Q: I have this COMPAQ - http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/genericDocument?docname=c00835809&cc=us&dlc=en&lc=en&jumpid=reg_R1002_USEN Can I put in a new mobo and cpu? Any suggestions as to what would be best for gaming for around 80-100 dollars? Thx you!
A: Your mobo is fine and should accept most newer intel cpus. The p4 is not really even that bad. If you haven't upgraded the graphics card, that will be the most important for gaming. Given that your motherboard is old and has a maximum of 800 front side buss, I suggest this CPU as one of the best upgrades available. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116063 I would recommend purchasing a video card first. The video card is by far the most important part for gaming. This Radeon HD 3850 512mb (eats 8600GT for breakfast) would be about the best way to put $100 into a gaming machine like yours I can think of: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102715 Upgrade the CPU later. A P4 3ghz hyperthreading is definately not bad at all. You can overclock that by at least 200-400mhz, prolly more, so that's something to try.