Base system

[SiliconePuddle]

I am ready to take the newbie plunge into overclocking and I think this will be the base from which I will start;
P4 2.8E (Prescott)
ABIT IC7 Mobo
DDR400 (PC3200) Crucial RAM (2x 512MB)
I already have the RAM so the Mobo and CPU will run ~$350. Is this the best way to start? What other mobo/cpu combos might be better? Thanks.
PS Try to stay on subject. I am not using AMD and I'm not buying newer RAM (yet).

 

[endyen]

The P4c might be a better chip to start with. They run a little cooler, and in most apps perform better to start.

 

[justaguy]

I agree that the Northwood cores run cooler and OC well in their own right. Also, a mobile Barton and NF2 combo would guarantee you a successful experience, better temps and good performance. If you want to stick with the Prescott, check this article:
http://www.hardocp.com/article.html?art=NjAz
and remember, cooling is also important-the lower your temps at stock, the better your chances of a great OC.

Athlon XP 1900 (11x200) 42C (Load w/AX-7 & 8cm Tornado) - MSI K7N2 Delta - Corsair Value PC3200 - Gainward GF3 @ 250/550 - 80Gb WD 8Mb Cache -

 

[Cybercraig]

The Crucial PC3200 might get you to a 225mhz FSB. Don't expect any more than that. Of course, if you start from 3.2 ghz that won't be too shabby at all.

"I am become death, the destroyer of worlds. Now, let's eat!

 

[HardWareBoss]

You going to buy Scotty? Wait for the new DO stepping Prescotts to hit the market than buy one. You can't wait then buy 2.8C.

 

[ytoledano]

PC3200 RAM won't get you too far with Intel unless you have a really fast processor to begin with (3.2C or 3.0C) and if you get one of those you kinda miss the point of overclocking - getting more for less. So AMD is your best choice - the A64 systems are good performers, but if you're looking for the max OC % the 2500+ MOBILE Barton rules the earth, AND you can still use that RAM and get great results. Also get some 1337 heatsink, though you probably won't even need it to get to 3200+ speeds (11x200). Also 1337 about MOBILE Bartons is their unlocked multiplier, search boards for why this is important.

Abit IS7 @ 275 FSB, OCZ PC4200 RAM @ 550Mhz, P4 2.4 @ 3.3Ghz Vcore @ 1.625, Sapphire Radeon 9800P @ 410/780.
Thermalright SLK-947U, P3 HS @ NB.

 

[Snaggle]

Post your question at the best overclockers forum
<A HREF="http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=a91770c8a42178dcb2ef1715f4691440&forumid=59" target="_new">http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=a91770c8a42178dcb2ef1715f4691440&forumid=59</A>

Thumbs up to Fugger

 

[SiliconePuddle]

Thanks for the advice so far. I think I will take to heart the advice to go with a non-prescott chip. Given the goal to have a HOT (pardon the pun) gaming machine I think the 3.0C is good advice given the limitations on the Crucial RAM. I'm not sold on the Mobo yet so keep the suggestions coming.

"Devils are those who do evil, or prevent others from doing good, or who do nothing at all" - Goya