what do i need to know to change a motherboard

mykes68 · #1 10-01-2003, 03:14 PM

is there any specific details i would need to know to change a motherboard? does anyone know of a motherboard that will fit in the case of a compaq presario 5000 desktop? or does this matter?My current set up is a Windows XP Pro 40gb maxtor HD, 256 mb sdram, compaq cdrom, etc. What do i need to know before buying/installing one..i dont need a high tech one just a average one. this is mainly used for internet and microsoft word etc..

curtybob · #2 10-01-2003, 03:29 PM

1st, Compaq uses a proprietary form factor. This means that, as far as I know, only a compaq replacement will fit the case and line up with the holes. That being said...

you have to know:
what type of processor (brand, model, socket)
what type of memory you have (SDRAM, DDR RAM, RD RAM)
what form factor the original is (ATX, miniATX, AT, etc..)
how many expansion slots are on your motherboard (this should be covered by form factor)
If your processor is a P4, does your power supply have the extra 4 pin connector (if it is there, you are covered under any circumstance. If not, your new motherboard can't require it unless you plan on purchasing a new power supply that has one.)

If I were you, I would look into buying a new case that is a standard form factor. If you compare the price of the Compaq replacement board to the price of a new case and a new motherboard, you will probably still come out ahead.

mykes68 · #3 10-01-2003, 06:43 PM

so would i be able to get like a serial number off the old one and look up all this info or is there more to it. It is a intel pen III with 2 sticks of 128 SDRAM. As far as pci card slots there is 4 of them. there is 3 IDE cable slots on it. as far as the question:

what form factor the original is (ATX, miniATX, AT, etc..)?

i dont know what you mean? i am pretty new to this..

curtybob · #4 10-01-2003, 11:35 PM

If you want a straight replacement, go to this page and know the serial number, or the spare parts replacement number on the motherboard. You may also need the computer's model number. This is located behind the plastic door in the front at the bottom (the CD holder). Compaq will usually have a sticker on the board somewhere with the info you need. Also, looking through the site, they have the motherboard listed as "system board without processor".

But, looking at the prices they have listed, you may get a better deal by getting a new case and a non-compaq motherboard that will work with your processor and memory.

Form factors are what they use to categorize size and shape of the motherboard. Another thing that this will indicate is the type of connector the power supply has to have ( the big power connector that plugs into the motherboard.)