re LGA 775 Processor

[starzsimon]

Hi, I am running a DELL Dimension E520, these machines have had excellent reviews die to their low cost and are no longer being manufactured.

I have upgraded the graphics so that I can play Grand Theft Auto 4, however I am still not able to play the game. Customer support first blamed the old graphics card, I upgraded to the one specified on the box, they are now saying that my processor isn't recognised.

My processor is a LGA775 Pentium D running at 3GHZ Dual Core.

I ahve been informed that this is a slightly old processor, however I need some advice before I even attempt to upgrade. I have never upgraded a processor before because it's beyond my technical ability.

I have seen this: Intel Core2Duo E7300 2.66Ghz LGA775

Would this work on my machine and would everything be okay? Would my machine recognised the Core 2 Duo processor and would I see an increase in performance even although I already have a 3GHZ processor and this new one is only 2.66 GHZ???

or should I keep the one I have and not bother?

I was really anticipating this game on the PC and my graphics needed to be updated anyway, problem is should I upgrade the processor?

Sorry is this question is a little long winded, I thank anyone who takes the time to answer it.

 

[Duke]

Welcome

First off that CPU isn't that great. It is ok for most things but will struggle with games a bit. An upgrade to a Core 2 Duo chip would help a lot, they are far more efficient, hence not needing to be so quick in mhz.

Looking at the Dell site for your model, it does mention the Core 2 Duo E6300 E4300 processors in the spec list of options, so there is a good chance it will take those models. Those are the early versions so although are quick, there are newer revisions out which will probably not be compatible.

What graphics card do you have in there? Also how much memory does your system have?

 

[starzsimon]

Hi I have a nVidia 7900 GS and 4GB's of RAM with a 500GB + 160 GB HDD's. So you think I should change over? Also are their any better options? One main concern I have is compatibility, will any LGA775 processor work with my motherboard? Thanks

 

[Ace Modder]

The GFX card you have is very poor, I would recommend getting an upgrade.

 

[Duke]

I would upgrade the CPU and Graphics Card. You'll need to speak to Dell for info on capability or look on their site with your service tag number.

 

[nightmare99]

Hmm I would be surprised if it could take a C2D if it had a PentiumD in there at the moment, although you might be lucky.

 

[starzsimon]

Well I have found this: http://en.community.dell.com/forums/t/19247747.aspx?c=us&l=en&cs=&s=gen which isn't very informative. But I know it can take at least a E4400 because I found this: http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/dell-dimension-e520-core/4505-3118_7-32490670.html which is suggestive.

The graphics card I have was new. It cost me £30 and I know its not the best but it is better then the built-in graphics. I am on a budget which is why I want to see hoe the game runs on this first, however if you have any suggestions of a new graphics card also then please let me know. I don't want anything major but maybe something newer might be nice.

Please let me know what you think about the processor situation. Do I have a safe bet?

 

[Lumeycom]

Why are you not able to play the game? what exactly happens?

I've just changed from a 7900GS to a 4850, maassive difference

 

[starzsimon]

I am receiving the fatal error: dd 3d 30 also just purchased Fallout3 and I get a runtime error?. Sorry about the late response but I just finished work.

Any ideas ?

 

[Bigdogbmx]

That doesnt sound like your pc not being fast enough. Is the dd 3d 30 part a hex code you get on a blue screen? Where is the error shown?

 

[PCZ]

Simon
The games should run on your PC.
Not at high res or lots of eye candy but they should run.

Clearly you have a software problem, most likely DX9 is not working properly.

I'd start by updating your Video Drivers and Sound Card drivers. then install the latest DX9.
Ignore the last step if your runing Vista, you didn't say what your OS is.

Upgrading the CPU to one of the e4000's is probably an option as is upgrading the VC.
Get the PC working properly first though.

As it is if you were to put an e4400 in your PC the games still wouldn't work because you have software issues.

 

[starzsimon]

Okay, well I did et a BSOD on Xmas day and maybe this is the cause. My other games are working fine such as the newest C&C, however maybe I need to do a clean-install of XP and this may fix the problem. Oh and I was running XP Pro but I will consider upgrading to Vista Business edition.

Thanks for the advice, i'll report back within the next 48 hours

Thanks for all your help guys !