Help refreshing old MAME machine

[coppermouse]

I have a MAME machine I  built about 10 years ago. I want to update it with a graphic font end.
It is an AMD 1.5 Ghz with 256 mb RAM,
I tried to install Game ex unsuccessfully after installing Windows SP1 & SP3 and the dot net framework. When I run it, I get a generic windows error and would I like to report it.
Will this machine run this front end on this hardware?
Is there any front end that will run and show the snaps etc.. without lag?
Can I do any upgrade (ie. RAM) to make it work?
I have one of those Ultimarc or whatever it is called that connects all the joystick and buttons and trackball to it and plugs into the PS/2 keyboard port. If I get a new computer can I keep this and connect it to a USB-PS/2 converter and it will work OK? (since new computers do not have PS/2 ports

[smass]

I would not bother with trying to upgrade your machine.  You could simply get a hold of a 3.0gz core2duo machine for a few bucks or even free.  These machines are generally easy to find on CL and often come with Windows 7 installed.  Also core2duo machines usually have ps2 ports.

A quick search on my local CL and I found a 2nd gen i5 with 8gb ram and a Window 7 coa for $75 askingprice.  Only missing a hard drive.  I am sure if I gave the guy a call I could get him down to $50.  Just a quick example... 

[gdonovan]

I would not bother with trying to upgrade your machine.  You could simply get a hold of a 3.0gz core2duo machine for a few bucks or even free. 

Crazy stuff out there- At the town recycling center where I drop off my trash and recycle stuff I took home a Windows 7 box with a AMD X2 240 (2.8 ghz) 3 gigs of ram. Nothing wrong with it! Wiped the drive, reinstalled Win7 (key was on the side) and its going to be my MAME box.