Big Install: New HD, Video Card, Memory, & Processor

Good evening,

I have a Dell Dimension 9200 (desktop from '07).

Today I bought a bigger HD, more memory, better processor and video card per my computer specs.

Could someone please recommend how I should begin the Big Install? I was thinking I would add the processor first, then the memory and video card before installing the HD last.

Please advise.

Thank you,

Kim

 

Hi, Kim...

Certainly an ambitious project! I see nothing wrong with your installation order: it's probably the way I'd do it, too...

Couple of quick questions: have you built a machine before? And, are you migrating your OS to the new drive, or is it going to be a storage device?

 

Another question: do you have new thermal paste to apply to the processor? The old stuff will not do as once you break the seal its performance is degraded.

 

Hi! Thanks for the reply.

Yes, I do have the paste (but was wondering what to do w/ it!!!) I thought I'd cross that bridge when I came to it.

No, I haven't done anything like this before. Is it really that tough???

Thanks again,
Kim

 

I forgot to ask; will I have to purchase a new (WIN 7) op sys once I install the new HD if I don't use the other? I could use the old HD as storage. Great idea.

 

You'll have to apply the paste on the processor prior to installation: the paste aids the heatsink with conducting...if you do a Google, you'll find plenty of quick tutorials...

I've built many machines through the years, and the best advice I could give you is be careful, be patient, and be humble - don't be afraid to ask questions!

As far as your OS: if you've got a retail or upgrade version, you shouldn't have any trouble installing to the new drive, although you'll probably have to re-verify with Microsoft...however, if you've got an OEM disk that came with the Dell, you might run into some problems - maybe a support check with Dell could answer any questions about the hardware upgrade...

Good luck!

 

I was just told by a poster in the DELL forum that I cannot upgrade my CPU in the Dimension 9200 (XPS 420) from an Intel Core 2 6300 to a Core 2 Q6700.

Does anyone know if this is true, or how I can check which processors are compatible w/ my BIOS DXP061? I need a current list... the one in DELL was several years old.

Many thanks,
Kim