In need of suggestions for new CPU

[itsdaveyj]

Hello,

Lately I've been having frequent BSODs and random crashes while playing videogames, watching streams, watching long playlists on Youtube, etc.

I had run some tests on what was causing these issues and determined it was a stop 0x124. After that, I have tried updating all drivers for my computer. Nothing seemed to be fixing the issue. So I think I need to replace a piece of hardware. To help figure out which piece of hardware is the problem, I have run stress tests on my CPU, GPU, etc. The only stress test that resulted in a crash and BSOD was my CPU stress test.

So if I'm right, I need to replace my CPU. My problem is that I don't know what is compatible and figuring out whether or not the specs are superior (I would like my new CPU to be an upgrade).

My current CPU is an AMD Phenom II X4 955. Here is a link to it on Newegg:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103808

Just to be safe, here is a picture listing all the parts of my computer from when I originally bought it:

Thanks!

 

[manofchalk]

That chip and the board use the AM3 socket, so getting another AM3 chip is most ideal.
However AM3+ is backward compatible with AM3, so I advise doing that.

How much are you willing to spend on a new CPU? Also what do you use the machine for? Guessing it was a gaming rig back in the day.

 

[itsdaveyj]

I'm willing to spend around $200. I could probably go a bit higher if the difference is worth it.

And yes, it was (and still is) a gaming rig. Works fine for the games that I play. Though I do plan to upgrade my GPU whenever I can afford to.

 

[manofchalk]

Then I advise an FX-8320. $180
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819113285&Tpk=FX-8320
Your board might need a BIOS update to support AM3+ Processors.

There is the possibility that the board may not support AM3+, as AM3+ support in AM3 sockets is not official.
If this is the case, to get a new chip will require a new mobo, which will also require a new OS since that an OEM copy.
Which I am guessing is more than you expected to pay.

So two options from here.
1. Take a gamble and get an 8320 and hope the BIOS update will make it work. If it doesn't then you will need to get an AM3+ mobo and a new OS.
or
2. Play it safe and buy another AM3 processor. Will slot right without issue and doesn't require a new OS. However, you will have the same performance as before.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103727

 

[itsdaveyj]

Hmm neither of those options sound good. I don't want to risk buying something and have it end up not being compatible.

I understand needing to get a new motherboard but why would I need a new OS?

 

[manofchalk]

Because that is an OEM copy with an OEM key. OEM keys tie themselves to the motherboard they are installed on, so that key will only be valid on that motherboard. If you attempted to install Windows with the same key on the new motherboard, you would get an invalid install.

 

[itsdaveyj]

Gah. Always a catch with everything.

Alright I suppose I will give that a go then. I think I still have a Windows XP or something laying around that I could use until I can afford to get a Windows 7 disc.

One last question: The piece you suggested has only one review which worries me somewhat. Could you explain why you chose that particular piece over something like this?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103960
I have a feeling it's a newer model or something?

 

[manofchalk]

It is a newer model actually. Piledriver over Bulldozer, with nearly a 10% improvement in some cases.
My first instinct was actually to suggest an 8350, as it is the flagship of AMD CPU's right now and as such is much more reviewed. But it cost $220 versus the 8320's $180, so I went for the cheaper option as you had said you didnt want to go above $200.

If its the same relationship between the 8350 and 8320 as it was between the 8150 and 8120, they are the exact same chip. Just the 8350/8150 is higher binned (ie quality) so it can overclock further and comes at a higher stock speed.

 

[manofchalk]

^ Forgot about the Hex Core Thuban chips.
Thats a good option if you want to play it safe.

 

[itsdaveyj]

Thanks for all the help! I really appreciate it.
I don't do overclocking anyways so I'm guessing the 8320 is better? I don't mind going $220 if it is going to be vastly superior. $40 is a lot for only a slight improvement.

And jrgong could you please elaborate on how it might be a worse gaming cpu? And I won't be pirating Windows. I already have an older Windows OS to use until I can afford buying a new one.

EDIT: Nevermind. I think you meant that AM3 chips are worse than the AM3+ chips, correct?

 

[manofchalk]

If you are not overclocking, then the 8350 is the better option. Comes with a higher stock clock and turbo clock. The 8320 would be good if you were overclocking, then you can get 8350 performance for $40 less.

Think he meant the comparison between the older Phenom CPU's versus the newer Pildrivers. Not necessarily a platform thing.

 

[itsdaveyj]

Alright then. I think it's been all worked out. Hopefully I won't need to upgrade my mobo but we'll see.

Again, thanks for the help!

EDIT: Just want to share these:
http://www.asrock.com/news/events/2011Bulldozer/
and
http://www.asrock.com/support/QA/TSDQA-AM3+.pdf

Now, I don't think that is the exact same CPU but it is an AM3+ right? If that is the case, then my motherboard is listed as compatible for it with a BIOS update. Perhaps it extends to all AM3+ CPUs then?