Steven T. Budaj wrote:
> I have a ZEOS Pentium 90. Due to motherboard limitations,
> the CPU cannot be upgraded. Over the years I have upgraded
> almost all other components, (HD 6.4GB, 56k modem, etc,
> etc).
>
> Instead of buying a new computer, I would like to upgrade
> the motherboard and CPU. I am thinking of a BX motherboard
> (for future upgrade possibilities) and a Pentium II 300 Mhz.
> It seems 300 Mhz is the "sweet spot" as the price increase
> to 350 or 400 seems to be substantially more expensive. Of
> course I would upgrade to 100Mhz RAM as well, then keep my
> other current components.
>
> My questions are as follows:
>
> 1. Is this a good idea (as opposed to buying a new system)?

In the long run it will cost you more to do it this way, but you will
know the parts in your machine which will make it worth the extra
expense.

> 2. Should I go faster than 300 Mhz?

Depends on how much you want to spend.  I went with the Asus BX board a
few months ago and figured since I was spending the money, spend it all,
and went with the 400 Mhz when it came out.  Do I notice that big a
difference from my 133 Mhz PI, no.

> 3. Are there any suggestions as to motherboard brands I
> should/should not consider?

I prefer the Asus boards, they are well designed and well supported.  I
was originally shipped an Abit board from the company I purchased my
parts from and there was noticeable difference in speed, the board was
small, had both two COM ports, three fan power/status ports on the
motherboard, and more benefits than I can name here.  One of the more
interesting ones is that the board has jumper for up to 8x the clock
speed, so it looks like this board could support an 800 Mhz chip, as I
am using it at 4x for the 400.

> 4. Are there any other issues I should know about?

You are going to have to buy a new case.  The BX boards will most likely
be ATX which will require an ATX case.  If you don't need the room of a
full tower, I recommend the Enlight cases, easy to work on, and what I
bought.  The only problem I have is that mine is full, four hard drives,
a 3.5 floppy, and a DVD drive.

Hope this helps you out,

Robert