Two quick questions...

[schowerpower]

1. Do programs like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop run faster with dual core's or is it more cost effective to get a better single core proccessor? I've searched the net and haven't been able to come up with anything, well, anything I can understand. I do a lot of freelance work in addition to my regular job, so I don't want to dump a lot of money on something I don't have to. But if I do benefit, I don't mind spending the money, like on an AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000.

2. Can I install Windows XP (Home) onto my new build and deactivate the one I'm running on this machine? This machine is pretty much outdated and will basically be retired, so it wouldn't need an OS after I build a new machine. I know I can deactivate Illustrator and install it on other computers.

Thanks for any help,
Mike

[newbuilder14]

1. I think you should get a dual core processor. It would come in handy when doing those renderings, and at the same time you can do other tasks as well. I would suggest to you an Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 if you don't mind dropping the AMD processor. I use one of these for a server and it is super fast.

2. Yes you should be able to.

[Staren]

1. Dual cores are much more cost effective now, and the newer tech. There arn't many single cores out there anymore that would out perform any current dual core.

2. It depends on the computer. If the older computer is a custom build, you should be able to do what you want, but if it's a pre-built Dell - Gateway - HP - ect then probobly not.

[schowerpower]

Thanks for the quick replies.

I bought and installed XP for my prebuilt Dell about a year ago. The Dell originally had Windows ME on, and I think XP was a upgrade version or something, but it cost me about $90 at Staples, I'll have to check on it when I get home.

[flanzig1]

If it is an upgrade CD, then you will need to find an older Windows OS cd so when you start the install, the XP will know you have a valid older OS.

[schowerpower]

If it is an upgrade CD, then you will need to find an older Windows OS cd so when you start the install, the XP will know you have a valid older OS.

Where do I go about finding an older Windows OS cd?

[flanzig1]

Check with family and friends to see if they still have an old Win 95,98, or ME install CD laying around.
You may be able to use the Dell ME restore disc if you have one.

[schowerpower]

Yeah, I think I still have the restore disc laying around somewhere, I'll give that a try. And thanks for the help.