How will changing CPUs affect Windows XP?

SiliconGuy1001

Junior Member
Apr 19, 2003
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Hello

I am thinking about upgrading my computer from P4 1.8a to a 3.0C. I know that XP, and anything with the NT kernel, is VERY hardware sensitive, but will changing the CPU make Windows XP grumpy? I have had very bad experiences when changing my motherboard, video, etc, everything execpt the HDD. The computer wouldn't boot. Please tell me from your experience if switching CPUs (without reformating) will affect the OS?

Thanks!
 

ChampionAtTufshop

Platinum Member
Nov 15, 2002
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nope, not at all

does the 3.0C support hyperthreading?
if so, you'll probably have to go in and change it to a smp compatible system (or something along those lines....) if windoes doesnt auto detect it

 

bozo1

Diamond Member
May 21, 2001
6,364
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XP should detect the change the first time you boot. It may or may not need your XP CD to copy over the SMP kernel.

 

ChampionAtTufshop

Platinum Member
Nov 15, 2002
2,667
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well i havnt gone from non HT to HT processor
but i have gone from xp1700+ to xp2100+ to tbird 1ghz all in few hours and it all worked just fine in winxp

it is essentially the same as overclocking the cpu, in a way, to have it be recognized as a completely different cpu (ie, my xp2100+ now registers as an xp2700+ or something)
 

boyRacer

Lifer
Oct 1, 2001
18,569
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i thought you had to do a complete reinstall of XP Pro if you switch from a 'regular' CPU to one that had hyperthreading...