help with netserver lc3 2nd processor

[dritch]

Hi All,

I have the Netserver LC3 PIII 500MHz, to which I would like to add a 2nd processor.

I have found the 2nd processor upgrade from HP is just too expensive or not available (can't tell which :-).

Can't I just buy a second 500 MHz PIII from any Intel reseller?

What would I need to get? I see on HP's partsurfer page that I might need a VRM? What is this? Do I need it? It only seems to be listed as part #0950-2848 for the PII, not the PIII.

Also, can you point me in the right direction as far as determining which PIII processor I should buy from Intel?

Thank you very much.

Regards,
Dritch

[CA845876]

Yes, you will need another VRM (Voltage Regulator Module). This is a small stand-up board in a socket, about (I'm guessing) 4 cm by 8 cm, that plugs into the CPU board. It regulates the 12V down to the highly stable low voltage that the CPU needs. If you look at the board, it will be in a socket labeled "VRM1" or something like that. You will need to get an HP VRM. Different manufacturers have different from factors for their VRMs, and another brand might not fit. Might be able to find them on eBay if you don't want to order an official one.

As for the processor, take a look at the top of the package, and you should see a long string of letters and numbers that detail the speed, cache size, etc. of the processor. There will also probably be something that says SLxxx, where xxx is some letters or digits. This is the Stepping Level of the processor, and it's important to match it to the processor that you have and know works well. You can look up on Intel's web site what all the numbers mean, or just send the whole string to the person from whom you plan to buy another processor.

If you do not match the stepping levels, it MAY work, or may not. HP typically does not support every stepping of processor, even though they may all be (say) 500 MHz. In fact, the BIOS will check the stepping level, and refuse to boot if it sees something it doesn't recognize. This is because the BIOS needs to download microcode to the processor.

I don't know of a deterministic way to find out if a particular stepping level is supported except trial and error. Certainly, anything HP sells or used to sell has been tested.

[dritch]

Thank you very much for your helpful reply, Roderick.

Regarding the the VRM. On the Partsurfer site under the parts for Netserver LC3, I can't find a VRM for the 500 MHz PIII, only for the PII (part # 0950-2848). Can this be used for a second PIII?

Do you know of any other parts I should be aware of that will be required for a second PIII (such as clips, fans, or heatsinks, etc)?

Thanks again,
Dritch