I know this has probably been addressed in earlier threads, for that I apologize. First here's what I have: Windows XP home AMD AthlonXP 1.2 512 MB Memory Maxtor 80GB 7200 hard drive The only things I run are DVD/CD authoring programs and internet. I'm looking to improve the speed at which encoding programs (ie avi to mpeg, etc...) run. Would a memory upgrade offer significant difference? Or do I need to do a CPU/mobo upgrade? I'm not a newbie, however I don't understand "hyperthreading" "dual core" etc... I really appreciate the help!
You may get some different opinions here. Encoding is CPU intensive, but you need the RAM, and a good vid card, for editing. I would update both the CPU and the RAM.
I agree with GrandpaBW but,my opinion just incase you don't have all the funds yet would be to get the cpu first,you have a good amount of ram.
Thanks for the info. Would an AthlonXP 3200 (2.2 Ghz) help a lot? Or should I get a lower end Athlon 64? TIA!
I know I'd need a new motherboard if I go for the 64. That's why I'm curious if there's a big difference from the XP
even if you get the 3200+ xp chip, you might still need to get a new board as the present board might not run a 3200+ chip when you are running a 1.2 xp chip
The 3200 barton has a default 200FSB. You need memory to match (PC3200) too! Your mobo needs to be 200FSB compatible for a 3200. It all depends on what you want your PC to do & how much money you wish to spend. You may want an SLi board if you go 64bit, to take advantage of PCI-Express & multiple GPU options for kick-ass graphics performance. As previously mentioned you need lots of RAM & a half decent CPU. I would be reluctant to go less than an Athlon2600. Pulsar
