AM3 CPU fit in a AM2+?

ssmacc · 31 Mar 2009 at 08:15

I have asked this in another thread but am still not 100% sure.

Can a AM3 CPU fit in a AM2+ moatherboard? (some PhenII state AM2+ and some don't) for example

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-236-AM&groupid=701&catid=6&subcat=1328
AMD Phenom II X4 Quad Core 940 Black Edition
Is detailed as a AM2+

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-238-AM&groupid=701&catid=6&subcat=1328
AMD Phenom II X3 Tri Core 720 Black Edition
Is detailed as Socket AM3

I'm tempted to get a 780G board with a Phenom 720 CPU but the boards are AM2+ and the CPU is AM3?

Thanks

MeatLoaf · 31 Mar 2009 at 08:18

I think they will fit yes but only certain mobos will support AM3 chips

gt_junkie · 31 Mar 2009 at 08:36

They'll both fit and work fine.

Just make sure the board you choose does support these chips. Many will need a bios update first.

gt

Quixote · 31 Mar 2009 at 08:49

To expand a little.
The AM3 chips will work in both AM2+ and AM3 boards, with DDR2 or DDR3 respectively.
The AM2+ chips will only work in AM2+ boards with DDR2 and are not compatable with AM3 or DDR3.

ro55o · 31 Mar 2009 at 09:18

Just make sure if you do go with the AM3 CPU and AM2+ motherboard that it doesn't require a bios update to take the new CPU. Some boards will work straight from the box, like the new asus boards

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-325-AS&groupid=701&catid=5&subcat=1377

ssmacc · 31 Mar 2009 at 09:24

thanks everyone, think i've got it now. Soon as i sell one of my old PC's i'll post a spec for a quick check!