The most CPU intensive task that I use my computer is game playing. I know that I don't need an AMD64 to run MS Word.
Rig:
AMD 2400+, unlocked
Shuttle AN35Ultra
512MB PC2700, Kingston ValueRam
9800Pro w/ Arctic Silencer
Retail HSF(I have a ALX-800 and a Panaflo 12H, but it's not installed yet)
Raidmax 420W PSU
17" monitor, so I'm never going to be running at 1600x1200 resolution!
Currently, my overclock is limited because I haven't but the ALX-800 on yet. I like to do all my upgrades at once, because my computer is in an awkward place and it's pain to drag it out all the time, so currently, I'm running the Retail HSF. I figure, if I'm going to have to drag the thing out to put in the ALX-800, I might as well drop in a new CPU if it's worth it. Another limiting factor to overclocking is the fact that my room is damn hot, I can easily get ambient temps of 80-90 degress F during the summer, so there's not a lot of cool air in my room for good air cooling.
I only will add the CPU if it's worth it. If my 2400+ can run future games decently for the next 1-2 years, then I'd rather save my money because I'm planning to do my next major upgrade in a year or 2, after all the new hardware tandards are in place.
Rig:
AMD 2400+, unlocked
Shuttle AN35Ultra
512MB PC2700, Kingston ValueRam
9800Pro w/ Arctic Silencer
Retail HSF(I have a ALX-800 and a Panaflo 12H, but it's not installed yet)
Raidmax 420W PSU
17" monitor, so I'm never going to be running at 1600x1200 resolution!
Currently, my overclock is limited because I haven't but the ALX-800 on yet. I like to do all my upgrades at once, because my computer is in an awkward place and it's pain to drag it out all the time, so currently, I'm running the Retail HSF. I figure, if I'm going to have to drag the thing out to put in the ALX-800, I might as well drop in a new CPU if it's worth it. Another limiting factor to overclocking is the fact that my room is damn hot, I can easily get ambient temps of 80-90 degress F during the summer, so there's not a lot of cool air in my room for good air cooling.
I only will add the CPU if it's worth it. If my 2400+ can run future games decently for the next 1-2 years, then I'd rather save my money because I'm planning to do my next major upgrade in a year or 2, after all the new hardware tandards are in place.