CSflim

In a previous thread I talked about the fact that my computer had died. After replacing the power supply, I still had no joy, so I have decided that I am going to have to get a new motherboard. Which means a new cpu and new ram.

My current graphics card is AGP 8X, and pretty much all new motherboards seem to be PCIE. I dont want to shell out for a new graphics card right now, so onboard graphics is a must. I might at a later date decided to buy a new PCIE graphics card, but for now I don't need anything spectacular. My old motherboard had onboard sound, and I have been using that, so the new one must have onboard sound too.

I have three hard drives and one DVD+/-RW drive. All IDE/P-ATA. So the new motherboard will need to have two IDE sockets, for all four devices.

In short, basic requirements:
- Onboard graphics
- Onboard sound
- 2 X IDE sockets


Here's what I have tentatively decided on:
Gigabyte GA-M51GM-S2G

AMD Athlon 64 3000+

Corsair Value S. PC5300 DDR2 1024MB

A number of questions:
First:
Are all three of these items going to work with each other? The Motherboard is Socket AM2, as is the processor and the motherboard is DDR2 as is the memory. Is there anything else that I need to look out for, compatability wise?

Second:
In the Additional Information page of the motherboard description, under "Storage Interfaces" it lists "ATA-133 - connector(s): 2 x 40pin IDC - 2 Device(s)". It says that there are 2 ATA connectors (which can be seen in the photograph of it) but then it seems to suggest that they will only take 2 devices.
Is there any reason why I would not be able to connect two devices to each ATA connectior? Do you think that this could be an error in the description?
(for reference, a different motherboard lists "VIA VT8237A : ATA-133 - connector(s): 2 x 40pin IDC - 4 Device(s)", saying that 4 devices are supported by the 2 connections).

Third:
What do you think of my choices? Anything you would change? Or maybe you would go for three completely different items. Bear in mind that I am on a budget. I don't mind spending somewhat higher than what I have picked out, just not massively higher.

Fourth:
Anything in general that I should be wary of when replacing a motherboard, cpu and ram? Any advice?

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Halx

First, as far as I've found, socket AM2 boards are the only AMD boards that support DDR2, so you're good there. You didn't bother with any dual-channel memory, nor is the board set up for it, so you're also good there.

Second, unless something changed, the nature of ATA controllers is that they can support 2 devices per channel. Assuming the specs are correct, I would choose a different board.. because...

Third, you have chosen a micro ATX board. This means you're paying more than you need to, unless your case only supports the small motherboards. Get a full ATX board, with even more expansion slots, that uses the same technology we know and love, and leave that specialized bullshit for the case modders.

I've just got this sneaking suspicion that the fact that it is a micro-ATX board, it will not support 2 devices per channel.

Fourth, you're gonna have to reinstall your OS, for starters. When you put everything in your case, make sure you're doing it right - ground nuts in place, etc.

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Dilbert1234567

The motherboard does support dual channel memory, and it needs DDR2 800, not 667. it does support 2 devices per channel on the IDE.

I’ve never heard of that web page, if you’re in the states; go for newegg.com great prices, service and selection. the only reason i plug them is because I have received consistent, wonderful service from them.

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CSflim

Ok, thanks both of you for your replies. Dilbert: I can't use newegg as I live in Ireland, and they don't deliver outside of the US.

I have changed my mind on what to get, and have chosen a special 'upgrade bundle':

Upgrade Kit Intel Pentium D 820, Mainboard, 1024MB DDR2, PCI-Express, VGA

which contains:

Intel Pentium D 820 2.8GHz
ABIT SG-95, SIS662
Corsair Value S. PC4200 DDR2 1024MB

Any thoughts? The onboard graphics on the motherboard is possibly rubbish. Listed as "SiS 662". However, I only need something to keep me going. I will probably buy a decent graphics card in the near future.

Alternatively for an extra €30 I can change the processor from a Pentium D 820 to a Pentium D 915 at the same clock rate. Is this extra worth while? Link

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cyrnel

CSFlim, did you put this together yet? I share your opinion of the SiS video though sometimes it works out just fine.

I just helped a friend put together a quality low-buck upgrade by surfing the newegg and zipzoomfly specials with him. The deals on good parts are fleeting so you have to be ready to pounce.

If you're done, nevermind. If not maybe we can give this another group attack.

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CSflim

I have already ordered the parts cyrnel, but thanks anyway for your offer to help!

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shortynickel

How's the new computer working out for you??

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What type of...

"Parents have forgotten how to be parents" Aaron Lewis

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Marvelous Marv

When I need a lower-end computer, I try to find one that the store assembles.

My wife's died, and since she mainly used it for e-mail and word processing, I bought one with an Intel 2.0 Ghz Celeron, 256 meg memory, 450 watt power supply, and an 80 gig 7200 SATA hard drive. The motherboard has two IDE sockets. It had a Sony CD drive, which I immediately replaced with an old DVD writer I had around. Onboard sound and graphics. No OS.

$179 plus tax, and I didn't have to worry about compatibility.

If that helps.

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CSflim

Ok, Well I have since gotten my machine up and running, and it is going well. Thanks all for your replies.

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