[sajasio]

Ok so I have a dell dimension E310http://support.dell.com/support/edoc....htm#wp1052310. I have been continually throwing in new upgrades into the computer. I recently purchased a new graphics card to install. Unfortunately I realized i need to replace the motherboard when I was attempting to install it. I thought the PCI were compatible but I was greatly mistaken. Now I am faced with a few decisions. I realize the Pentium 4 HT is somewhat out of date but I have two 3Ghz in the computer. I need to replace the motherboard and I was wondering whether or not to buy a new motherboard that will work with both the old processors and have at least PCI-express 16x or to upgrade the processors as well. What I mostly use the computer for is video editing and special effects. I do like to game occasionally. I am not a person who can spend lots of money on components. If someone could send me in the right direction I would be extremely grateful. The graphics card is NVidia

[Hybr!d]

Personally, I would sell what you have and put that towards a complete new build. You need such a big overhaul that next to none of what you have will work with current parts.

[Carbon]

You can get a complete system for $350-$500 nowadays with a video card and buying all new components. I'd sell what you have and pay the difference.

[DarkKaleo]

agreed on the new build. Dells are jokes and the company makes it so only Dell parts work for sure (usually cpu is custom fit and mobo is revered).

If you want a nice computer I recommend building your own. A great site to get parts is http://www.Newegg.com if you don't know how to assemble a computer from scratch there are many guides and I'm sure many on this site would help you out along the way. You can build a gaming computer capable of playing any game with top graphics without a doubt for under $700-1000.

[Hybr!d]

Typically the only custom parts with a Dell or any other brand are the case, PSU and motherboard.

[sajasio]

Well I think buying a new system and selling my old one might not work. While it is true I could but a new system for 500 bucks, it would not have the power I need. I already have a 700 watt power supply that I purchased with my graphics card. The amount of RAM is now 4 gbs. I am getting an old alienware case to replace the one I have shortly (my dad's cousin just had it lying around). So once I replace the mother board its practically a new computer except for the main hard drive (a crappy 60 gb). I do know how to assemble computers you should presume by now. So I guess the consensuses is replace the motherboard and PCU.

[Hybr!d]

Fair enough, yeah, get a good CPU too and sounds like your pretty sorted.

[Bubba]

Originally Posted by Dave Hybrid

Typically the only custom parts with a Dell or any other brand are the case, PSU and motherboard.

LOL Dave, where do I start? I have a Dell. The case is so custom that you cannot fit another MoBo in it other than one you buy from Dell and I didn't think they sold Mobo's. The MoBo's are custom in that they only fit in a Dell case. Are we seeing a pattern yet? You can't upgrade the PSU without upgrading the MoBo and you are stuck with the RAM limits of what you bought.

The bottom line is that a Dell is NOT upgradable in any meaningful fashion. The OP needs to get/build a new computer if he wants anything more modern than what he has.

EDIT: Never mind. My apologies Dave. I didn't read the OP's last post and he IS rather sorted isn't he? Can we help bring him in focus?

[Hybr!d]

Yeah they are a nightmare.
RAM, CPU and Drives are all industry standard and swapable into a custom build, pretty sure on that Bubs.

[sajasio]

Would it make sense to buy a motherboard compatible with my dual pentium 4 ht processors that would also be compatible up to the core 2 quad so that when I am able to spend the money to make that upgrade I would be able to?