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Resolved Question

Upgrading my computer

Dec 21, 2011 9:03PM PST

So I've decided to finally upgrade my computer. But I'm going to be doing it piece by piece. I'd like to start with the processor and graphics card as I play games more than anything(RAM would be after these). I understand I would probably have to upgrade my motherboard as it is more than likely it's slighted outdated. However I need feedback on this before I make a purchase(Be pointless getting processor etc and not being able to install it due to a non compatible motherboard). So this is my motherboard now : http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=2470&dl=1#ov I'm looking at getting the AMD Phenom II X4 Quad Core 960T Black Edition "95W Edition" 3.00GHz (Socket AM3) And MSI GeForce N210 1024MB GDDR3 "Low Profile" PCI-Express Graphics CardSo my main question really is would my motherboard run these 2?My current specs are 2GB RAM, dual core 2.4 GHz and 256MB graphics card(Used to be the **** back in the day).My budget is fairly low so if you have any reccomendations then please try and keep the price as low as possible. Thanks very much Happy

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StevieT91 has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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Just my opinion.
Dec 22, 2011 12:31AM PST

I'd skip changing the CPU on this on.

The GPU looks to be that N210 which is better than most onboard GPUs. However I'd like to see at least the near 100 buck cards from this list (changes every month) at:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/fastest-graphics-card-radeon-geforce,3067.html

The 6670 is notable because it may not require you to change the power supply. Tell more about the PSU to be sure.

For GAMING this is the bang for the buck.
Bob

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Answer
Re: compatibility
Dec 21, 2011 9:14PM PST

On the page you linked to is button (in the left column of buttons) labeled "CPU Support list". That should answer your questions about compatibility of any CPU.
And the specification tab says it has a PCI Express x 16 slot. That's meant for a video card. So choose a video card that PCI-E x16.

Kees

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Thanks for the fast reply!
Dec 21, 2011 10:06PM PST
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Answer
Upgrade
Dec 21, 2011 11:23PM PST

Your mobo is socket AM2.
It says it will support the AM3 cpu you have selected.
But....but...but.

From gigabyte.
(Note) If you install an AMD AM3/AM2+ CPU on AM2 motherboard, the system
bus speed will downgrade from HT3.0(5200 MT/s) to HT1.0 (2000 MT/s);
however, the frequency of AM2+ CPU will not be impacted.


Your call.

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Thanks Bob
Dec 21, 2011 11:36PM PST

In what way will this effect my computer's performance? (Sorry for all the newbie questions, but I'm not too clever when it comes to PC's xD)

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Well
Dec 22, 2011 6:01AM PST

I think it's saying your going to go up in one area.......the cpu.......but down in another area.....the bus speed.
The net result of that is unknown to me.
If you really want that AM3 cpu it might be best to shop for a AM3 mobo.
Then you get the best of both worlds.

If the budget is tight it might be best to leave this area alone and follow the advice of R.P.
Only you know what the budget is.