my cpu is currently clock at 185mhz x 11 @ 1.8v (stock hsf) and temp. 57c when loaded. i read that amd 2500+ voltage max. at 2.?v. is it safe for me to try it at 2.0v and try make it to 3200+ with stock cooling?

If you can get it to run stable @ 2.0v and you somehow manage to keep your temps under control go for it. Most people hardly have to raise the Vcore to 1.8v to achieve a 3200+ clock speed with the 2500+ bartons, do you have any auxilliary fans in your case viz airflow configuration. B4 you criticize a bigger man, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, you're a mile away, and you have his shoes.

there is 1 front case fan and 1 rear case fan + power supply fan. side panel fan is taken out as i think that's not necessary. i've tried increasing fsb to 190mhz with cpu voltage 1.85v, and it seem ok. my main concern is at 2.0v will my cpu get fried? thanks.

It would help if you told us what board you have & what speed RAM (PC3200?). I've never heard of anyone having to crank their voltage up as high as 2.0v just to get a 2500+ to run as a 3200+. If you're at 1.85v at 190MHz, I highly doubt another 0.15v would be necessary just to gain another 10Mhz. Here's a few suggestions: - use CPUZ to verify your settings, including your voltage...some boards overvolt, some boards undervolt. http://www.cpuid.com/cpuz.php - Use default RAM timings. Hopefully you have PC3200 & you're running it in SYNC with the FSB. Don't mess with the RAM timing until you're satisfied with the CPU settings. - If you can, lock the PCI/AGP at 33/66MHz. - Make sure any Spread Spectrum settings are disabled. Asus A7N8X-X 1800+ @ 8 x 210MHz 512MB PC3200 Asus Ti4200 128MB WinME/WinXP Pro