been upgrading other components but now want to upgrade my processor. I'd like to go to a P4, but don't want to buy a new case and power supply.
What is the best CPU / mainboard / memory combo that you would recommend for my system?

 

[AntecCSR]

Most likely you won't have to upgrade your case, although your power supply you'll probably have to.

I'll let more knowledge folks take over.

AntecCSR

 

[LikeLinus]

You'll definately need atleast a proper P4 powersupply. They have a seperate 2nd motherboard hookup.

 

[robcrawford]

What's the maximum size mobo/CPU combo that I can fit into my current case? And what would be the power requirements of that combo?

 

[LikeLinus]

Motherboards only come in 2 sizes for desktops MicroATX/FlexATX and standard ATX. So any motherboard out there that is Standard ATX, you can use.

The PS depends on the proc you want. But probably no less than 300 (with nothing more than 1 HD, CDRW/DVD, and standard comps). Anything more i'd get a 350watt or more depending on connected devices.

Sure you don't want a dell

 

[Budman]

Originally posted by: LikeLinus01
You'll definately need atleast a proper P4 powersupply. They have a seperate 2nd motherboard hookup.

If he uses an Asus board with EZplug he will not need a new psu,test your 250 watter first & if it's not enough you can always buy a new one later.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Originally posted by: Budman

Originally posted by: LikeLinus01
You'll definately need atleast a proper P4 powersupply. They have a seperate 2nd motherboard hookup.

If he uses an Asus board with EZplug he will not need a new psu,test your 250 watter first & if it's not enough you can always buy a new one later.

Does the Asus also not need the 4 case holes for the heatsink retainer?

An intel mobo won't work (needs the case holes) -- which other mobos do / don't use the case holes?

Also, a celeron 1.0 (non-Tulatin) or Powerleap tulatin may be worth considering since he'd save the cost of a motherboard, power supply and new RAM. A Tulatin 1.2 is about as fast as a P4 1.5 (faster for some apps). $150 for a Powerleap 1.2 GHz vs. (mobo + power + P4 + RAM).

 

[Bovinicus]

Even if your system would work with the 250W PSU, I would not recommend using it. It would SERIOUSLY stress it out, possibly causing it to die quite soon. In addition, the system may work, but not be as stable as it should be. That is a common problem with underpowered systems. Too many people underestime the necessity to have a good PSU. 300W is minimum, 340W+ is preferable. The P4 draws A LOT more power than a P3-500.

 

[amdskip]

Originally posted by: Bovinicus
Even if your system would work with the 250W PSU, I would not recommend using it. It would SERIOUSLY stress it out, possibly causing it to die quite soon. In addition, the system may work, but not be as stable as it should be. That is a common problem with underpowered systems. Too many people underestime the necessity to have a good PSU. 300W is minimum, 340W+ is preferable. The P4 draws A LOT more power than a P3-500.

exactly but don't get a >400 watt power supply because it's not needed.

 

[dszd0g]

I agree with those that say that the 250W PSU probably won't cut it. I would recommend a good quality 350W.

 

[thomsbrain]

i don't know about other brands but my abit doesn't need a special case. and heres another vote for you NEEDING a better power supply if you go to an athlon or P4.