Switching Processors?

Question

I have an intel pentium 4 1.60 GHZ processor and I want to switch to an Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHZ. Will my motherboard be able to do the switch? If you want more info on my motherboard you might be out of luck I'm not sure where to check for and Unit # or whatever.

Answer 1

Well technically the switch is possible. However, as you pointed out it is difficult to say without motherboard details. The only hitch would be the FSB speed. The size and other specs would match. If you are using a branded computer you will easily be able to get the specs at the manufacturer's website all you need to know is the model no. of the machine. That should be on a sticker on the back of the tower.

In case you have an assembled computer, open the case and check next to the RAM slot on the board. It should have a number their. The manufacturer's name and logo would also appear on the board itself.

Answer 2

It depends on what socket your motherboard has. It may not be possible to do the switch at all if

http://processorfinder.intel.com/Details.aspx?sSpec=SL5VL

the above link is your processor because of the packaging type (423 pin).

if your 1.60 Ghz processor is

http://processorfinder.intel.com/Details.aspx?sSpec=SL5VH

then you have a better chance of upgrading to

http://processorfinder.intel.com/Details.aspx?sSpec=SL6PG

this chip. But even still this only describes the physical socket type. Your chipset will have to be identified to see if your chipset will support the FSB of the faster Pentium 4 3.0 Ghz.

But IMHO, you're better off just getting a new computer instead of going through the headache of just upgrading the CPU. You can easily get a new system for about $400 to $500 including the monitor after rebate. Just upgrading the CPU alone will not improve your system's performance dramatically if other parts of your system are holding your computer back (bottleneck problem).

Answer 3

See the below article on identifying your motherboard by using the bios number which comes up when you switch on the computer.

This bios number can be used to identify the motherboard make and model without even opening the case!

Once you know the motherboard make and model you should be able to goto the manufacturers website and download a manual or get the information you need as to what processors will work with that motherboard.

I have used this method myself and know it works!

Here is the link....

http://www.pcnineoneone.com/howto/moboid2.html

If you need any more help let me know ;)

Answer 4

regrettably, no the AMD is socket 462 while the Intel is both socket 423 or 478 (i imagine). So in case you pick to change, you'd be desiring to purchase a sparkling socket 423 or 478 motherboard and for the small speed enhance, i does not advise it.

Answer 5

well u would need to know what motorboard.
u can get this by download a program like syssoft sandra, everest2000. i would suggest syssoft sandra.
since it will give adv tech info. or speak to the maker of the machine.

Answer 6

Talk to a computer store.They will help you.If you do it yourself you'll end up throwing the computer away.To me the problem isn't the CPU.It's the way that the BIOS is adjusted then sealed up.

Answer 7

It should work provided you socket will accept it, T/T the comp tech at either circuit city, or at least a neighborhood shop

Answer 8

it will probably work but I recommend contacting Intel or whoever made the computer

Answer 9

yea put it in there.. if it doesnt fit... just push really hard.. or break the pins off that are stopping it from going in. :)