converting a single AMD to a Dual one.

[salf]

Heres the thing, my PC broke......the original thread of my problems is here:http://www.cgarchitect.com/vb/showthread.php?t=5525

 

But theres no need to look at that, the thing is that it appears that my Motherboard is the one thats busted, so I'll have to buy a new one, and I was thinking "well, since ill have to buy a new motherboard, why not add some more money and buy a double CPU one and another CPU", that way I will upgrade my system, using all of my current hardware, and without wasting that much money, now 3 questions arise:

 

1- Can I mix 2 CPU speeds? or it has to be the exact same speed? (i think is the later tho) I mean, my current CPU is an AMD XP1.7, can i use that with a new AMD XP2.0 for example?

 

2-Can you recommend a motherboard for this?

 

3-You think is a good idea?, I think so, cause all i have to buy is a motherboard and a new CPU, and maybe a new case, but then i could use my RAM, my SOund Card, my Video card, my HD, my current CPU, etc.....

[mtutaj]

Only the AMD MP line of processors are Dual Capable from that series. and they would have to be the same speed. I know there are other discussions on this in the forums.

 

Mike

[bigcahunak]

The original MP based Tyans (not MPX based) worked with mixed speed CPUs and even regular tbird athlons. After a short while, bios apdates took care of it and from there on it was MP CPUs only (or XP moded to MP).

You have 2 options:

1. buy a dual mobo and a nother XP1700+, mod them both to MP and hope it works dual for you. I dont know which mobo you had and whats your memory speed and brand, but most dual AMDs mobo are very picky with memory and tend to be sensitive.

This option will cost you more, and even if it works, you'd still end up with an older technology machine. You'll probably have to get a new PSU cause these mobo loves juice (demands it actually).

2.Get an Nforce based mobo. Its cheap, fast, has all the extras of modern mobos, supports all memories and video cards and its the option I'd go with

Good luck.

[salf]

buy a dual mobo and a nother XP1700+, mod them both to MP and hope it works dual for you.

 

lol......ok....

 

Yeah, I guess I will just buy a normal mobo, ill try the Nforce.

[Frosty]

Actually, there is a third choice:

Buy the dual board and use the single CPU until you can afford two proper MP CPUs. These are older technology as stated. The prices are falling as suppliers clear them out - what I've noticed anyway.

 

Ultimately its your choice. I would always pick dual over single CPU. Personally, I'd build a Dual Xeon with what parts you can salvage and sell the rest.