Upgrading to a new Motherboard/Processor......

[BobTheWizard]

OK... I?m looking at an upgrade from a K6-III to perhaps an XP 1700 setup. I?ve kinda narrowed it down to 3 motherboards and need some input.

Shuttle AK35GT2

EpoX 8K5A2+

ASUS A7n266-VN

I've been reading the specs on these boards and all get pretty good reviews. Please give me some feedback as to where my money is going to be best spent (the wife is limiting my upgrade funding).

Also, how much difference will the PC2100, PC2400 or PC2700 memory make with this setup? How does major brands like Corsair compare (and why) with other lesser known brands?

I have basic understanding of this stuff, but I imagine I will understand better after this upgrade, eh? Heheh?


Thanks in advance?



BobTheWizard's Info

 

[cmdrdredd]

any of those mobos will do for you. I'd go for the best value. memory is a different matter. Names like Corsair are known for strict standards on the chips they select for the memory they sell. If it won't run at that speed with agressive timings in an overclocked setting then it doesn't get the stamp. faster memory like PC2700 or better will allow you more overclock room and more memory bandwidth.

This is just the simple basics here...get good brand (Corsair, Samsung) and high speed PC2700 should be fine. and you'll have a good time overclocking etc.

 

[Vette73]

I would go for the Epox, as it has the 8235 southbrideg that adds USB 2.0, and it is supposed ti have a 1/5 divider so it will support the 333FSB athlons down the road.

I had the shuttle board and it is a great board, but that was then, I would get a epox NOW.

 

[BobTheWizard]

OK.

Due to suggestions I have received, I have decided to go with the EPoX 8K5A2+ mobo.... I think I'm gonna put a XP2000 on it with 256MB Samsung PC2700 mem. Should be a good base for alot of fun.

Now, the problem is, I've pretty much used up the free cash available, so I'm wondering what the current video that I have will do. Currently I have an S3 Virge with a Voodoo 2 Blaster 3D. I plan to seriously upgrade, going to a GF4 TI4200 either 64 or 128, depending on the cash flow... but that will most likely have to wait until after the new year....

Any comments? This project started out with me wanting to upgrade just my video, but I was told that I should probably do everything else first.

Thanks for any feedback....

My current system....

 

[mrman3k]

Definetly go the Epox route! It won't let you down!