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CPU with Virtualisation

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8 Nov 2008
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121
CPU with Virtualization

hi, im finding that my CPU is always the component that seems to be lacking on my system. It is a custom built system, all the parts are actually bought from OCUK. Im happy with my system, it suits my needs and was very cheap, however i think an upgrade is needed. I have put OSX on it and I want to use Virtualization (parallels), however the current CPU does not allow that.

Here are the specs:
Cpu: Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU E5200 @ 2.50GHz, Socket 775 LGA
Mobo:EP43-DS3L
Chipset:
Northbridgem - Intel P45/P43/G45/G43 rev. A2
Southbridge - Intel 82801JR (ICH10R) rev. 00
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GT
OS: Windows 7

I would appreciate some advice please on what is a good CPU to upgrade to that will be compatible with my system.

I found this list:
http://www.gigabyte.com/support-downloads/cpu-support-popup.aspx?pid=2847

Thanks.

If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to voice them.
 
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The problem is I like my system as a Hackintosh, the OSX platform on a PC is not compatible with all hardware. It is however compatible with all Intel CPU's so this is a safe upgrade for me.

I have been looking at a few Q6600's on ebay. I might buy that.

In terms of a CPU upgrade - Is it a simple plug and play operation is it not? There should not be any changes I need to make? I believe my Bios might be already the latest or atleast compatible with the Q6600.

One more thing - Why the Q6600? Is it the price or performance? or both?

Also: Is socket 775 and LGA 775 the same?
 
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In terms of a CPU upgrade - Is it a simple plug and play operation is it not? There should not be any changes I need to make? I believe my Bios might be already the latest or atleast compatible with the Q6600.
Nope, just clean off the thermal compound from the cooler. Apply some (correctly) to the new cpu and replace the cooler. The bios will notify you that the cpu has changed and may possibly require a reset to defaults.

One more thing - Why the Q6600? Is it the price or performance? or both?
Basically because its cheap and still a powerful CPU capable of decent overclocks should you wish to do so. Q8200/8400 would also be a great buy, but Q6600 is cheaper.

Also: Is socket 775 and LGA 775 the same?
Yep, exactly the same mate. :)

You could probably get £15-20 for your E5200 too.
 
Generally, the model numbers make it clear of the pecking order:

Q9... > Q8... > Q6...

The Q9 and Q8 are on a smaller lithography so are quite a bit cooler and more overclockable.

As you've noticed you need VT-x to run parallels 4 or above, which doesn't exist on some CPUs, the Q8200 for example.

Check on arc before you buy e.g. http://ark.intel.com/products/36547...cessor-Q8200-(4M-Cache-2_33-GHz-1333-MHz-FSB)
 
Thanks everyone for the help. I decided to go with the Q6600, got myself a 2nd hand one from ebay for 53 Pounds.
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 SLACR G0 - 2.4 GHz Quad-Core

I do currently OC the E5200, so I am guessing its best to reset the default values for that section before replacing the CPU. While we are on the topic of OC'ing, I managed to OC the E5200 quite easily to 3.2Ghz thanks to the guys at this forum.

What can I expect from the Q6600?

Thanks.
 
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Yes, you should reset the BIOS to defaults before replacing the processor. Most BIOS will tell you to go into setup when they detect a new processor, so it shouldn't be an issue, but it's always best to take precautions just in case :)
 
Ok I cleaned the stock cooler with White spirit, and applied thermal paste. Gonna stress test it now with prime95.

VID: 1.2750v
Temps (IDLE)
Core0:47
Core3:43
Core1:45
Core2:39

Will post temps are prime stress test in about 30 mins or so.
 
Test has been running for about 12 minutes now. I think these temperatures are quite high. Maybe I did something wrong?

fm5is6.jpg
 
I have a stock cooler. Is that what you mean?

This is what i have.
thermalrightlga775bolttna8.jpg


Although I got to admit, I have had a lot of problems getting all the hooks into the mobo, there is always 1 click that just wont go in.
 
Bump.

On OSX the temperatures are reporting as much lower, I have not stress tested on OSX but even with Windows running using virtualization and OSX running as native. Most of the cores was always around 40 degrees.

Should I check the paste or reattach the fan? Just incase?
 
there is always 1 click that just wont go in.

IF it's the same one which wont go in, you could always use a nail file to trim the 'hook' just a little bit.

If you can be arsed, practise without using paste and you should be able to find out which one is giving you trouble. Try doing it with it in different orientations also, you never know.
 
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