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8963
July 5th, 2009 20:00
Hardware upgrade
I have a couple of 4500s and a 4550. I would like to upgrade these with say a new motherboard. I like the case design and would like to keep the cases and upgrade the motherboard to bring them up to current standards to run Windows 7. At least dual core and 3-4 gb of memory and sata drives. Anybody done this or have recommendations? The 4550 case is the best and allows for multiple drives and components. Know new systems are really cheap but I have built my systems for quite awhile I would like to build these up.
Thanks
fireberd
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33.4K Posts
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July 6th, 2009 04:00
First this is the AUDIO section.
But, possible but not probable or worth it. Dell uses a proprietary motherboard - both in physical size and custom (and undocumented) front panel connection, and thus a non-standard size case and rear motherboard I/O shield. As cases are relatively cheap ($50 for a case that is as good or better than the Dell case) it isn't worth the hassle of trying to modify a Dell case and the proprietary front panel connections. Basically you are building a new PC, as there will be very few (if any) components from the old systems that are useable.
The 4500S model is even worse since it is not a full size case and uses even more custom components.
ronhawker
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July 6th, 2009 09:00
Thanks, I kinda expected that but it seems a shame to throw them away. Hard to even donote them anymore. Sorry about the crosspost, I though I posted to the hardware forum.
fireberd
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July 6th, 2009 12:00
The sad part is old PC's (any old PC, not just Dell) are basically "boat anchors". Technology changes so fast that it doesn't take long to become outdated. Add that to all the Dell proprietary items and there isn't much left.
rdunnill
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July 6th, 2009 13:00
I believe it's possible to install a new microATX mainboard in the 4550 case, but you will need to figure out the proprietary, undocumented wiring for the front panel. If your 4550 does not have a Soundblaster front panel audio connection, you will need to figure that out, too.
You probably can do something similar with the 4500S.
fireberd
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July 7th, 2009 07:00
Standard motherboards can be fitted in many Dell's, but most do require some type of case modification. And, with the Dell proprietary and undocumented front panel connection on many models it's just not worth it. A "decent" case can be bought for $50 (and sometimes less when on sale at CompUSA) and for $50 it isn't worth the effort.
Also, consider that case design, especially the cooling or air flow circulation, has been greatly improved over old case designs. Thus if you want to upgrade to a new motherboard/CPU that requires more cooling you also have to take in consideration the design of the old case.