sdI need help finding a motherboard. I have a Dell Dimension 3000 with a 3.0 processor. The problem is that I want to use this system as a gaming computer and it only has PCI slots. I now know that Dell computers are not great for gaming and that PCI graphic cards are not great. I also found out that Dell has made it difficult to upgrade their pc’s. And before anyone suggest t hat I just get a new computer you need to know that it's NOT and option, as I just rescently purchased this one and can not afford a new computer for a few years. This is why I want to upgrade the mb only.

What I want is to up grade the motherboard with one that has free AGP slots or PCI express slots, and RAM ungradable to 4gig (if possible). I need it to fit into my existing case and use my existing power supply. I currently use DDR 3200 RAM and would like to keep it that way. In other words, I just want to keep my existing equipment with just a switch of the motherboard. Is this possible? If so can someone PLEASE suggest a good and affordable motherboard? Oh yeah, I need it to have onboard sound if possible. Thanks for any help.

Hi Kelly -- welcome to PCHF

I can certainly empathize with your issue... but due to this Dell model's minimum specs-- I am afraid you WOULD be better off replacing the tower-- at minmum.

The issue with Dell's is that they not only have minimal performance for gaming ... but also just BARELY enough power to supply all their components. In order to change the mobo in this PC --and get the graphics performance you want, you would have to change:

the motherboard-- and it would need 4 slots for RAM = $120
add an AGP or PCI-express video card =$85
AND upgrade your 250 W power-supply to run all the new toys-- to at least 400W-- preferably 500 =$85
with all those new features-- onboard sound won't cut it.
+ 75 for a sound-card +80 for decent speakers

for $349 you could do this...

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...958&CatId=1883

and save all the aggravation of trying to change all your hardware.

then sell your tower to get some back?

I agree,don't upgrade your dell,buy all new and sell the dell.
Dell=Junk to me.I have worked on plenty of the junky things.

Thanks for the help guys . Not quite the answer that I had hoped for, but looks like all I'm going to get. I guess I'm stuck with a PCI video card and the few games that will play on it, for now.

Thanks again

Marked as answered.