Ben761 said:
any chance I could canibalise most of the bits? - e.g. can I remove the processor, heatsink & fan from this motherboard and put them into another one?
Yes, yes you can. That system uses a standard Socket 478 CPU and has standard DDR memories.
I would not try to re-use the cpu fan though for two reasons: 1) the stock dells are junk, and b) a superior cpu cooler that you can re-use on the next upgrade can be like $12 US hehe.
Example of parts you could use to build a basic, AGP-based Socket 478 system using your spare parts:
Antec case with SmartPower 400W PSU - $89.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811129163
Asus P4P800-VM Motherboard - $84.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813131460
Now for CPU cooler and thermal paste:
Thermaltake P4 Spark5 CPU Cooler - $11.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16835106024
Arctic Silver 5 Thermal compound - $5.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16835100007
Videocard? I'd say start with an X1600 Pro or 6600GT. Both are good entry level but fully featured 3D cards that will play all new games quite well:
Powercolor X1600 Pro 256MB AGP - $114.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814131427
Basically, you'd pull your CPU, memory, floppy/hd and cd/dvd drive and put these in the new case. The Celeron cpu will fit in this motherboard.. plus you can expand down the road easily with any Socket 478 Pentium 4 or Celeron CPU if you desire more power. It's an AGP system, which is being phased out, but on a budget- it will make for a good system.
You'll want to re-install Windows XP for best results (meaning burn to cd/backup all your important data and have the install cd's for any desired software handy for re-install)- so if you do not have a copy of OEM Windows XP CD around (NOT the Dell recovery XP disks), you'll need to borrow one or buy your own. You can re-use the XP serial from the Dell as this will be on a sticker on the case. Windows Activation will complain but all you'll need to do is call their 1-800 number and explain you've changed the motherboard/upgraded.
Good luck!