Overall, those responses calm my biggest fears. But, I was disappointed
that I would probably have to buy a new video card, so I went
re-shopping.

Here's a comparison:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131517

The EPoX is the new one I'm looking at - about half the cost, same
processor (right?), 5 PCI slots, and an AGP slot. This is looking
really good to me - unfortunately, I don't know what a TON of those
specs are, so is there anything I'd have problems with if I chose the
EPoX motherboard?

Thanks a lot for the help,
Tony R.

paulmd@efn.org wrote:
> Tony R wrote:
> > On my desktop, I want to get a new motherboard, CPU, and RAM (128 MB
> > just isn't cutting it anymore). Problem: I've never bought / installed
> > any of those. I was looking at these:
> >
> > Motherboard:
> > http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131517
> > CPU:
> >
>
> It's fine. Not sure you have a reason to have 2 built-in network
> adapters, however.
>
> http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...ubCategory=343
>
> All OK.
>
> > (not sure which one)
> > RAM: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820161679
> >
> > Here are few of my biggest questions:
> >
> > 1) Will these last me a while? I'm not a gamer and I don't use any real
> > high-powered applications. My laptop (with a dual-core 32-bit and 2GB
> > of DDR2 RAM) fits my needs perfectly. I shouldn't need more than those
> > in a while, right? (excluding more RAM)
>
> 2GB ought to be adequite for the next 5 years (or more).
>
> >
> > 2) Will those work together fine? The CPUs are 939 socket, same as
> > motherboard. Is there anything else I need to look for?
>
> Look up on asus's website, and double check the CPU and RAM support
> lists. I don't see any issues offhand, however.
> >
> > 3) I've never used a 64-bit processor. What should I expect to be
> > different? I run WinXP and Ubuntu on both my laptop and desktop. I know
> > I'll have to get the AMD64 architecture, but am I going to have to
> > worry about any of my applications not working?
> >
> Only if you install XP 64 bit edition.
>
> > 4) How easy is the installation?
>
> As long as you're good at reading the manual and following the
> directions, it should go well. Definately read and follow the static
> electricity procedures, if you do nothing else.
>
>
> > I've installed my power supply, HDDs,
> > disk drives, ethernet, sound card, etc. Can I just unplug my current
> > cords and plug them into the new motherboard? :)
>
> Maybe. You'll have to look.
>
> >
> > 5) Should I have to worry about any of my current parts not working
> > with it?
>
> AGP Video card and your current power supply are likely incompatible.
> AGP video is NOT supported by this board.
>
>
> >
> > 6) Newegg recommends Corsair RAM for that motherboard. Does it make a
> > noticeable difference?
>
> In performance, given identical specs, probably not. Corsair is a good
> name, tho'.
>
> >
> > 7) Are the extended warranties worth it for any of those parts?
>
> You will have to decide THAT on your own.
>
> >
> > Thanks a ton in advance for your helpfulness. I'd hate to buy these and
> > have them not work (or have me mess something up). Sorry there are so
> > many questions - I don't expect answers for every one of them, but
> > anything you guys can help is greatly appreciated.
> >
> > Thanks!
> > -Tony R.