Please Help - Upgrading CPU

mike00mike

Reputable
Jun 29, 2014
10
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4,510
Hello. Would anyone be able to help me? I need help upgrading my processor,
picking out the correct part, and what would be the fastest/best replacement option.
I have the information from CPUID (CPU-Z) I have an Acer Aspire M3470 desktop
with an AMD A8 3820 2.5Ghz processor Socket FM1 (905)
Is it possible to upgrade to a faster processor? If so, what are some options?

Thanks for your help.

Would this be the only alternative for an upgrade?

AMD A8-Series A8-3870K 3 GHz Quad-Core CPU Processor AD3870WNZ43GX Socket FM1

http://www.ebay.com/itm/AMD-A8-Series-A8-3870K-3-GHz-Quad-Core-CPU-Processor-AD3870WNZ43GX-Socket-FM1-/261560059947?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3ce631c82b

If it is an AMD processor, is it possible to switch to an Intel? (i7) or would I have to buy a new motherboard? Thanks again for your help.
 
Solution
If you want to upgrade to intel or a better amd processor you are going to need a new motherboard either way. Your current processor uses socket fm1 which doesnt have many upgrade options. Another thing you may need is a new power supply ( the cpu is going to be of a higher wattage )

So the main thing i would like to know is what is your budget for the upgrade?

gytisxp

Honorable
Jul 20, 2013
992
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11,360
If you want to upgrade to intel or a better amd processor you are going to need a new motherboard either way. Your current processor uses socket fm1 which doesnt have many upgrade options. Another thing you may need is a new power supply ( the cpu is going to be of a higher wattage )

So the main thing i would like to know is what is your budget for the upgrade?
 
Solution

Entomber

Admirable
You should look up the support list for Acer's desktops, since the motherboard in your prebuilt computer may not support certain more powerful CPUs.

But honestly, you shouldn't be looking to upgrade using that motherboard - it is severely outdated, and you will get much better returns on your money if you buy a new CPU/motherboard combo.

You will not be able to use your current motherboard with any Intel processors.
 

mike00mike

Reputable
Jun 29, 2014
10
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4,510
Hi guys. Thanks for your information. I definitely then would like to upgrade my motherboard. I got the computer for free so I wouldn't mind putting money into it. Maybe 3 to 400 dollars. In your opinion what is the fastest motherboard and processor combo for that price range and even if it's more expensive. I would want usb 3.0 and a few PCIe slots. Thanks again for your help. I will mainly be using this machine for video converting/editing, photo editing, gaming, and data recovery. Also the normal use, online, email, video streaming via DLNA, etc. thanks.