Replacing an old processor with new one on same MB.. 1

[beeej21]

Hello all,
I am considering replacing my CPU on my motherboard with a faster one. My question is, if I do so, will that mean that I have to reinstall the OS from scratch and all the software, etc, etc? Or will the system just recognize the new CPU as it does, say, new RAM, and boot normally ( maybe just a little faster now, hee hee)?

I am really hoping to avoid reinstalling the OS and all the software...

My motherboard is an ASUS P4S800D-X and currently my CPU is an older P4 2.0 ( socket 478 ).

Any answers, advise, or tips you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thank you kindly.

 

[paparazi]

beeej21
As long as the bios version includes support for this CPU it is a simple swap.
Note* you may need a better cooler for this more powerful CPU (re-apply quality heat transfer paste)

See the Asus CPU support list for your exact model:

http://support.asus.com/cpusupport/cpusupport.aspx?SLanguage=en-us

You should take note* of your present bios revision (which should be displayed on initial boot)
If you have an early bios version you may need to bios flash.

Martin

We like members to GIVE and not just TAKE.
Participate and help others.

 

[beeej21]

Thanks a million paparazi...

Now I need to figure out how to BIOS flash.. cuz I am pretty sure I have an early version. I've never upgraded or flashed before.

I found a 3.0 P4 Prescott on NewEgg, and am gonna get a ZALMAN CNPS7000B-ALCU cooler to help keep things cooler.. maybe some Arctic Silver paste too.

How do I find out if my BIOS version will support this new CPU? I am gonna comb through the link you gave me again...

 

[addy]

How do I find out if my BIOS version will support this new CPU?

Most motherboard manufacturers' websites have a list of BIOS revisions which should tell you what new support has been added for each BIOS.

I used to use an ASUS motherboard and their is (or at least, was) a utility you could get from ASUS which would scan your motherboard, scan your BIOS and if a newer veriosn was available, it would update your BIOS over the internet.

Worked every time for me without a hitch.

 

[paparazi]

As this motherboard is a fairly "late" socket 478 offering even the factory release bios (1002) appears to support 800fsb prescott 3.0gig.
So it is doubtful a bios flash will be necessary.

http://support.asus.com/cpusupport/cpusupport.aspx?SLanguage=en-us&model=P4S800D-X

Martin

We like members to GIVE and not just TAKE.
Participate and help others.

 

[beeej21]

Thanks for the advice, addy! I checked out the link on the ASUS website, and it looks as though my BIOS should accept the new CPU on its current version.

 

[beeej21]

I noticed that too, Martin, but wasn't too sure. Thanks for the validation. Now I am gonna cross my fingers and hope that once I install the new CPU I won't have any issues. I really appreciate your thoughts, thanks again.

 

[bcastner]

Your change in CPU would give you two counts for reactivation:

. Processor Type
. Processor Serial Number

So depending on other changes you have made a re-activation (not a reinstallation) of XP would not be surprising.

http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/wpa.htm

 

[beeej21]

Thanks bcastner! I was actually expecting the reactivation process once I get the new CPU installed and working properly. I don't mind the reactivation process,... as long as my current windows install still boots up without incident.

 

[paparazi]

A further note*
The CNPS7000B-ALCU is an excellent choice but may require motherboard removal to fit the strengthening bracket on the underside of your motherboard (some motherboards already have adequate bracing plate)
Arctic Silver or similar high grade metal particle paste is prefered (as you pointed out) on these hot Prescotts.

Martin

We like members to GIVE and not just TAKE.
Participate and help others.