Updating Ancient - Part 2

[debianne]

Hi again. The replys I got from my "...ancient system" post brings up yet more questions. The upgrade guide I have of this old pc describes the basics of how to upgrade a memory module or install a card. But there really isn't anything detailed about the voltage or "multiplier", whatever that may be. Is there something I can inspect on the board to determine the maximum voltage output. I tried accessing the NEC site and they only mention current models, nothing that dates back 6 yrs. And their email support requires that I have the serial number available, which I do not at the moment.

Anyway, the only way I know I can upgrade to a 200MHz is that in the appendix, there is a chart of jumper settings for various cpu's. There was also a chart showing the memory stick configuration combinations. According to that, I should be able to upgrade to 256MB of memory. I dunno about that, though, because of the chipset issue. That brings up yet another thought: Did you say that most chipsets do NOT allow for more than 64, or that most DO allow it, with one exception. I was not clear on that issue.

Thanks again for your help!
Debbie Erickson

[debianne]

I forgot something else. If I get a cheap 17" monitor for $140, will it work on most systems, even this old one? My friend wants to replace his 14" and I found a great deal on one for 17", but I want to know compatibility issues. It looks like the video is onboard the motherboard. Is this normal back then?

[hiredgoonz]

First, it's best to keep posts in the same thread so we don't get confused...

Most do not allow performance gains from over 64mb, many allow you to put more than 64mb in, but you lose performance instead of gain it...

This is only a problem with Intel chipset mobos though, if it's made by somebody else, you should be fine...

In that appendix where it lists the jumpers, hopefully there will be a voltage jumper listing, if not, it may be silkscreened on the motherboard or explained on a piece of paper glued inside the case (I have a compaq with this)

If there's no voltage setting, and the board does not support mmx cpus, you're probably stuck with upgrading to a plain pentium 200, which probably ain't worth it...

The reason is that the pentiums use 3.3v and the mmx's use 2.8v...you could probably run an mmx at 3.3, but you'd need good cooling...

The monitor should work fine, although the video card being that old might have trouble supporting high resolutions or refresh rates...as long as it has a standard vga output, it will work...

Onboard video is normal on a lot of OEM systems, cuts cost...

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When all else fails, read the instructions.

Microsoft Knowledge Base (http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;rid;kbinfo)

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[debianne]

Thanks for all your help. The book does indicate that I can use an mmx processor. The jumper diagrams just show what to set it to for the various cpu speeds. No voltage stuff. But, it shouldn't matter, as long as I stick to a 200mmx. Ideas on where to find them? I saw one on computersurplusoutlet, but how reliable are they? They have excellent pricing on the simms, at about $15 for a 32MB. And they are new, not used. I'm a little shy with the "if it looks too good to be true..". LOL!

[Steve]

http://www.compgeeks.com/products.asp?cat=CPU#Socket 7 CPU's

Compgeeks.com is a good site to check out. Pretty good prices. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

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Peace and Love, brothers and sisters. Peace and Love



[This message has been edited by Steve (edited 05-10-2002).]

[mjc]

I have used CSO before and found them to be failry reliable...

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[Paleo Pete]

[quote]No voltage stuff. But, it shouldn't matter, as long as I stick to a 200mmx.[/quoite]

YES, voltage does matter. As explained in the other topic, (where it should have stayed) the MMX chips operate at a lower voltage than standard Pentium chips. The higher voltage would cause a heat problem, so you would have to be sure and use a good heatsink and fan, and could fry the CPU.

Check the motherboard for silk screened jumper settings, Steve posted a link that indicated the board can handle MMX so it should have the right voltage settings for it. I just spent a half hour looking, no manual that I can find so far...

I was the first one to post a link to CSO on the forums, I've dealt with them for about 5 years off and on, never had any complaints at all.

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If your nose runs and your feet smell...
You're built upside down!
Note: Please post your questions on the forums, not in my email.

Computer Information Links (http://www.dreamwater.com/paleopete/computer.htm) has been moved, please update your bookmarks.

[Nooyawkah]

Steve, thanks for Computer Geeks link. They had a few items I've been looking for.
Larry

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They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night.
---Edgar Allan Poe