> -----Original Message-----
> From: PCBUILD - PC Hardware discussion List
> [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Jim Meagher
> Sent: April 8, 1998 14:32
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: [PCBUILD] AMD DX4-120 Fried?
>
>
> Sorry John, but I think you have oversimplified the alternatives.
>
> Most 486 vintage systems are running with 30 pin SIMMs so
> more likely than not, he will need new RAM. (I don't like those
> 30 to 72 pin adapters -- you've get a new fast CPU and then
> you throttle it down with old slow ram)

        With modest upgrades, the difference in RAM speed is negligible, most RAM
in 486s is 70ns, which will work with lower class Pentiums with minor timing
adjustments.

> I could be wrong, but I've never seen a 486 era MoBo with a
> PCI bus which means he has all ISA cards.  If he has more
> than 3 peripheral cards to transfer, then he will also need to buy a
> "PCI-something" to make up for the lose of slots.

        There are 486 boards out there with PCI slots, but I agree, it is doubtful
this person has one. Many of the earlier Pentium boards have 4 ISA slots,
and almost all have onboard multi I/O, so there is already at least one card
not needed.

> And how about the LBA/DDO issue?  Many times those drive
> overlay programs wreak havoc with upgrades.  So he could also
> be looking at a complete reformat and install.

        I have a little experience with overlays and they work very well,
considering they are software. TTYL