Is it possible to upgrade the CPU with my motherboard?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of upgrading a CPU from an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 to an Intel Core 2 Extreme on a specific motherboard. Participants explore hardware compatibility, including socket types and chipset limitations, as well as the broader implications of upgrading components in a desktop computer.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant confirms that the current processor uses an LGA775 socket and suggests that most Core 2 Extreme processors are also LGA775, indicating an upgrade is possible.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the upgrade due to the northbridge chip's specifications, suggesting that compatibility may not be guaranteed.
  • A participant questions the cost-effectiveness of upgrading to a Core 2 Extreme, noting that prices are high compared to newer CPUs like the Core i7.
  • One participant argues that upgrading a CPU alone is generally impractical, as it often necessitates upgrading the motherboard, RAM, and possibly the power supply unit (PSU) as well.
  • Another participant warns about potential compatibility issues beyond just socket type, emphasizing the importance of the northbridge and chipset in determining compatibility.
  • A later reply suggests researching overclocking the current CPU as a potential alternative to upgrading, while also noting that corporate motherboards may not support overclocking well.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility and practicality of upgrading the CPU. While some believe an upgrade is possible, others raise concerns about compatibility and the broader implications of upgrading multiple components. No consensus is reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include uncertainty regarding the northbridge's support for the proposed CPU upgrade and the implications of upgrading other components alongside the CPU.

The_Absolute
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Click the link for specifications on my desktop computer.

http://www.gateway.com/systems/product/529668208.php

I was wondering if it is possible in terms of hardware compatibility to upgrade my CPU from a Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 to an Intel Core 2 Extreme. I'm not sure if the motherboard's socket type as well as the computers other components will support it. I believe it is an LGA 775 socket, but I'm not sure.
 
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junglebeast said:
Your current processor has socket type LGA775,

http://processorfinder.intel.com/details.aspx?sSpec=SLB6B

With the exception of the QX9775, all the other processors in the Core 2 Extreme processor series are also LGA775...so yes you can upgrade

http://processorfinder.intel.com/Li...55,47,48,56,50,51,52,&ProcFam=2559&SearchKey=

Looks like the QX9770 is your best bet

I don't think I'll be spending more for that CPU than I did for my whole computer. I don't understand why the Core 2 Extremes are actually more expensive than it's faster successor, the Core i7. When will the prices of the Core 2 Extremes drop?
 
It's pretty pointless to upgrade a CPU by itself because the latest and greatest CPU will always use a different chipset. This is why most people upgrade CPU and motherboard together. And if you're upgrading the motherboard, you usually have to upgrade the RAM. And of course, you probably need a new PSU to support the new CPU...and unless you recently upgraded your GPU...well, you get the idea. It makes sense to upgrade everything all at once, except for perhaps the case, which you can keep for a few cycles :P
 
Be careful upgrading that CPU. As far as I can tell the Northbridge doesn't support it and unless things have changed, your interface isn't the only thing that will decide whether or not your CPU will be compatible.
 
Pengwuino said:
Be careful upgrading that CPU. As far as I can tell the Northbridge doesn't support it and unless things have changed, your interface isn't the only thing that will decide whether or not your CPU will be compatible.

With my chipset, socket type, and North Bridge/Southbridge, what is the fastest Core 2 Quad processor that I can upgrade to in terms of compatibility?
 
research overclocking you current chip
best case it is free
worst case you planed to junk it anyway
core2 chips are known to overclock well

but you most likely will need a better mother board
as Gateway and most other CORPs use cheap M/B
 

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