This is a computer that my dad will be using mainly to browse the internet, so the upgrades have to be just enough to handle an upgrade from XP and other newer software. Even he has noticed it getting sluggish lately.
I can replace the motherboard and upgrade the memory, graphics, and CPU for <$150...I'm buying parts that were high-end in 2006. If that'll keep the computer going at least a few more years I'll be happy. Perhaps a new PC would be a more cost-effective move...but I love keeping my machines going as long as possible. A little perverse, maybe...but I consider it a hobby of sorts.
I'm pretty certain this processor has the NX feature you mentioned. If so, I should be able to run 64-bit Windows 7?
Thanks for the heads-up on the RAM speeds...I'm going to swap out my 2x512MB @ 533MHz for 2x1GB @ 667MHz. That will at least meet Windows 7's minimum system requirements. If I need to I can get another 2x1GB set to max it out.