Question for the computer builders...
 

OK, I have a P4 2.4G machine at home and I was offered a P4 3.2G processor for free. Will they swap in without a problem? Also, I think the 2.4 machine is a Celeron. Any compatibility problems? Thanks!

run this tool, and report back on which socket you use.

http://www.cpuid.com/cpuz.php

It is unlikely to work. Faster CPUs tend to take lower voltages in the core and possibly the interface. Older boards do not support these lower voltages.

You never know...

I think both chips are from the same era. I'll know more when I get home and I can run the util.

Find out what socket the faster CPU is, and find out what socket your home CPU is... You got nothing to lose is they are the same.

You can find out all kinds of amazing things about computer hardware simply by finding some sort of identifying number on the component and punching it into Google. If you do not know the socket family of your new CPU, simply type in the model number that is stamped on the chip.
Next, I usually find the model number off the motherboard by looking around with a flashlight, which I then also type into Google. This usually leads me to the MB manufacturer's web page, from which the motherboard installation manual can usually be downloaded. Once this document is obtained, one can find the CPU's listed that are compatiable with the motherboard in it, and the information on what the socket family is there as well (or you can just continue to look with the flashlight, the socket number is printed on the CPU socket itself, usually seen slightly above the CPU). If you discover you have a compatable CPU in the same socket family, and it is listed in the MB documentation as acceptable for that board, after that, it is pretty simple, just plug it in and the MB should auto-detect the change.

I would agree to check on the board's specifications. It may or may not work with it even if the physical specifications work. It does depend on who made the board if it's 3rd party and or a major manufacturer whereby you can consult their site to see if it is upgradable but typically the support is sparse because they'd rather have you buy a new one.

I've never had much trouble finding documentation, they don't want you bugging them for it, so they put them out there. I've found docs for boards 10 years old, even. P4 boards should be out there all over the place, especially if it is an Intel board.

OK, I ran the CPUID ap. and I actually have a true P4 on this computer. Socket 478mPGA.

Seems likely the P4 3.2G chip should work...