|
PureBytes Links
Trading Reference Links
|
Sean,
I agree the more advanced users will need a more advanced operating system
(probably NT) and a faster processor. However, for the average user who uses
a wordprocessor, a spreadsheet, or other applications (such as MetaStock),
the technology already exists and doesn't need upgrading.
5 years from now, no matter how much wordprocessors, spreadsheets, or the
other apps have progressed, a 300 MHz CPU will still be able to handle the
load. AGP is the new graphics format and will someday replace all PCI video
boards. Despite Intel's refusal to support AGP with Socket 7, a company
called VIA (http://www.via.com.tw/) has designed a chipset which will allow
Socket 7 users to access to the AGP slot.
Next year all competing CPU manufacturers, AMD, Cyrix, and now IDT, while be
coming out with faster processors. These processors will also feature better
FPU and MMX processing.
The only other feature which should be addressed is the bus speed. Even at
66 MHz, the contemporary bus design is showing strain. Anyone seriously
considering a onetime upgrade should wait until the new 100 MHz bus speed
motherboards become available.
By the way, for those who don't know: the PCI bus operates at 33 MHz and the
AGP slot operates at 66 MHz (runs faster). Socket 7 is the connection all PC
CPU's, except the Pentium II, use to connect to the motherboard. The Pentium
II uses a slot called Slot I. I believe all CPU's communicate with the rest
of the system at 60-85 MHz, typically at 66.
Daniel L. Martinez
In a message dated 97-11-21 12:12:07 EST, sesmith@xxxxxxxxx writes:
<< You are so sadly mistaken. We'll see if 5 years from now if your still
using an
Pentium II 300???? Just like no-one will ever need more than 640K of ram!!!
:)
Why AGP??? Video has not been a bottleneck for years in the 2d world. 3-D
is obviously
another story and is needed mostly for cad work and games. >>
On Friday, November 21, 1997 10:13 AM, DanMartinz@xxxxxxx
[SMTP:DanMartinz@xxxxxxx] wrote:
> Looks like Intel is going to pummel the competition. February will be an
> excellent time to buy a Pentium II 300 MHz at about $550. A 300 Mhz is
> probably the last CPU any end-user will need to buy, as long as he has an
AGP
> video board. I recommend the Diamond Multimedia Viper V330.
|