Sizing a CPU cooler by TDP: what the watt ratings do and do not tell you
What TDP, PL1, PL2 and PPT really mean, why cooler watt ratings are not a standard, and how to size a cooler for a stock or overclocked CPU, old or new. Keep reading »
PC Builds & Upgrades
Power supplies, storage, memory and upgrade paths for old and new desktops, chosen from specifications rather than hype.
Latest in PC Builds & Upgrades
Anti-static basics for home builders: what actually protects your parts
How much static it takes to hurt a PC part, what wrist straps, mats and bags really do, the plugged-in PSU debate, and a short checklist before every build. Keep reading »
DDR2 vs DDR3 on LGA 775 boards: what your chipset can really use
Which LGA 775 chipsets take DDR2, DDR3 or both, the real capacity limits per chipset, the 4 GB module trap, and when DDR3 actually helps an FSB system. Keep reading »
Choosing a power supply for an older PC: wattage, rails and connectors
Work out what an old desktop really draws, read 80 PLUS ratings and 12 V rail labels, match 20+4, EPS and PCIe plugs, and know when an aging PSU should retire. Keep reading »
The SATA SSD upgrade for old desktops, done properly
Why an SSD transforms an old desktop even on a SATA 3 Gb/s port, plus AHCI mode, cloning vs a clean install, TRIM, mounting, power adapters and checks. Keep reading »
Is a Core 2 Quad PC still useful? Honest jobs for an LGA 775 machine
What an LGA 775 Core 2 Quad or modded Xeon PC still does well, where it falls short, and which upgrades are worth doing before you retire it. Keep reading »