CPU speeds and other stupid questions

[lexis]

Hi everyone, I'm a total newb when it comes to computers and i'd really appreciate some help with the following:

1) I've read that clock speed is no longer the primary indicator of cpu speed as developers are trying to make use of new technology to get as much as they can from current speeds.

If this is the case, then what should an average Joe like myself look for when buying a computer/cpu?

2) Is the motherboard I have on my computer (it has an AMD sempron 3200+ CPU) going to be a compatible with an intel CPU? How do I find out what my motherboard is and what it is and isnt compatible with?

3) Can I change my cpu without affecting my hard disk? Will everything run normally once I just switch my cpu around?


Thanks!

[lexis]

Also, if my computer came with DDR1 RAM, does that mean it's slots wont support DDR2?

Thanks again!

[PrntRhd]

Architecture of the CPU and supporting chipset is also important and may affect performance (throughput). It is not all about clock speed, but AMD is unable to keep up with Intel on clock speed so AMD's new marketing campaign will stress clock speed is not so important.

If you are not running full performance applications you would be happy with any modern computer with either Intel or AMD so long as it is configured well.

I recommend SIW (free download) "System Info for Windows" to see what mainboard you have:
http://www.gtopala.com/

Mainboards are specialized as either Intel or AMD compatible because the mainboard provides the supporting chipsets for Intel or AMD processors.

The mainboard specs will determine which RAM types are supported.

[lexis]

Thanks dude.

I d/led the System information for Windows.

How do I find out whether my mainboard specs are compatible with which kinds of RAM?

Thanks.

[PrntRhd]

Once you know the mainboard number you can Google the name+model+specs, or go to the mainboard manufacturer site to call up the specs.