AMD put out 5 different versions of the 1700+.... LOL
2 different tbreds both sprouting 2 different versions and 1 palomino.
http://www.overclockers.com/tips00173/
decent reading if ya rusty or want to know more about Athlons.
the noise could be compared to that of an older fridge.. when it's in cooling mode.. my case is an antec clone.. that heatsink is the bomb.. a good 92mm fan will fit.. if you don't need the extreme air flow get a 60-80cfm fan it should be in the 30's for dba..
another thing is :P way way over looked.... check your power supply... I took a Dell P3-1ghz in trade for like 100 bucks in parts.. this guy said the hd works and the burner but the machine is toasted... it sat for like 2 months.. plugged it in and got a reboot cycle it would post then reboot,,, post then reboot... i unplugged her... looked at it.. popped in a cheap enverio1 400w PS it booted and i installed xp and gave it to my brother.. hehe...