Upgrading my PC - How do I know the mobo will fit??

[WildViper]

I have been trying to figure out if a mobo will fit into my existing PC that I am trying to upgrade. My existing PC is a Tower - do not know if it is ATX or mid-ATX or any of that. How do I find that out??

Sorry, but I am a nOOb at this and wanna learn how to upgrade.

My existing PC is a P3 and I was told that I will definately need a new PowerSupply. I am assuming I can use my existing memory(768MB) and my existing video card and other stuff.

I want to upgrade to AMD processor while keeping my cost down to maybe about $200. Is this even possible??

Thanx for any info.

 

[DaveSimmons]

If it is a P3, your case is either ATX (7 card slots in back) or micro-ATX (4 slots). If it is ATX, pretty much any motherboard will fit. Don't buy a refurb motherboard since it may lack parts you need like the metal plate for the ports.

Yes, you'll probably need a new power unless it is at least 300 watt (the label on it might say).

No, your RAM is PC100 or PC133 SDRAM, which can be sold for a little on eBay or in the FS/FT Forum but will not work with any modern motherboard (they use DDR RAM).

$200 is maybe enough for a motherboard, CPU with heatsink, RAM, and power supply -- look in the System Buyer's Guide thread. Remember you can get a little money back from selling your P3, motherboard, and RAM.

 

[WildViper]

Hey Thanx Dave. Appreciate your info. Will check what I have.