P4 3.06 or 2.53 OC? Newbie with questions

[Jbroad572]

I'm going to building a new computer within the next couple of months and had a few questions. I originally wanted to purcahse a P4 3.06 processor. In the next few months I heard the price will go down but not by much. Lets say I build the computer in July do you think there will be a better CPU by then? I saw in a signature, a guy OCed his P4 2.53 to 3.30 ghz. When OCing a CPU does that decrease the life of it? That would certainly save me alot of money. Are there alot of variables to be considered or can I just rely on you guys to help me out ? What is HT and what are the advantages?

 

[Valvoline6]

By July there's going to be some new choices, namely the 800 FSB processors and motherboards. If you wanted to buy right now and OC I would say get a 2.53b... The 2.4b and 2.53 are the best bang for the buck. I don't think OCing shortens the life of the processor as long as you do not crank up the voltage. I run mine at default voltage only. There are variables in processors and memory that will affect your ability to get over 3 GHz. If you know what to look for you can increase your odds. I would also read Overclockers forum for some info on how to find the right chip. My cpu is a 2.53 OEM from outpost.com.

I think it comes down to wether or not you're gong to build now or this summer...

 

[human2k]

P4 VID C1 steppings seem to very hot, they do 3.2GHZ easily on air (from what ive seen), but then again next month 800MHZ P4's are coming out. SHould knock down prices.

 

[jhites]

Save the $300 difference and get a 2.53 which will do 3.06Ghz easy.

You can get all the help that you will need here in the forums