2010-01-04, 06:48 PM
Okay, regarding pre-built - what is compatible and what isn't. Assume a Dell computer here:
Case - Uses a non-standard case. The screwholes are in all of the wrong locations for the ATX standard.
Motherboard - Screw mounts and backplate are in the wrong places according to the ATX standard to support the non-standard case. The regular ATX screwholes are not present either.
PSU - This is also non-standard because of the different screwholes it uses for the back.
BIOS - Dell utilizes their own customized, restricted BIOS which does not allow you to change any voltages, timings, or clock speeds of any components. The BIOS also performs other finicky operations such as preventing you from installing certain operating systems (I've read about versions which do not let you install XP on it anymore - this is supposedly to help Dell improve customer support)
If you try to buy another PSU, they're gonna charge you at least $100 - 150 for it. If you try to buy a new motherboard or case, they will try to sell you on a new computer.
What is compatible:
- All ports, slots, and plugs are compatible (PCI-E, SATA, SATAII, Floppy, PCI, ATX 20/24 pin, CPU socket, DIMM slots, power plug)
- Case uses standard screwholes and slots for 2.5" and 3.5" drive bays (many Dell desktops have drive cages)
Case - Uses a non-standard case. The screwholes are in all of the wrong locations for the ATX standard.
Motherboard - Screw mounts and backplate are in the wrong places according to the ATX standard to support the non-standard case. The regular ATX screwholes are not present either.
PSU - This is also non-standard because of the different screwholes it uses for the back.
BIOS - Dell utilizes their own customized, restricted BIOS which does not allow you to change any voltages, timings, or clock speeds of any components. The BIOS also performs other finicky operations such as preventing you from installing certain operating systems (I've read about versions which do not let you install XP on it anymore - this is supposedly to help Dell improve customer support)
If you try to buy another PSU, they're gonna charge you at least $100 - 150 for it. If you try to buy a new motherboard or case, they will try to sell you on a new computer.
What is compatible:
- All ports, slots, and plugs are compatible (PCI-E, SATA, SATAII, Floppy, PCI, ATX 20/24 pin, CPU socket, DIMM slots, power plug)
- Case uses standard screwholes and slots for 2.5" and 3.5" drive bays (many Dell desktops have drive cages)