Question for Biostar TA790GX owners (or other AM2+ mobo owners)

[AstroManLuca]

I have a TA790GX and PII X3 720 on the way, and I'm concerned as to whether the CPU will work right away. I have heard that you need to apply a BIOS update, but I'm concerned that it would add a whole new layer of hassle to the process. Here's what I'm hoping I can do:

1. Install new mobo/CPU
2. Install Windows
3. Update BIOS if needed (such as if CPU is not showing all its cores or is missing features)

However, this is what I'm afraid will happen:

1. Install new mobo/CPU
2. Doesn't work
3. Install old CPU (AM2 4800+)
4. Install Windows
5. Update BIOS
6. Install new CPU
7. Reinstall Windows again?

The BIOS update utility on Biostar's site is a Windows program. That's why I'm concerned. I just hope it works all at once so I don't have to install my old CPU just to perform a BIOS update. At least I have a compatible CPU available on hand if that's necessary, but it would be a much bigger hassle.

Can anyone comment on whether the X3 720 would work out of the box, at least well enough to install Windows and the new BIOS?

 

[jjmIII]

My 710 worked outta-da-box no problems.

The 710 and 720 are listed as supported procs by Biostar.

 

[Flipped Gazelle]

My X3 710 worked out of the box, no BIOS update required. And I bought my TA790GX a couple of months ago.

In fact, do not perform a BIOS update, even if there is a newer one available, and see if you can unlock the 4th core.

 

[Devlyn]

Anyone with experience with this board and the 9850? Looking to purchase and don't have a backup processor to do the BIOS update if it doesn't recognize it from the start.

 

[Flipped Gazelle]

Originally posted by: Devlyn
Anyone with experience with this board and the 9850? Looking to purchase and don't have a backup processor to do the BIOS update if it doesn't recognize it from the start.

No worries there. The TA790GX game out way after the 9850 did.