Question about updating CPU and RAM

[slypie]

Guys, I'm wanting to put a Q6600 into my PC (Upgraded from a E6600) and upgrade from 2GB Ram to 4GB Ram. My question is will I need to reinstall Windows after upgrading the CPU (Never upgraded a CPU in my PC before). Also will the PC see the 4GB Ram on Windows XP Pro using 2X 2GB Ram sticks. I know the limitation of Windows 32bit is 4GB but I've heard people installing 4GB only for the OS to see 3GB.



Cheers in Advance

Michael

[Tetras]

If your using 32-bit Windows you'll get around 3GB yes.

Windows should be fine adjusting to the new CPU.

Check your motherboard supports it before you upgrade, it should.

[[GSV]Trig]

Check that your BIOS is upto date, the manuf's website will say it supports it but if your on an older BIOS it might not...

I would also say take the board out as well if your upgrading, trying to do it all in situ can have bad consequences...

Gives you the chance to clean all your fans etc as well, I always fully strip mine down for a clean when its upgrade time...

[slypie]

cheers for the info guys

[Splash]

In order to make use of all 4 cores you will need to reinstall Windows, yes. If you just drop the CPU in it will work, but only see 2 cores.

[jackvdbuk]

In order to make use of all 4 cores you will need to reinstall Windows, yes. If you just drop the CPU in it will work, but only see 2 cores.

i went from a one core to dual core and it all worked fine, it installed a driver or somin for it

[Splash]

inerresdin'.... I've only ever upgraded one CPU in such a way and it only saw one core - would be interested to see how the system was modified to access the other.

I'm only speaking from my experience here, and am certainly not saying it could never be done btw