motherboard replacement question

[pglenn]

I have an old case that I would like to use with a new motherboard/cpu but I am not sure what to use or what would fit. I was given an old computer that I would like to take out the existing motherboard/cpu and put in something supporting at least a 1.2/1.4g cpu if possible.

I dont have any information on the PC itself. The case has "Micro Master P5" on it, the case is very similar in size to a compaq presario 5304, the cpu is I believe a P1/P2 at 133mhz (I think). The chips on it are SIS 5595/ SIS 530. I dont believe I can, or that it is even worth, upgrading just the CPU. The power supply is small, 200watt, but I dont need anything from it other than the video output. As I want to keep the cost low and go DIY, I would like to use the case and hopefully power supply and just put a new motherboard in it.

I would like to build the PC to output video and audio, use it as a media center, linked via a network to my main PC and HD for access to my media files, and output via a PCI or AGP card to my TV. I dont need it to do anything but that. I will probably just need a 10/100 network card and a video card installed. Any ideas on what motherboard would fit, or where I can get info on what motherboards would fit?

Patrick

[redwudz]

I wouldn't risk a new motherboard and drives to an old case and power supply. You can get a new case with power supply for $30 -$40US. For a motherboard, you can try an all in one board with audio and maybe video on board. For an economical processor, go for an AMD XP 1800. If you are in the US, check this board: http://www.computergate.com/products/item.cfm?prodcd=B7EK7S5A2@
I have put a couple of machines together with this board, and it works great.
EDIT: The 'Micro ATX' size of motherboards will fit most any case.

[gmatov]

First check to see what kind of power supply it is. It may be an AT, with the dual 5 pin connectors, obsolete.

You would HAVE to get a new ATX PSU for any new board.

I mentioned elsewhere a board I bought with the CPU built in, also Video, Audio, LAN, Modem Riser, and cooler/fan, 60 bucks. 2 open PCI slots for a video out card.

Don't know yet if it's really a Duron 2000, an 18, 16, or 1300. Have to plug it in.

You are not going to find cheaper than that. 40 bucks for a box, HDD, CD and RAM. Well, I probably could, in the long run, but you get the point.

Cheers,

George

[pglenn]

4-pin power supply connectors, as I have already swapped out the original hard drive and CD drive with a compaq 5304 that I had laying around. I actually gave my friend the compaq and took the old PC, doing him a favor. I felt at the very least the compaq was still usable for him, and I could use the case he had as a starting point in a cheap media player PC to be hooked to my TV for playing of all my video files. As this is a project in works I would prefer if possible to work with what I have rather than buy all new (with exception of cpu/motherboard). besides the case is already compact enough to sit somewhat hidden and unobtrusive next to my TV and stereo center. If I were to buy a new case I would end up spending money on a case that would be "modern" and slick looking and actually match as much as possible my stereo set so I could actually place it within my rack. I prefer to just get it up and running for now and maybe replace the case later.

Patrick

[fmctm1sw]

I actually gave my friend the compaq and took the old PC, doing him a favor. I

You probably did yourself a favor. "Name brand" computers (HP, Packard Bell, Compaq) are notoriously difficult to upgrade due to their proprietary design. I bought an old case for $5 at the Salvation Army a few years ago and used it for a while. You need to determine if you have a standard AT sized case. In which case you can install an AT sized (never find one these days) or a Baby AT sized board (getting rare but can find on ebay). I have a baby AT celeron 366 CPU/motherboard laying around. First, figure out the case and go from there. If you can take a picture of it (especially the back), post it or PM me it.....

[zzyzzx]

Most likely you have an old AT style case. I's still using one I bought in 1994. The most powerful MB you can put in it uses an AMD K6-2-3D - 500, or maybe a 550, but 550's are expensive. If that meets your needs then I see no reason not to use the case. The MB (look for baby AT) are readily and cheaply available on eBay.