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So i didnt realize this would be an issue but there doesnt seem to be very many motherboards that are compatible with the 45nm chip. the other thing is i need a board that still offers two ide slots unless there someway to use my same hdds with sata. any help would be helpful oh btw im not a hardcore gamer but do my share of it. thanks

Dani AI

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Short primer: the E8400 is a 45 nm Core 2 Duo (LGA775, 3.0 GHz, 6 MB L2, 1333 MHz FSB). Most LGA775-era boards made in 2007-2008 will run it, but many require a BIOS/firmware update or explicit listing on the manufacturer's CPU support page. As suggested, check vendor CPU support lists and BIOS notes before committing.

Quick checklist to avoid surprises:

  1. Verify the motherboard CPU support list for the exact model/stepping and note the minimum BIOS version required.
  2. If the board ships with an older BIOS, update it before or as soon as you can (some vendors provide utilities or boot-flash options). If you cannot flash without a supported CPU, options are borrowing an older LGA775 CPU or using vendor service.
  3. Confirm the board supports 1333 MHz FSB and the RAM type (DDR2 vs DDR3) you plan to use. Also check VRM quality if you expect sustained loads.
  4. Check SATA power availability on the PSU if moving drives from PATA to SATA.

PATA (IDE) drive options and caveats:

  • Add-on controllers (PCI or PCIe) are a common fix for a missing second IDE connector, but not all controllers expose a BIOS/option ROM. If the controller lacks boot support, the drive will be invisible for OS install/boot until drivers load.
  • Passive SATA-to-IDE adapters that let an IDE drive plug into a SATA port work for many HDDs and optical drives, but require a separate power connection and can be hit-or-miss with some older devices.
  • For best long-term reliability and performance, migrate data disks to native SATA where possible and keep PATA only for legacy devices or occasional use (external USB/adapter).

As discovered, an add-on controller is a practical workaround. After installation, validate boot order, install correct drivers, and run a SMART check on drives moved to adapters or controllers to ensure stable operation.

Member Avatar for Member #416567

thanks for the reply. after doing some research i bought an ASRock motherboard with the P43 chipset. and to fix the issue of not enuf ide slots i just got a pci controller for my dvd drive.

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