Need to replace processor in xps 420

Question

My  processor e6600 duel core 2.6 went bad and needs replaced. does ayone know if i can replace it with a q9400  2.6 quad core. My old e6600 was 1300fsb and so is the q9400. When i bought my system I think it had an option to buy it with th q9400 but i am not sure.  I cant see any reason it wouldnt work but when i called dell the just keept trying to sell me the whole mother board with the processor already installed on it. or sell me another service plan. I couldnt get a strait awnser. I have a xps420 with 4 gig of ram and a ati hd2600xt video card.  Any imput would be a help.  scott

chrisjanice · Answer

Scott,

I also have a Dell XPS 420 with the Intel Q6600 that I want to upgrade to a Q9550 processor. I also called Dell and got the run-around, so here I am.

I did leave an inquiry on this forum a few days ago and a kind person sent me some information. Here's the link: http://en.community.dell.com/forums/t/19242670.aspx

It seems by all accounts that you need to have the latest bios; A07. Also, it's suggested to keep the Dell processor fan and keep the Intel fan in the box (if you purchase an Intel processor kit in the box).

Here are the questioms I have that I haven't found an answer(s) to?

1. If I go up to a 1300FSB with the Q9550, can I use DDR3 memory? I thought the Q6600 was a step below the 1300 FSB?

2. Can the Q9550 be overclocked? If so, How?

3. I currently have an Nvidia 8800GT with 512. Is there a newer graphics card for the XPS 420, that will have great gains over the 8800GT?

4. Can I install 8gb memory (currently 4gb) and still use Vista 32bit until I move on to Windows 7 64bt?

Thanks,

Chris

shesagordie · Answer

SCOTTHNSLY

You can find a list XPS 420 supported processors HERE

Prior to installing the processor, you need to upgrade the BIOS to the latest version A07, with version A06 added support for newer processors was added.

Bev.

New to Dell Community

Need to replace processor in xps 420

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