Choice of which computer to upgrade

[BBJ]

Here's a question that I hope is not too general: I have two Dell desktops I recently came upon and I want to upgrade one of them, specifically in terms of RAM and a graphics card. I know they aren't great systems, and I don't expect anything overly spectacular out of them, just more than what they have now. I'm on winter break from school and I have one here and one back at school. Here's what I know about the two rigs:

1. Dell Dimension 3000 -- 2.8Ghz P4 processor
(Currently has 512mb RAM, 92mb total system video mem. (assuming 64mb built in))
graphics - Only PCI slots
RAM - DDR 400 (PC 3200) compatible 184 pin - up to 2 Gigs
80GB 7200 RPM HDD, no expansion slots

2. Dell OptiPlex 2XX (not exactly sure - it's the one at school) with 2.0Ghz P4 Processor
(Currently has 256 mb RAM, 64 mb video built in)
graphics - has at least AGP slot, possibly PCI-express
RAM - DDR or DDR2 - up to 4 Gigs (not sure, probably DDR)
40GB 5200 RPM HDD with room for expansion

I don't do any heavy gaming, but use Photoshop and other large programs like that which lag the system, and it would be nice to be able to play Flight Sim X, just so you get an idea of what I use it for. (I'm a student)

My basic question is about the tradeoff between a faster processor and better peripherals.

Is the loss of 800mhz processor speed worth better/faster graphics cards and RAM? I honestly don't know how much of a difference all of this makes, which is where all of you come in. I'd appreciate any insight/help. Thanks.

[Masaki 7-11]

Are you sure you have the right specs for the second computer? I haven't heard of anyone running a 2.0GHz P4 with DDR2 ram, I would take a look at the specs again.

Other than that, I would suggest going with the first build since the 2.8GHz P4 should have numerous advantages over the in addition to the 800MHz boost. I would look at upgrading ram to 1GB, and buying a geforce 6200 pci video card.

[BBJ]

You could definitely be right about the DDR 2. It's the one down at school and I don't have access to it at the moment, I was guessing on the RAM type based on what I saw on the Dell website. The other specs I'm sure about though.

Any brand you recommend on the Geforce 6200 PCI?

I was thinking the same thing because of the speed difference. What other advantages would the 2.8G P4 bring?

[Masaki 7-11]

EVGA is a good brand for Geforce 6200 PCI.

The 2.8GHz has an additional advantage in FSB, cache and possibly hyper threading.

[BBJ]

I have a 250W PSU in the cmputer, will this work with the 6200? I've read mixed things on different forums, as well as different specs from different websites. How do you feel about the Kingston Value Ram, or do you have any other suggestions for 184-pin DDR 400 RAM?

[Masaki 7-11]

250W is enough for the 6200 (it's the recommend amount) kingston ram has worked fine for me for over 2 years, am using the DDR 400 and DDR 333 type without any problems. If you can't find kingston or looking for a different brand, corsair is a good brand.

[Cricket]

Originally Posted by BBJ How do you feel about the Kingston Value Ram, or do you have any other suggestions for 184-pin DDR 400 RAM?

Don't use Kingston ValueRAM, they aren't as good as they used to be...they have high failure rates now. You do need to increase the amount of RAM in both computers (especially if you're running WinXP). Go to Crucial.com and use the memory advisor tool to find the right RAM for those DELLs.

Cricket

[BBJ]

Another idea just crossed my mind. If they were compatible, what would the potential problems/benefits be to switching the processors in the computers? Put the faster processor in the computer with the better peripheral support/upgradeability.

Thanks for the advice on the ValueRAM.

[Katreat]

That was my first thought when you listed parts but you will need to find out what the MoBo in the Optiplex supports. If it will support the 2.8 P4 then having a AGP or PCIe slot will really open up your choices for video cards. If you go with a more high powered video card you might also find it necessary to upgrade PSU though, so it add quite a bit of expense.

Kat