thanatos8285

Ok guys, so I have a dilemma. I want to go up to 4 GB of RAM. But, to go to 4 GB, I'd have to get the 64 bit version of Vista. To run the 64 bit version of Vista, I'd need a processor that can support 64 bits (mine can't). To get a processor that can support 64 bits, I need a new motherboard (my current one has some kind of CPU socket that, as far as any parts site is concerned, does not exist - 754). No big deal so far, I can afford to buy the new parts and such, but here's my first problem: I have 2 PATA hard drives, and all the new motherboards I'm looking at only support 1. Suggestions?

Problem 2, I remember many years ago, when I upgraded to a new processor and motherboard, my registry was all messed up. Didn't recognize any of the programs I had installed, and if memory serves, I lost a lot of data. Is this something I can look forward to again? Or can I basically just upgrade everything and keep right on surfing like nothing ever happened?

Don't ask what my current motherboard is, cause I've searched high and low for a model number and I can't find one. Thanks in advance for any help you guys can provide

ahmorrow

The problems with upgrading such core hardware as the motherboard and processor are well... many. At least for existing information on hard drives. Your registry and windows will probably be more than a little messed up if you upgrade all of that, but there are ways to work through it of course.

I really don't know how else to help you here. I'd just backup whatever you really want to keep and start over with the new system.

linderman

when changing from a 32bit OS to a 64bit OS you will need to reinstall all programs

as fro IDE connectors; motherboards can run TWO ide drives

but there are IDE to sata adapters that will allow you to run your IDE drives off the sata controller

or cheaper for you is: run your two IDE drives off the IDE controller and buy a $25.00 sata dvd writer / burner which is sata connected