P4 to Dual Core

[di22y]

I am considering taking the leap to dual core processing but am unsure as to whether I will get an increase in performance or even if I can fit a dual core CPU into my motherboard.

I have uploaded a photo of the back of my motherboard box here which may help.

http://uk.geocities.com/di22y@btinternet.com/images/mboard.JPG

After browsing some online stores I came across these CPUs and my main concerns are the FSB?? and and the different names given to the processors baffles me. I have copied links to three examples I looked at and would appreciate any advice or comments on performance increase or whether there are better options for me to take. Also if anybody knows what the best processor I can stuff in to this board would be, give me a shout.

http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Components/CPUs+%2F+Processors/Intel/P4+Socket+775+%28800MHz%29/

and

http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Components/CPUs+%2F+Processors/Intel/Core+2+Duo/
I notice with these a lot of them have a FSB of 1333MHz and on my board specit states FSB with 1066/800/533 MHz

one more

http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Components/CPUs+%2F+Processors/Intel/Intel+Core+2+Quad/

as I said if there are other options I should maybe consider that aren't listed here please advise. All feedback appreciated.

PS: Probably should mention hat I currently have a P4 3.2 MHz processor in my computer

[jlreich]

Welcome to the forums. :)

Your board only supports the Pentium D dual cores. Here is your CPU support list (http://www.abit.com.tw/cpu-support-list/mb/intel_945p_al8_series.htm). The Core Duo's you linked to are not compatible.

The Pentium D was the very first Intel dual core. While it can't compare to modern dual cores it will increase performance over your single core P4 provided you get one that is mid-range or higher. It doesn't look like Aria PC has any Pentium D's though. I do believe there are some still out there, you will just need to look around. If not ebay may be a good place to look for one.

Depending on what you do with your system (like playing modern games) it may be time to start saving up for a core upgrade. If you can get a Pentium D for a reasonable price then that's fine. But I would rather save the cash and put it towards a new system. You can get budget CPU's these days that would smoke the Pentium D. Add in support for faster ram and just better modern technology... But you have to weigh your budget and needs.