I have a compaq 7462 and I want to upgrade the processor. I do have an XP machine, but I want to use this as a second computer. The compaq has no processor right now, but it did have an AMD K6-2 500MHz in it. Could I get a faster processor, like a thunderbird? What would it be able to support? Thanks.

Q: What do I need to know about upgrading an older socket 7 system? A: Due to compatibility issues that are often encountered with new processors in older systems, the most effective upgrade solution consists of the AMD-K6 processor with an AMD recommended motherboard. By replacing the motherboard, you will avoid the numerous BIOS and voltage issues common to other types of processor upgrades. AMD strongly recommends selecting a motherboard from the recommended list in order to ensure proper motherboard support for the AMD-K6 processor. Details on each motherboard, including processor setup information, are included for each board on the recommended list.

With a SS7 MoBo you are stuck with the AMD K6 max 550mhz overclock poss 600mhz. These were discontinued some 3 years ago and no the later SocketA (Thunderbird etcetcetc)will not fit, totally different. Buy a MoBo and CPU if the case is standard ATX or scour eBay for a second-user CPU. Have you looked thru Compaq support at www.hp.com??