bottleneck or OS error?

[KnArFnB]

I haven't reinstalled XP in years on this system.

(Read system specs)

So it's either:

A) The cpu is bottlenecking the x1650xt to a great extent.

B) I need to start fresh, and reinstall XP. (Software problem)

If A, I'll purchase a core 2 duo and compatible mobo to still be able to use the rest of the hardware for this system. I just want it to be able to run some older games.

Previous card was a 9550, popped the x1650xt in and saw almost NO DIFFERENCE.

 

[Cold Storm]

What type of old games are you wanting to play?

 

[KnArFnB]

Basically race sims like Nascar Racing 2003 Season, and Rfactor.

Also want this thing to be able to run the new Arca sim that's coming out.

Halo PC, C&C Generals (original) the cs series to name a few others.

 

[Cold Storm]

Have you installed our ati tool? your system shouldn't be bottle necking... it could be your PSU not giving the right amount of push for the card.. how old is this system?

 

[KnArFnB]

Yes, I've used ATI Tool a few times. I do not currently have it installed, but can do that.

The cpu is several years old, and the oldest component in this system. The rest of the parts are only about a year or two. I had one ultra psu begin to "click" on me. I called ultra and they sent me a new one. This was with the current system.

 

[Cold Storm]

I suggest this and then post a picture of it for me so I can see...
I'm thinking its your Psu. The x1650 shouldn't be bottleknecking because its made for that system...
And with Ati Tool you can change the fan to where its on 24/7 and see if that will work or help

 

[JrRacinFan]

Uninstall ALL ATi display drivers,reinstall, and try again. I wouldn't rule out the power supply just yet.

 

[KnArFnB]

Uninstall ALL ATi display drivers,reinstall, and try again. I wouldn't rule out the power supply just yet.

Man I've done that several times using driver cleaner. Trying newer and older driver versions.

PSU has 35 amps on the dual +12v rails. I only got a recommended 280w on that psu calculator. You still want a pic of it cold?

 

[Cold Storm]

Yeah, because I just want to make sure on something.. nothing on you... but I just want to see with my eyes..

 

[KnArFnB]

 

[Cold Storm]

Then all I can think about is that its your CPU... if you install and uninstall ati tool, and it doesn't work.... then its just your CPU... Its a old system... and its probably best to upgrade..

 

[Agility]

It can't be the os. And yes i'm suggesting either bottleneck or drivers.

 

[KnArFnB]

I've been looking at this now for a while:

Mobo: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157115
CPU:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115003

It's an all around better board. Uses ddr400 standard, and I'll be able to run the ram in dual channel. Also has built in SATA. I spend a few extra bucks on the e6600 for the higher clock (2.4ghz) because you can't oc for crap on that board. Then use the rest of my listed hardware.

Good upgrade? To run the selected games on enjoyable settings?

 

[Mussels]

It can't be the os. And yes i'm suggesting either bottleneck or drivers.

it can be the OS, if its bloated and somethings wrong with the drivers. Its just not very likely.

After dealing with a few P4's lately, they are slow as heck.
My housemate (aka 'the girl') had a P4 2.6C that we OC'd to 3GHz... and in vista, it gave her a nice, slow as crap 2.4 in the CPU benchmark.

Upgraded to a P4 presler (775) 3Ghz, and its now 3.something (cant remember exactly, sorry)


To be honest, i'd suggest hunting around for a 939 mobo + CPU Combo on ebay or something. Dual core 3800+, reuse your ram/PSU/video card (reuse everything really) and get a huge boost in performance.


Edit: gah i missed your last post about that board. It will do what you're asking, but for reference they dont OC very well and you cant run DDR and DDR2 at the same time (limiting you to 2 sticks of ram, when upgrading)

The girl (as mentioned) actually HAS that exact motherboard its stable at stock, runs vista nicely with an x1650pro and we havent had any issues with it.

 

[KnArFnB]

I'll try ATI Tool again. I remember every time I clicked on something in it, I'd get a BSOD. That's the reason I don't have it now. I've switched drivers a few times since then though.

What exactly would I be looking for with ATI tool?

Worse comes to worse, my x1650xt should do what I want it to do especially on that listed core 2 duo.

 

[Cold Storm]

I've been looking at this now for a while:

Mobo: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157115
CPU:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115003

It's an all around better board. Uses ddr400 standard, and I'll be able to run the ram in dual channel. Also has built in SATA. I spend a few extra bucks on the e6600 for the higher clock (2.4ghz) because you can't oc for crap on that board. Then use the rest of my listed hardware.

Good upgrade? To run the selected games on enjoyable settings?

Its a good build. and like mussles said, it will work out for you.
if ATI TOOL isn't helping yet, then the card just doesn't like the stuff you have. IMO

 

[JrRacinFan]

How many IDE devices are you planning on using?

 

[KnArFnB]

0 Ide.