Upgrading Cpu Help

It seems the Compaq's mobo has an AM2+ socket which is compatible with both AM2 and AM3 CPUs. It also states the the mobo is limited to 95w CPU.

The CPU you picked is socket AM3 so it will not fit.

Here's a list of AM2+ CPUs, but the quad cores are rated at 125w.:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=E...

I thought am2+ was compatible with Am3. and the 125w's wouldnt work without fear of messing up the crappy mobo. right?

after more research the cpu in it is actually AM3 so I think im going to try the one I mentioned and pray it works:\

your biggest concernis cpu TDP do not use a 125 watt or higher cpu.. it overheats the voltage regulators on the board which is why they say 95 watt max other than that any AM2+-AM3 chip should work as long as the bios supports it

This is unfortunately a little tricky because the HP Site is not detailed on what it does or does not support... they just say Phenom II X4 or Phenom II X3
They don't say Athlon II X4

Also the support.asus.com page does not list that motherboard so I would not know where to get the bios updates if required.

The following should be compatible and perform really well.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168...


(Edit I just noticed the pc came with a 2.7 Ghz Athlon II @ 2.7Ghz)


Best cpu for gaming ATM would probably be the Phenom II X3 @ 3.0Ghz
Best cpu for multitasking and light gaming would be an Athlon II X4 between 2.8Ghz and 3.0.



Considering you were looking at the Phenom II 945, (not possible due to 125W TDP)
I would recommend getting the Phenom X3 @ 3Ghz and find a videocard such as a Radeon 4650, 4670, 5650, 5670

This will make the pc run most games like Starcraft 2, Battlefield Bad Company 2 run pretty well on 1650x1050