CPU's

[Rlbeatty]

I am considering replacing an AMD Athlon 64 3500+ CPU with an AMD Athlon 64x2 4200+ CPU. It is in a Dell Optipex 740 desk top with standard heat sink and no CPU fan. I have three concerns. CPU power consumption and cooling and will I have to reinstall the operating system? I would like to do this without having to install a CPU fan. The computer will be used for mostly web browsing and playing facebook games. It is for my mothers computer and we would like to do it in the most cost effective way. Any help in this matter would be appreciated.

 

[GhislainG]

The Dell OptiPlex 740 uses a BTX motherboard. The CPU is at the front and the 80mm fan pushes enough air through the heat sink to cool it. You'll have to install a CPU fan or find an alternate way to push enough air to keep the heat sink cool.

Since you're not replacing the motherboard, you won't have to reinstall the OS.

 

[popatim]

I think those came with up to x2 5200+ processors so maybe you could find a system pulled cpu on ebay or the like with the correct heatsink already on it.

 

[Rlbeatty]

The Dell OptiPlex 740 uses a BTX motherboard. The CPU is at the front and the 80mm fan pushes enough air through the heat sink to cool it. You'll have to install a CPU fan or find an alternate way to push enough air to keep the heat sink cool.

Since you're not replacing the motherboard, you won't have to reinstall the OS.

Is it absolutely necessary to install an additional cooling fan? Since I have submitted this question I have done more research and have learned that all Dell Optiplex 740's appear to have the same configuration regardless of CPU type or size. I have already purchased a 64x2 4200+ from Ebay with no CPU fan.

 

[GhislainG]

Sorry, but I thought that the CPU was from an OptiPlex 740 and that you'd install it in a different system. You don't need an additional fan if you're installing it in a 740 as it should provide adequate cooling.

 

[Rlbeatty]

Sorry, but I thought that the CPU was from an OptiPlex 740 and that you'd install it in a different system. You don't need an additional fan if you're installing it in a 740 as it should provide adequate cooling.

Thanks allot for your response to my questions. My only other concerns is power consumption. The Optiplex 740 has a stock 280 watt power supply. I intend to run this with 3 GB ram. Will this power supply be sufficient?

 

[GhislainG]

Which AMD Athlon 64 3500+ is installed? Depending on the version, they draw between 47W and 89W. You can use CPU-Z to find out which one is installed.

Don't worry about the RAM as its power requirements are low.

 

[Rlbeatty]

Which AMD Athlon 64 3500+ is installed? Depending on the version, they draw between 47W and 89W. You can use CPU-Z to find out which one is installed.

Don't worry about the RAM as its power requirements are low.

I think you have answered all my questions. Thank you. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

 

[Rlbeatty]

Which AMD Athlon 64 3500+ is installed? Depending on the version, they draw between 47W and 89W. You can use CPU-Z to find out which one is installed.

Don't worry about the RAM as its power requirements are low.

Hi,
I'm back. Upon further investigation I have revealed that the AMD has both the AM2 and 939 sockets for the processors I have asking about. I assumed I had a 939 pin processor. I believe I am incorrect. I have not physically viewed the processor or computer yet. I bought them both on ebay. I am just trying to be prepared for once they arrive. I noticed that the 64x2 processor is an AM2 socket. The computer with the Athlon 64 did not state whether in was AM2 or 939 socket. I do know the computer has DDR2 ram and I believe this is not compatible with the 939 socket. So the computer must also be a AM2 socket. Is my assumption correct?

 

[GhislainG]

I'm not sure about that one. It should be AM2 socket, but it would be easier if you knew what motherboard is installed, e.g., YP696. Is it a desktop or a minitower?

 

[Rlbeatty]

I'm not sure about that one. It should be AM2 socket, but it would be easier if you knew what motherboard is installed, e.g., YP696. Is it a desktop or a minitower?

I looked into the Optiplex 740 tech specs and it listed 940 pin for the processor for all three computers, so I feel I'm on the right track. I guess since I have already bought the processor at the most I will have to return it for a replacement. I will verify the part numbers when I actually attempt to upgrade the processor. Again thank you for your help.

 

[Rlbeatty]

Best answer selected by Rlbeatty.

 

[Mousemonkey]

This topic has been closed by Mousemonkey