- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
Well, don't be too dissappointed if upgrading your graphics card doesn't change too much... I had almost this EXACT same system- (only a 2ghz celeron and a 120 gb hd)- which I bought semi-new before reading this post and starting some other research. I was able to ditch my 9200se for a deal on a Radeon 9600 pro, which I overclocked to the equivalent of the 9600XT version... and honestly, noticed minimal improvement in HALO performance. Basically, the processor is one huge bottleneck for the system... it just can't handle the stuff. The parts are in the mail to upgrade to a P4 2.8c (800mhz fsb), and a new mobo with 2x256 pc3200 Kingston ram... I should be able to put it together this weekend (I pray it all gets here by then), and I'll repost to let you know how much of a difference the processor change makes. Either way though- I'd almost suggest spending the money on a new processor FIRST, then getting the graphics card... I think that graphics card prices are going to keep dropping faster than processor prices (especially since the x800 came out)... so you might end up being able to get a 9800pro in the $170 range. You could probably get a new processor OEM (original equipment manufacturer- basically, just the processor, not a new heatsink fan- which you should already have with your celeron) for that range- I got mine for about $160- and that, combined with a new graphics card will make a HUGE difference. Search around on Pricewatch... just be sure not to get a Prescott (with the 1mb L2cache), as it runs WAAAY hot, and is not a performance improvement over the Northwood cores.