Which step to take?

[PilgrimX]

Hi.

Right now I'm facing a tough decision: my P3 866MHz is working fine, but my Soltek SL-65FVB is starting to show evidence that it'll not last long (the parallel port is gone and stability is something from the past...).
So the decision I've to make is: should I buy a new mobo or upgrade the whole system?

My main occupation is basically web surfing, some gaming, and I'm now starting with digital photography... not too complex though... My graphics card is a GF2 MX440, I've 256MB SDRAM PC133 and a Seagate 40GB.
In terms of what I need the pc for, do you think it makes sense to upgrade to a new processor, like XP 2000+. My problem is that with this upgrade I'd need to change to DDR also. All these would cost, roughly, between 250 and 300 EUROS (more or less the same in USD). Not exactly cheap for someone who's getting married very soon.

If I go with choice #1, what mobo would you suggest?

Hope you can shed some light regarding what to do.

Thanks.

 

[T3C]

Welcome to anandtech

 

[Insidious]

IMO, it all needs updated. You've got bottlenecks everywhere (CPU, Video, RAM)

If you are limited in funds (which you sound like you are.... or at least WILL be once you take the plunge ) I'd suggest do the video card first. No need to go Top of the line.... Maybe a Ti4200 or Ti4800SE (Ti4400). (Don't repeat past mistakes with anything MX from NVidia.)

If you do the Motherboard, RAM and CPU, your video card will still limit you severly......
The same is true if you only do the Video card, but I believe overall, you will get more bang for the buck.

-Sid

PS: That is post #1 isn't it.... Welcome! :beer:

 

[PilgrimX]

Yes, it's my 1st post here. But I've coming to Anandtech for some time now...

Regarding the tip, thanks. I'll check prices (I read a lot about the Radeon - what are your thoughts about it?).
Nevertheless I have to change my mobo. Can you give me an advice regarding which one to buy?
I take from your reply that a P3 is enough for my need, right?

Thanks.

 

[Lynx516]

Well as you dont do much gaming as long as your games run as you would like them to you dont need to change GFX cards.
The big question is the computer as fast as you want/need? If the answer is yes then you just need a new mobo though finding one could be fun. If no get something that is relitivly future proof. So get a mid range Athlon XP 2000+ sounds ok.

Ok found a mobo you could get.
Mobo

Argh but you are in the EU (forgot) ok get anything that is Gigabyte,Abit,Asus,Epox or even another Soltek if you want.