Processer/motherboard replacement...

[kocheez75]

So my computer is about 6 years old and due for upgrade. Theres a few questions I have about replacing the processor and motherboard.

Current Setup: Dell dimension, PIII 800mhz

1. Will any motherboard fit in any case?
2. Will changing the processor require a reboot (or restore) of the entire system? Or is it like a plug and play device where i will just have to install the new drivers and will run as usual?
3. Are all processors compatible (running windows XP pro)? Im upgrading to the Celeron D 2.3

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1697047&CatId=0

Ive installed new hard dives, cd drives, video cards, ect...but never a motherboard or processor so im a little unsure about how to do it (but i think i have a pretty good idea). Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Jamxx]

...Okay. You're probably not going to like what I'm about to say...

1) No.
2) A lot more than a restore.
3) No. And why in the world are you getting a Celeron?!

However, for question number one, as long as you get a case that says it is MicroATX compatible (it will in the description) then it'll be fine. Changing the processor (and motherboard, in your case) will require a complete reinstall of your operating system. You may as well reformat in that case and back up all of your important data on CD's, DVD's, a flashdrive/external hard drive (this is probably the preferred choice).

You'll need to get a new case, too. I mean, you may not have to, but they aren't too expensive, look cool, and are usually a lot more roomier than the manufacturers' cases (like Dell, their cases are always extremely cramped).

 

[Gamingfreak]

as long as u get a case that is ATX not micro ATX because thats the tiny motherboards get one that says its ATX compatible then any motherboard will fit in, also the celeron is a useless cpu and i advise u dont get it if u have the money get an amd 64 3000+ theyre not to expensive and will do a million times better than a celeron also once u get a new cpu ur going to need a new motherboard anything made by ABIT, ASUS, DFI or MSI will be fine and make sure its a 939 socket, and yes u will have to reinstall i suggest u just back everything up and reformat and do a a fresh install it always works best

 

[kocheez75]

The main reason im getting the celeron is for the price. 69 for the motherboard processer isnt that bad. Its for my parents pc, so theres not really a need for anything much faster, just mainly internet and mabye some music.

 

[Jamxx]

Well, if you aren't doing any gaming and that's all you will be doing, a Celeron should be okay.

 

[Windwaker222]

Yea looks like a great price for a 2.9ghz celeron and motherboard. I'd say go for it.

Don't know if it would fit in the Dell Case, maybe but this one comes with a 450W PS and the Case.
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=983724&CatId=1843