The biggest stumbling block you will probably come across in putting a faster cpu I the system is not the clock speed but can the board support the new lower voltage chips? It is becoming increasingly rare to see the older non-mmx chips being sold at computer stores and it is unlikely your board can support the mmx versions of the P5 166 and 200.

One option is to use an Intel Overdrive processor. I have had good luck with these, but they are VERY expensive. Usually more than a new processor and board combo would be.

Thus, the best recommendation I can give you is to get a new board and processor. As for names, I like ASUS and Tekram as I have found the least number of compatibility issues with the wide variety of software and operating systems we test here at FTALK central.

Be sure to look for a couple of things when you get a new board to ensure a better upgrade path later. First, try to get a board that has both standard and ATX power connectors on it. PII boards all use ATX and very soon you will see most cases being offered more prevalently with ATX power supplies. This is nice for things like soft power off that will be in WIN98. Get a board that uses 168 pin SDRAM. This memory is much faster and is available in higher densities at better prices than the 72 pin memory you are currently using. If your budget doesn’t allow for the purchase of the memory at this time you can find boards that support both formats, but keep in mind that you should not mix the two types as it can produce unpredictable results. Make sure the board has USB ports on it and get the connector when you get the board. USB will soon be the standard for devices connected to your PC and if you don’t have it you will not be able to use all those neat toys that will be released at Christmas time.

Good luck in getting that board and let us know how it turns out.

Bees