Current CPU Longevity and looking for upgrade!

[RunDougRun]

Hello Forum!!!
I've been researching and learning more each day about my PC. I've learned that my current Motherboard/Cpu Combo is about as far as it can go.....

From my other posts, I've gathered that I can extend the "Life" of it by adding a better GPU (Gtx 650 ti Boost)......

I came across this cool chart on this website:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-cpu-review-overclock,3106-5.html

and they suggested that I shouldn't invest in a new CPU unless it moves 2 tiers......
I currently have the AMD Phenom II x4 955 so based on that chart, I could move up 1 tier.

Here are my current specs:
CPU: AMD Phemon II X4 955 @ 3.2Ghz
CPU Cooler: Zalman CNPS9500
Motherboard: Asrock Extreme3 870
GPU: EVGA FPB Geforce GTX 460 768mb
Power Supply: Cooler Master Silent Pro M600 Modular
RAM: Corsair XMS3 6gb DDR3 1333
SSD: OCZ 60gb SSD
HDD: Western Digital Caviar Black 640gb SATA 6.0gb/s

I'm not sure how much longer I can ride this one out......
Obviously, GPU will be next and after that I will look to get new CPU/Mobo.....

How much longer until this CPU is obsolete....
Right now it does everything I need it to (Including games) but I want to plan for the future.....

Sorry for long post!!!

 

[RunDougRun]

Can I add one more stick of the same brand.....
For instance add 1x4gb or 1x2gb.......

Or will I have to ditch my current RAM? I really don't have the money for all new RAM and a video card.
I am glad that the CPU isn't a dinosaur yet =)

 

[RunDougRun]

Yeah they are Corsair XMS3 1333 RAM Sticks.....
Now do the GB have to Match.....2gb~2Gb~2gb~2gb) or can I throw in a 4gb stick of the same make/model.....
It bothers me that I have a free slot lol!!!!

Here is the Memory I use (2Gb version though)

http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-1333MHz-PC3-10666-240-pin-CMX4GX3M1A1333C9/dp/B003ZDJ42O/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1375775521&sr=1-4&keywords=xms3+1x4gb

 

[simon12]

My understanding was it needs to be the same speed and timings, so if you have 2 x 2Gb and 2 x 1Gb it should be fine as long as there the same speed (you can run RAM slower than its stock timing to match whats there).

 

[RunDougRun]

This appears to be EXACTLY what I have.....
Same Voltage...Timing and Latency.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145331

The Single 4gb Sticks start at 1600 speed.
I want to utilize that last spot as best as possible.....for as cheap as possible....
I already have 6gb which is plenty for me..BUT if it's not in "Dual Channel" I don't want to mess up a potential boost to the overall PC

 

[RunDougRun]

Then would I be in "Dual Channel" times 2 (Since I have 4 slots) or is only 2 slots on the motherboard alloted for "Dual Channel"?

Edit:
Here is a 4gb stick.....Would bring System total to 10gb. Or should I stick with the 2gb Stick????

http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-1333MHz-PC3-10666-240-pin-CMX4GX3M1A1333C9/dp/tech-data/B003ZDJ42O/ref=de_a_smtd

 

[simon12]

If you have a 2Gb stick and a 4Gb stick then either add a 4Gb & a 2Gb or add a 4Gb and remove the 2Gb. I assume the PC is for gaming by the GPU if so 8Gb is all you need. Overclocking the CPU will help it run better if you upgrade the GPU.

 

[RunDougRun]

Last question of the night....
Can I use another brand......
As long as the Speed, Latency and timing is the same......

Only reason I ask, is I have Amazon Prime and I get free 2 day shipping lol......