I've got the itch...

[Cheeseplug]

I think that guy that bit me the other day might have just upgraded his computer, because I am feeling the itch to upgrade. Recently, my computer has been feeling kind of sluggish and starts up kind of slow. Even after a fresh install a couple of weeks ago.

I use my PC for everything. Movies, music, working, games. Lately a lot of Fallout 3 and Empire total war.

My budget is ~$275. I will buy from the united states, with no particular brand loyalty. I might overclock, but probably wont.

The machine to be upgraded:

M2N Sli Deluxe 570-32
AMD x2 5200+ windsor
ATI HD4850
2 GB DDR2 PC 6400
1 x 1TB Hitachi 7200 RPM drive
1 x 500 GB WD 7200 RPM drive
Lightscribe DVDRW
Zalman 92mm HSF
WinXp pro 32 bit
Awesome Ninja turtle sticker on the case.

I put in the 4850 last fall, and would rather not replace it. It has been good to me. I am thinking that my CPU and RAM are holding me back. Especially with the 32 bit OS.

If I did replace the MB/CPU/RAM I would have enough parts lying around to build a second machine, which I would then give to my parents, who are in need of a new machine. I would "sell" them my OS license and use the money to get a 64 bit OS (Win 7? Vista?) and take advantage of more RAM.

I hope to upgrade in the next couple of weeks, but have been out of the MB/CPU game for a while. What would help bring my machine up to code for multimedia and gaming?

Thanks guys.

 

[Cheeseplug]

Scoping the newegg combo deals and free shipping. spotted the following:

AMD Phenom II X4 940 + ECS A780GM-A for $200 flat no shipping.

OCZ Platinum 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 for $45 free shipping.

Should I jump on these tonight, or are there better options? With this combo I am definitely leaning towards getting it, and running Win 7 RC.

 

[Denithor]

Jump.

But I would suggest these RAM sticks instead: G.Skill 2x2GB DDR2-1066 2.0V. Lower voltage FTW.

And you're exactly right - use Win7RC for a year free to save even more cash.

 

[JessicaD]

Chesseplug,

I would jump on the deal as that is a great option and also take a look at Windows 7 upgrade (depending on what previous OS you had) as their upgrade deals for Win 7 start at $49.

Please note that the Win 7 upgrade option is for a limited time only and valid only while supplies last. To learn more about what Windows 7 can offer you Microsoft created a site with whitepapers, tutorials, walkthroughs and screen casts on all the ?under the hood? features in Win 7. Check out the Springboard site for Windows 7 on TechNet here http://tinyurl.com/832nco

Jessica
Microsoft Windows Client Team