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Old 11-29-2007, 12:00 PM   #1
Corn-Picker
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Default Nerds; I want to buy a cheap Dell and do some minor upgrades, will XP bitch about it?

I need a new lab PC. It doesn't need to do super computer work, but I may want to add some RAM and a faster processor for a snappy machine. I am looking at the Dell Inspiron 530. Stock, it comes with an Intel Celeron Processor 420 (1.60GHz, 800 FSB). After snooping on newegg, I found that this is an LGA 775 socket processor.

Questions

Could I swap out the Celeron D for a Core 2 Duo since they use the same socket? I don't want to order the Core 2 Duo from Dell, as they gouge on the upgrade price.

Could I add RAM from newegg (again, I'm trying to avoid the gouge), assuming I can find the right timing specs and such?

Will XP throw a fit when it detects these hardware changes?

Is there anyway to get a legit clean XP install if I order this machine -- I hate all the bloatware that Dells come packaged with.

Anyone have a good source for Dell coupons so I can save a few bucks on my $350 machine?
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:02 PM   #2
dr_wheel
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Corn-Picker View Post
Is there anyway to get a legit clean XP install if I order this machine -- I hate all the bloatware that Dells come packaged with.
Yes, add it to your cart before you check out. Not sure what you're asking.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:03 PM   #3
CosmoTheCat
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RAM I've always upgraded from elsewhere

Processor I couldn't tell you on.

And I've been hit/miss with XP - sometimes it's a raw copy on CD and sometimes it's a restore cd.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:04 PM   #4
zentrandi
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its the chipset that dictates if you can use upgrade to core 2.
ram is easily upgradeable, but not necessarily cheap esp if you dont have current ram frequencies.
xp is good with new hardware.
you can use the restore cd's they gave you? and just uninstall all the crap software they give you.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:04 PM   #5
GodWhomIsMike
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If you add a power hungry video card, your Power Supply might literally DIAF.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:06 PM   #6
r0bman
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If it does compain, the process to get it to un-complain is VERY easy. I installed a copy of XP on an entirely new mobo / processor, carried over the GPU, memory, and hard drive. When XP wouldn't activate, I called the number on the activation, explained that the original computer didn't exist anymore, and they un-blacklisted it manually. I've since swapped GPUs, added another hardrive, and put in new memory, still installs / activates fine.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:07 PM   #7
emorphien
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Upgrading RAM is simple, in fact most of the upgrades to a Dell shouldn't be much different than doing them to a home built computer.

As far as a clean install of XP, just ask that they include a Windows disc with the computer or bug them until they send you one.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:19 PM   #8
Charge
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The processor depends on if that mobo supports it. Odds are it does, just as long as the microcode is in the BIOS for that particular processor. If it's an update available from Dell to purchase for that machine, then it's there.

And they don't include that much crap anymore on their newer installs. Just spend 15 minutes uninstalling a few applications and you're basically done.
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:20 PM   #9
teiva-boy
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The XP reactivation is as simple as clicking through a few prompts. It's not till you have reactivated it around 7 times that they may ask you to call in.

A clean install is as simple as reinstalling with a copy of the media. It may cost you an extra $10 or so for the media.

Other than that, all seem pretty straight forward. You want to make sure that you get the right proc and not a desktop version of it. The mobile versions may be a low voltage unit, which is what a laptop usually needs
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:24 PM   #10
scuzzy
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"nerds"? hey **** you! do your own research dumb-jock!
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Old 11-29-2007, 12:54 PM   #11
Manarius
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You do need to reinstall XP with anything larger than a RAM change. XP detects this as major hardware change and requires a reinstall/reactivation.
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Old 11-29-2007, 01:29 PM   #12
RedHotLama
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I ordered a 531 pretty loaded, sans ram and only 320gb hard drive with 22 inch lcd for 670. Look for student discounts or work discount, mine is extra for the holiday.
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