Is there a FAQ or QuickStart on Wintel processor upgrades?

[eppur_se_muova]

I know I need a 478-pin processor, and there are a few out there for well under $100. How can I check whether a particular CPU is compatible with my MB? I'm trying to boost a Dell Optiplex 2350 (2 GHz) and only looking for a speed bump -- may have to settle for 2.4 GHz, but chips up to 3.0 GHz are out there. How to decide?

Also, I'm not expecting simple plug-and-play, so what else is needed? Reinstall OS? Odd software patches, etc?

I've upgraded dozens of Macs, but need to know where to start on a Wintel box.

[hobbit709]

1. First go to dell.com

support and enter the service code. You can then find out the original configuration and what upgrade possibilities you have. Dell motherboards are fairly proprietary and an older variation may only handle 400/533 bus speed when you may need 800 for a faster cpu. Some 478 mb's can handle a Prescott core cpu and some can't.
My personal preference with Dells is keep the drives, junk the rest.

[eppur_se_muova]

2. Thanks! You may have saved me a lot of needless searching. nt