How to Increase the Processing Speed of a 486 or Pentium-Based Computer
If you have a 486 or Pentium computer, you might be able to increase the speed by adding an Intel Pentium OverDrive processor.
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Instructions
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Determine the brand, if any, and model number of your computer. If the computer does not have a brand name, try to find the brand name of the motherboard.
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Check the "Upgrade Guide for Branded Systems" on Intel's Web site or at a local computer parts seller, or contact Intel's Customer Support through their Web site, to determine if your machine can be upgraded. If it can, take note of the OverDrive processor part number you will need to use.
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Determine if you will need to upgrade your computer's BIOS to add an OverDrive processor.
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Find out if you will need to adjust jumper switches or make other changes to your computer to add an OverDrive processor.
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Check the Internet for dealers if you are comfortable with upgrading your own machine. Intel provides detailed instructions for installation with the processors.
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If you lack expertise or manual dexterity, find a dealer who can also install the processor for you.
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Tips & Warnings
Intel has discontinued OverDrive processors for 486s, and more recently for Pentiums, but the processors are still available from resellers. Intel's Web site lists some reseller sites.
You can upgrade a Pentium 75 to a Pentium 150 MMX; a Pentium 90, 120, or 150 to a Pentium 180 MMX; a Pentium 100 or 133 to a Pentium 166 MMX or 200 MMX; and a Pentium 166 to a Pentium 200 MMX. Intel didn't manufacture any faster OverDrive processors.
Intel OverDrive processors all cost less than $100.
Third-party manufacturers, such as Evergreen Technologies, also make overdrive processors.
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Comments
View all 7 Comments-
apexminder
Apr 15, 2009
what???!!! -
apexminder
Apr 15, 2009
what???!!!
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Nov 22, 2005
When you're overclocking your CPU, a simple heatsink and fan upgrade is all that is needed to keep your CPU cooler. Heatsink and fan combos typically run from $10 to $60 (at least the really nice heatsink and fan combos are almost $60).
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Nov 22, 2005
Since new software requires use of new hardware, I advise you save the $100 and use it to purchase a totally NEW computer IF yours is over 3 years old. The performance of a faster CPU will not make THAT much difference.
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Nov 22, 2005
Check the user's manual to see if different bus speeds are supported by your motherboard. It they are, increase the bus speed to the next available speed. Example: change bus speed from 60 MHz to 66 MHz or from 66 MHz to 76 MHz.
