Member Avatar for BAEZ

Hello All!:

First of all i would like to say that my knowledge as far as computer is Average. Meaning i have never built a computer from scratch. I am just very knowledgable in regards to applications and softwares within the operating system.

My current Specs are:

Motherboard: Soyo SY-K7VKPE (Socket Type - A)
http://www.dealtime.com/xPF-Soyo-Computer-Inc-VIA-KT600-AMD-Socket-A-V2

Chipset: VIA VT8377 Apollo KT600

CPU Type: AMD Athlon XP, 1000MHz (10 x 1000)
CPU Alias - Barton
L2 - 512KB

System Memory: 2048MB (PC3200 DDR SDRAM)

VideoCard: NVIDIA GeForce FX 5500 - 256MB

My question is, I want to upgrade to the highest possible Processor that is compatible with my motherboard. Any recomendations? I cant seem to find one or maybe im not looking in the right place...

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Dani AI

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Short answer: on Socket A (Socket 462) Soyo boards the fastest commonly available upgrade in the Athlon XP family is the Barton-series Athlon XP 3200+. That chip is the top-end Socket A XP and is the most realistic “big” upgrade without moving off the platform. (techpowerup.com)

A few important caveats (this is where most threads go sideways): many older boards will physically accept a faster Socket A CPU but fail to boot or be unstable unless the BIOS contains the microcode and voltage/FID support for that stepping. The Soyo SY-K7VKPE is listed as supporting Duron/Athlon/Athlon XP class CPUs, but the final usable CPU depends on the board revision and the BIOS on hand — check the board’s CPU support list and the available BIOS changelog before buying a faster chip. ()

Quick checklist to follow before buying a Socket A upgrade:

  • Confirm the exact board revision printed on the PCB and record the current BIOS version (POST screen or system-info tools).
  • Compare that revision to the manufacturer CPU support/BIOS notes (look for added Barton support or 200/166/133 FSB fixes). ()
  • If the board BIOS lacks support, search for a BIOS update (follow Soyo’s flashing instructions in the manual and back up current BIOS). (manualslib.com)
  • Verify Vcore/FSM requirements for the target CPU (some Bartons require higher Vcore) and ensure the board’s VRM and the PSU can handle the load.
  • After install: clear CMOS, fit a proper heatsink + thermal paste, boot with minimal devices, then verify FSB/multiplier settings in the BIOS.

Given age and market realities, hunting an inexpensive, well-tested Athlon XP 3200+ can be hit-or-miss; many people (as hinted) find it more practical to replace motherboard+CPU+RAM with a more modern platform rather than chase a marginally faster Socket A chip. (en.wikipedia.org)

References: TechPowerUp Athlon XP 3200+ entry (specs), Soyo SY-K7VKPE product note, and Soyo SY-K7V manual for BIOS/setting details. (techpowerup.com)

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Member Avatar for caperjack


Doesnt matter tho, they dont make the socket types anymore for my MB... Upgrade MB here i come! ahhhhhhhhhhhh :(

I thought you new that ,I thought you were just looking for the biggest cpu the old board would take,without buying a new board .
You will likely need a new power supply ,new video card[unless it has onboard video] ,new Ram ,as the new boards will not take you old stuff ,except maybe the power supply if it has enough wats!

Member Avatar for BAEZ

I thought you new that ,I thought you were just looking for the biggest cpu the old board would take,without buying a new board .
You will likely need a new power supply ,new video card[unless it has onboard video] ,new Ram ,as the new boards will not take you old stuff ,except maybe the power supply if it has enough wats!

Yeah that was my original intent but it seems that old AMD procesors are super highly priced. It almost seems more reasonable to just get new MD, CPU & RAM.

I appreciate your help tho! :)

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