Upgrade CPU 2

[eugenetyson]

I want to install a CPU into my computer. I know how to do it, but I don't know if my motherboard is compatible. How can I find out? I currently have a 3ghz processor but want to upgrade it to a dual or quad core. Would I need to buy a new motherboard too? If so, how can I be sure it will fit into my case comfortably? Also, any ideas on a motherboard spec that I would need? Again, I know how to swap hardware in and out of the PC but I've never done a CPU upgrade, or motherboard upgrade.

Currently I have

3ghz processor
800mhz fsb
3gb DDR 2 500mhz ram
2 dvd writers
A "floppy drive" woooh!!!
A few usb ports at the front and back etc.

Also it has SATA drive.

Obviously I don't need a new computer, well I don't think I do, I think and upgrade of my CPU will be sufficient.

Anyone with any advice, any questions or any tips for making this change is greatly appreciated.

 

[Aussie2]

Need a bit more imformation on your motherboard like model,brand,AMD,Intel etc

 

[eugenetyson]

Board: Dell Inc. 0U7077
Serial Number: ..CN481114CS01MU.
Bus Clock: 800 megahertz
BIOS: Dell Inc. A05 03/16/2005

3.20 gigahertz Intel Pentium 4
16 kilobyte primary memory cache
2048 kilobyte secondary memory cache

Dell Inc. Dimension 8400
System Service Tag: G2SPN1J
Chassis Serial Number: G2SPN1J
Enclosure Type: Mini-Tower

 

[paparazi]

This Dell mini ATX motherboard appears to be based on the Intel 925X express chipset that does not support Core2 Duo/Quad processors.
It may however support the older generation of pre-Core2 Duo CPU's See CPU support list.

http://www.intel.com/products/chipsets/925x/index.htm

I'm not sure that given you already have a 3.2 800fsb 2meg cache part fitted, that you have much to gain by going with an older dual core CPU (if they fit)
And....this is a Dell, so motherboard swap out for something newer will likely be problematic due to multiplug connections and incompatible pin outs.
Also the power supply is unlikely to have the required output for a dual/quad core CPU.
All said...my recommendation would be to sell your base unit as a going concern and build yourself a new unit based on AM2+ or later Intel chipset 775 for latest dual/quad support.
Martin

On wings like angels whispers sweet
my heart it feels a broken beat
Touched soul and hurt lay wounded deep
Brown eyes are lost afar and sleep

 

[wahnula]

eugenetyson

I found this info about your board:

It has a 925X Intel chipset

http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/dell-dimension-8400-pentium/4505-3118_7-30919189.html

and further research led me to the processor compatibility of the 925x chipset:

http://www.intel.com/products/chipsets/925x/index.htm

Where it states

Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor supporting Hyper-Threading Technology
Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor Extreme Edition supporting Hyper-Threading Technology

So, no, it will not support dual-core or quad-core CPUs. Sorry...

Tony

Users helping Users...

 

[wahnula]

You may verify the chipset by running this utility:

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

Tony

Users helping Users...

 

[eugenetyson]

Fantastic, you all get splats for helping me out. I guess I will have to sell up and move to a bigger base.

On another note, would anyone know if and when quad core laptops would be available in Europe? It would be nice. I need a power machine for the type of work that I do.

 

[wahnula]

LOL Martin, you and I were on the same web page at probably the same time 5,000 miles apart! Ain't this Web wonderful???

Tony

Users helping Users...

 

[paparazi]

Yeah! two sad b.......stards trying to help a complete stranger.
Like you say..from different worlds with different lifes and back grounds.
Makes you think dunnit.

As always..a pleasure.
Martin



On wings like angels whispers sweet
my heart it feels a broken beat
Touched soul and hurt lay wounded deep
Brown eyes are lost afar and sleep