Processor Question

[Sionistic]

In addition to upgrading my graphics card im going to update my processor too. Now I have an Asus P4P8XSE motherboard. In the manual it says it can handle 800/533/400 FSB. However the 800 is noted as overclocked. I found the processor I wanted but it says 800FSB.

Now my question is, can I cut down the fsb in bios and use it anyway. Or will I need to get some extra cooling to use it?

Heres the processor by the way. P4 3.2 http://www.pcdirect.com/product.asp?Sku ... D478%2D512

[Winnow]

Get the 800FSB. Your memory interracts with the CPU in ratios 3:2 5:4 1:1. Your bios will recognize your CPU and memory and automatically configure them. After that, you can play with the timings.

When overclocking, your AGP/PCI are usually locked at 66/33mhz so you can boost the FSB to increase memory performance and GHz of your CPU.

Short answer is: you're fine with the 800FSB CPU. (be sure to get two of the same memory modules so you can utilize hyperthreading. (get 2X512mb instead of 1X1GB memory for example)

I'm half asleep. Someone might make that explanation clearer.

[masteen]

He will need new memory to take advantage of the FSB, right? PC3200, IIRC.

[Winnow]

He will need new memory to take advantage of the FSB, right? PC3200, IIRC.

Yes, if he plans to overclock and push the FSB to higher levels. Running your memory at 1:1 timing at a lower FSB than 5:4 at a higher one actually gives you better performance depanding on other parts of your system.

He'll need the same memory...even 2700 will work if you're not going to OC it. I'd probably go for at least 3200 these days though if not 4000 if you want to run at higher speed with more favorable timings.

The biggest thing is having two of the exact same memory modules to take advantage of HT.

A new game I'm playing requires (should require) 1GB minimum and runs better with 1.5-2gb of memory so be sure to get at least 2X512 for 1GB. 512 isn't going to cut it anymore.

[Sionistic]

Right now I have a single 512 2700.
So let me get this straight, to use the processor in mind, I would also need memory that runs at 800fsb?

[*~*stragi*~*]

Nope, memory doesn't run 800 fsb. To take full advantage of the 800 mhz front side bus, the only thing you really need to worry about is getting a pair of sticks so you're able to utilize the best timings. That probably doesn't make sense.

You can grab some twinx from corsair? I think. They test them in pairs so you know you'll be good to go, and I'd pick up atleast pc3200.

[Sionistic]

I'm sorry, I am still not completly understanding this, Basically, if I got another 512 2700 of the same brand, could I use the processor? If not, would I need to buy 2 3200 sticks?

[*~*stragi*~*]

yes you can still use the processor

[Sionistic]

thanks !