Archived from groups: alt.comp.hardware.pc-homebuilt (
More info?)
Dave C. wrote:
> "pb" <patrick@caterpats.com> wrote in message
> news:a8d1bf08.0406090905.177f9c9d@posting.google.com...
>
>>I am working on an old machine and trying to save some $$$. Is it
>>possible to add USB ports (at least 2) and a NIC to a American
>>Megatrends Motherboard with a CytrixIntsead 6 x 86 Processor?
>>I also need to add some more memory. Any suggestions would be helpful,
>>please try to include specs.
>>
>>Thanks
>
>
> Does it have (2) open PCI expansion slots?
> Does it run Windows 98 SE (second edition) or later?
> Can you find old memory for it for a reasonable price?
>
> I think your stumbling block here is probably going to be memory. If you
> can't get it upgraded to 256MB or more for a reasonable price, stop there.
> You need to find out the exact make and model number of the motherboard to
> determing type and configuration of supported memory, as well as
> compatibility with existing RAM. That is, to upgrade your memory, you might
> have to REPLACE your existing memory. But the only way to figure that out
> is to read the manual for the motherboard. Once you figure out EXACTLY what
> type of RAM the motherboard will take, search for it on ebay and froogle.
> If you are successful in finding RAM to upgrade it to 256MB or better, then
> proceed. . .
>
> Again, is it running 98SE or later OS? Does it have two open PCI expansion
> slots? You should be able to get a NIC and an PCI format expansion slot to
> add USB ports really CHEAP off ebay or froogle or pricewatch. But make sure
> you figure out how much this project is going to cost you, including the
> memory upgrade and shipping charges, before you order anything.
>
> You might find it's cheaper to start with a new barebone system, as most
> motherboards now have built-in USB and NIC. Also with a barebone system,
> you are likely to be able to afford more memory than you could hope to ever
> install on that 6x86 class system. -Dave
>
>
If you want to, it will run run Linux, and, if you need a router,
firewall, or network thinclient, it could do well, also.
http://ltsp.org for the thin client data.
IPCOP for the dedicated and hardened firewall/router - check out on
http://distrowatch.com
To run any modern OS, my minimum is 300 Mhz cpu, and 96Mb RAM.
But, I prefer at least a 400Mhz cpu, with 128Mb RAM.
Anything slower or less can be an IPCOP router/firewall.
Been finding IBM DeskPro 5000/ 6000 (PII 500 through PIII 667 Mhz
systems) from $79.00 at salvage dealers (depending upon included
features/accessories), flea markets, and computer shows such as
http://marketproshows.com , and,
http://pricewatch.com or your local
junk dealer, salvage outlet, or, school board auction (pallets of 30 -
35 systems boxes run about $300, here, in the auctions).