EggXpert

Is it possible to upgrade my motherboard? If so, can I get a few recommendations from Newegg?

Thanks!

Dell XPS 400
Intel Pentium 4 Processor 540 (3.2GHz) with HT Technology & 1 MB cache
Updraded to G.Skill 4GB from 1 GB DDR2 SDRAM at 533 MHz
Upgraded to GeForce 8600 from 256 MB ATI Hyper Memory PCI-Express X16 Radeon X600 SE
160 GB Serial ATA Hard Drive (7200 RPM)
20" Ultrasharp 2005FPW Widescreen Flat Panel

Maybe, but I don't think it would help much. The XPS 400 is 3+ years old now, it's the BTX form (not the ATX most commonly used), and quite frankly, your best option would be to build a new PC, keeping the hard drive, cd/dvd drive, video card, and memory. Invest in a new power supply, motherboard, processor, and case would be the best thing to do.

agree with Leon.

if you only upgrade a motherboard, I think it is better to get a new CPU too.

 

 

Sorry, at first I was going to say sure, just replace the motherboard, memory, CPU and power supply (typically proprietary in older Dells so junk them) and you should be ready to go for under $300.  But I agree with Leon.  As a BTX box, it is not worth trying.  Nobody makes BTX motherboards anymore, any you find have been sitting around a couple of years.
 
Buy or build a new box.  You can continue using all the peripherals that plug in to your current system saving some bucks.  You can reuse your video card, SATA hard drive, DVD burner and floppy if you are happy with it.  But the rest would make a good spare or server.

 edit -- I quickly nuked the comment about the video card, because I had not really registered that you had something better than what came with the box.  But Leon was too quick for me  (just like a professional -- didn't they make a sequel?), so I am adding this comment to explain where Leon's quote came from.  You could definitely get by for a while with your current video card if money is a consideration. 

FascistNation:

I imagine a much better video card can be had for $100.

Indeed. It's pretty common to see a 9800GT for $125 with a ~$20 rebate; careful with rebates though, since CPG, the largest rebate processor, appears to have claimed bankruptcy and the status of rebates right now is unsure. There may be a couple of good deals on Black Friday (only...11 days away now), or you could stick with your 8600GT if you are still satisfied with it, and upgrade later when you feel it's necessary.

Thanks guys for the info! I think I'm going to go for it and build a new computer. Pray for me...lol!

Cool, and be sure to check out the System Builds section for recommendations/suggestions, and the A+ Hardware Support section if you have any problems getting things going