Motherboard swap.

[wise1man]

I want to replace an ASUS m2n78-la MB out of an M9350F with an MSI ms-7548 MB that came out of a m9500y. Do you foresee any issues I might have.

Any suggestions?

Helpful hints?

I'm all ears (eyes.... fingers?)

[old_geekster]

Wise1man, the first thing is that you won't be able to use the Recovery Discs that came with the computer.  The HP motherboards (mobos) are tattoed with the major components of the computer.  This means that you will have to buy a full copy of Win7.

Also, assure that they are the same Form Factor.  You have to assure that the hole spacing on the mobo is matched to the standoffs on the case.  Otherwise, you may get shorts.

The only other concern is the connectors for for the power button and other front panel items.  HP does use some proprietary connectors.

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.

[wise1man]

Thank you for your reply Old_Geekster. I'm good with the OS. I have a retail copy of Windows 7. Form factor on both is micro ATX, and I can deal with switching connector terminals.

Is there anything else you can see from a side by side comparison on this site?

[old_geekster · Accepted solution]

Wise1man, it is my pleasure.

I wasn't aware that the MSI mobo was a HP.  This will make a difference with the connections.  They may be fine.  I reviewed both of them side by side and didn't see any problems at all.

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.

[lasvegaswireman]

Here are the specs for the HP m9350f and its M2N78-LA Viola motherboard. Here are the specs for the  HP m9500y and its MS-7548 Aspen motherboard. The systems are almost indentical and you should be able to swap components around as needed.

Assuming all components work, I would suggest the MS-7548 m/b, Phenom X4 9850, 460 watt PSU, 8GB or more of RAM depending on initial configurations, GeForce 9800 GT, TV card, b/g/n wireless card, either HDD, either DVD-RW, and a 15 in 1 cardreader w/ IR receiver.

If you every go back to Windows Vista, the HP recovery discs from the m9500y should install on the modified system.

Frank

[wise1man]

Thank you as well, sir. Sounds like all the pieces I have to work with.

Wish me luck... and thanks again to you all!

[Big_Dave]

Hi,

You will have an issue with the HP Recovery Disks since the new new motherboard does not have a HP tattoo.  This was mentioned by OG in his post.

[wise1man]

Yes sir. Understood. Thank you!