Which MoBo, memory and Win XP swapping issues

[fdkaplan]

Hi all, this is a great forum!

I need some advice for upgrading, it's taking a long time to figure out my best options...

Current config:
Athlon XP 1800+
256MB generic ram (512 total, but removed one for instability issues)
Asus A7V333
Chaintek Ti4400
Audigy XGamer
Yamaha CDRW
IBM 80gb
Enermax 350W

Problem: unstable even with latest bios (improved but still not good enough - at least one BOSD per day), can't play any 3D games.
Solution: buy new MoBo + Mem (?)
Question 1: Asus nForce2 Ultra 400, Asus nForce2 400, Asus VIA KT400?
Question 2: 512MB x 1, 256MB x 2 (twin pack)
Question 3: Crucial, Kingston, Mushkin, Corsair - value editions or expensive ones?
Question 4: can I swap Mobos without reinstalling everything?

Suggestions are welcome - I pick Asus because good rep and silent heat management - don't want a jet engine in my room

Thanks!

 

[microAmp]

The generic RAM might be causing your problems. Run Memtest86 to verify if it's good or not.

For RAM choices, Crucial PC2100, Kingston PC3500 HyperX, and Samsung PC2700 have always been good to me.