Updating Motherboard and CPU

Fireside

Reputable
Aug 7, 2015
7
0
4,510
So, i recently had gotten an AMD FX - 8350 cpu for a Christmas present, but my mobo will not work with the cpu. I looked online and found a decent motherboard, it is the GIGABYTE GA-970A-UD3P. But i don't really know what to do when i get my mobo. Can i keep my HDD? Do i have to install windows again? I don't really know about this stuff.

Anyway thanks for reading my thread and i thank you for any answers you have!
 
Solution
You can keep your HDD and Windows should automatically re-detect the hardware, however reinstalling Windows would be the best way.
You will need another Windows key as the current key ties to your motherboard, unless it's a full retail key you can't reinstall on a new motherboard.

When you get the mobo? Put in the CPU, cooler, thermal paste, and transfer the RAM, SATA, power, and case connectors, as well as your graphics card(s) and you should be good to go.

meaga1n

Reputable
Dec 22, 2015
189
0
4,760
You can keep your HDD and Windows should automatically re-detect the hardware, however reinstalling Windows would be the best way.
You will need another Windows key as the current key ties to your motherboard, unless it's a full retail key you can't reinstall on a new motherboard.

When you get the mobo? Put in the CPU, cooler, thermal paste, and transfer the RAM, SATA, power, and case connectors, as well as your graphics card(s) and you should be good to go.
 
Solution

barto

Expert
Ambassador
As previously said, it's best to simply re-install windows. Did you build your PC or did you purchase it out right? (Dell, HP etc). If you purchased the computer from Dell, the Windows is OEM and tied to the motherboard. If you built the PC, it's possible the Windows you acquired is a retail version and transferable to another motherboard. A call to Microsoft can help with transferring Window's Keys.