Let's say I wanted to Upgrade my CPU...

[ibanezrocker06]

...since it is the weakest part of my rig ( Phenom II X2 545 @ 3.0 Ghz)

If I wanted to upgrade to a Phenom X4 955 @ 3.2Ghz Black edition. What steps would I take before and after replacing the processor?

[KarmaKiller]

step 1: Shut down PC
step 2: Unmount your heatsink
step 3: Swap out CPU's
step 4: Reapply paste
step 5: Mount heatsink
step 6: Power on PC
step 7: Enjoy your new CPU.

[stroyal]

It is also possible that you will be sent to the BIOS on first start up to confirm the upgrade at least.

Usually all you do is save and exit the BIOS.

[ibanezrocker06]

So that's all there is to it? I thought there were things you had to change in the BIOS. Will there be any thermal paste residue on the heatsink and will it need cleaned off?

Also, I know this is the wrong board but I figured why make another topic lol. I want to upgrade my 320gig HDD to at least a 720gig HDD. All I know is that after I replace it and boot it up, I should be sent to the BIOS. How and when will I install my OS? Also I'll be using my Windows 7 upgrade option disk, but I already registered my product key..can I still register it again?
Thanks for replying, imma total PC noob

[stroyal]

You should always clean off the old paste when changing paste, Isotropy alcohol works for me.

If your BIOS setting for CPU is set to AUTO you shouldn't have to do anything, but save and exit the BIOS when you start the first time after the upgrade.

[ibanezrocker06]

Well the CPU is on the way. But a few last questions. Would it be ideal to update the BIOS BEFORE putting in the new processor? Is there any harm in updating it if it doesn't really need one? My Mobo is an MSI 77-C45 btw, and it says they support the Phenom 900 series.

[Aaron_8015]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ibanezrocker06

Well the CPU is on the way. But a few last questions. Would it be ideal to update the BIOS BEFORE putting in the new processor? Is there any harm in updating it if it doesn't really need one? My Mobo is an MSI 77-C45 btw, and it says they support the Phenom 900 series.

Is it a 770 C45?

MSI Global – Computer, Laptop, Notebook, Desktop, Mainboard, Graphics and more

If so you shouldn't need a bios update for it...... should run fine....

[ibanezrocker06]

Oops My bad. It is a Phenom II X4 955. And the mobo is a MSI 770-C45. Sorry for the typos.

[Aaron_8015]

Edited ^^^

[ibanezrocker06]

Okay so good news then.What exactly would happen if the new CPU did require a BIOS update but didnt have one?
Sorry for all the noob questions lol