Before wrapping things up, I threw in some results from MadOnion's 3DMark2000. This Direct3D benchmark can be downloaded at no cost and allows the default benchmark to be run without registering the software. Since the end result of 3DMark2000 is based on the game benchmarks, I only ran the game 1 and 2 tests.
3DMark2000 Game 1 - 1024x768@16bpp
The final result was 6892 3DMarks at the Ultra's default clock speed and 6998 overclocked. Argh! Only 3 more points and I would have made the coveted Insane category.
3DMark2000 Game 2 - 1024x768@16bpp
A faster processor would help out performance in 3DMark2000 quite a bit. If you take a look at the scores for the top 20 webmasters, the majority of them have 1GHz+ processors and a GeForce2 GTS and are hitting 7500-8500. Scores are flying throught the roof for those with a GeForce2 Ultra.
Similar to the experience with the first system I ordered from GamePC, their technical support staff answered all questions to my satisfaction, configuring and ordering was a snap, and the system arrived on time. The only special favor I asked was for free shipping in exchange for writing this review.
As for my overclocking experience with this system - if I wanted to assure that I could run at 933MHz, I would have bought a system elsewhere. GamePC does not endorse overclocking and they will not sell you an overclocked system. I took a chance and it didn't work out. No big deal. In another six months I'll grab a 1GHz processor.
While there are no guarantees when it comes to overclocking, I've run across a few interesting news post mentioning that Intel may be overclocking their own CPUs to compete with AMD's higher clocked processors. Is it possible that Intel has been hand picking 700Es with excessively high yields and stamping them with higher rated speeds? If this is the case, maybe that's why I, and others, ended up with overclocking unfriendly CPUs.
With all the hardware bells and whistles set aside, a bigger problem for me has been solved. There is now a calm around the house as we rarely fight over using the PC now. My wife is in a better mood, which is a good thing.
Linksys 4-Port Cable/DSL Router
Of course the kids weren't satisfied with the second PC not having an Internet connection or not being able to share files, but that problem was solved a few days later when I picked up a Linksys Cable/DSL router. More on that at another time.
Life is good once again.
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