Hi,

I need help in upgrading an old PIII Katmai.

Details as obtained from Everest & CPUZ :

CPU Type : Intel Pentium III, 450 MHz (4.5 x 100)
Code Name : Katmai
Package : Slot1 SECC2
CPU Stepping : kB0
Instruction Set : x86, MMX, SSE


Motherboard Name : Gigabyte GA-6BA (2 ISA, 4 PCI, 1 AGP, 4 DIMM)
Motherboard ID : 03/23/1999-i440BX-W977-2A69KG0AC-00
Motherboard Chipset : Intel 82440BX (i440BX/ZX Rev: C1)

BIOS Type : Award Modular
BIOS Version : Intel 440BX/ZX AGPSet BIOS for 6BA V.2.6
Award BIOS Type : Award Modular BIOS v4.51PG
System BIOS Date : 03/23/99

Am I restricted to using only the Katmai (Pentium III) 500, 550, 600 MHz (FSB 100) or can I go in for the 100 FSB Coppermine (Pentium IIIE) series 550E, 600E, 650, 700, 750, 800, 850 MHz too ?

I noticed that the L2 Associativity is different on the Katmai and Coppermine.

Thank you.

New system, pure and simple. It's not worth trying to upgrade that system, most less spend money on it.

Honestly man. That system is about a decade old. If you're on a super tight budget you should check out your local craigslist and see what someone has lying around. Virtually anything is better than that.

What is your budget? Where the heck are you going to find a PIII?

In my closet, eric54. I think I have a Slot 1 700Mhz P3 laying around somewhere.

Thanks guys.

The pc is for some internet and programming for my kids. Not for gaming or any serious graphics or number crunching.

The pc has served me well, and still functions well. Of course it is a little slow.

Never was down once in 9+ years (hardware wise).

By comparision, my new C2D was down within the first 3 hours of operation.

It is not just a question of budget. Why put in $600 when $15 will do ?

Anyway, a Coppermine 800 (FSB 100) will probably do the job (if I can find one).

Thanks again.