SDH: Again, your help is much appreciated.
Here is my current plan:
1. Buy one (or two) new CPU, replace the existing CPU with a new one -- fire it up and see if it works.
Lot of 2 Intel Xeon Quad Core E5345 2.33GHz 8MB LGA771 SLAC5 CPU Processor
US $11.99 free shipping
Questions:
* It sounds like you have had success buying from ebay sellers. (Most have good ratings.) Anything to watch out for?
* Regarding BIOS, you wrote: "Remember to update the BIOS first even before doing anything else." Update the BIOS ... with what? Do I need to download and install a BIOS update? Or do you mean change the BIOS settings?
* I use linux (ubuntu). It seems that I would not need to change anything with the linux OS when I install a new CPU. Is that correct?
2. If the single new CPU works, buy a second heatsink. Install a second CPU and heatsink, and see if they work.
HP XW8400 XW6400 Workstation CPU Processor Heatsink W/ Fan 398293-001 398293-002
$17.99 free shipping
Questions:
* Is there a (second) power plug for the second heatsink? Or will I need to buy a splitter?
* It appears the heatsink requires 4 screws to attach it to the board. Will it come with the 4 screws? (ebay post does not say.)
3. If the new CPUs work, follow-up with your other suggestions (new memory and new SSD drive)
Other questions:
* How can I PM you? I don't see a link for that. I would appreciate a copy of your CPQSETUP.TXT file.
* What is the purpose of new optimized BIOS settings? Are there settings that are currently disabled that I should enable for use with new CPUs?
* I thought you might notice the dust. It seems to mainly be around the memory chips. Do the chips attract dust?
That's all I can think of for now. Thanks again.