Find out if a processor is compatible with your motherboard

The range of processors that a motherboard can have, is determined by the chipset of the motherboard and by the BIOS version. Each motherboard comes with a manual that contains a list of compatible processors. Baseboard manufacturers often put this information on the Web to provide information. In many cases, the BIOS can be updated or "Flashed", allowing faster processors of the same type.

You will need to:
  • Plate user's manual
  • Screwdriver
  • Lantern
Steps to follow:

one

Check the user manual. Locate the list of specifications, which includes a range of compatible processors for each board.

two

Turn off the computer and remove the cover of the box, using a screwdriver if necessary to remove the screws that hold it. Inspect the motherboard with a flashlight and determine the manufacturer's number and model of the plate if possible. Check the manufacturer's website for more details on compatible processors.

3

Check the website of the manufacturer of the equipment if you have one and see the different processors that are offered for the same model of your PC. This method is not always accurate, since there could easily be different processors from the same manufacturer for a particular series of equipment.

4

Contact technical support to determine which motherboard is installed and the range of compatible processors.

Tips
  • Wait six months before buying the latest CPU to allow the price to go down considerably as other models are introduced to the market. Compare similar CPUs of the same series by the cost per clock cycle, dividing the GHz number of the CPU with the cost. For example, a 2.5 GHz CPU costs $ 125, $ 50 per GHz ration, while a 3.0 GHz CPU that costs $ 300 has a ratio of $ 100 per GHz.
  • The intermittent BIOS procedure is known to sometimes cause serious problems with the motherboards, sometimes causing the system to crash or not to boot. This can be expensive on older motherboards replacing the motherboard it is also required to update the RAM, CPU, video card and even the power supply in some cases.