BIOS update

[wla3389]

I know that my IPEL-LA3 motherboard currently has Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU E5300. My computer is too slow, so I want to upgrade to Core 2 Quad Q6600. I want to save BIOS update to USB before buying CPU in case there is a problem.

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@wla3389, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
You're absolutely right about upgrading the Core 2 Quad Q6600 in the HP Pavilion Slimline s5150t CTO. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth upgrade:

✅ Step 1: Motherboard Compatibility Details

Motherboard Specifications:

• Socket: LGA 775
• Chipset: Intel G33
• Max TDP support: 95W
• Officially supported CPUs:
  • Up to Core 2 Duo E8xxx series
  • Core 2 Quad Q6xxx series (with BIOS update)

⚠️ TDP Caution: The Q6600's 105W TDP slightly exceeds the board's 95W limit. Many users have successfully used this CPU, but ensure excellent cooling and airflow.

✅ Step 2: BIOS Update Procedure

Preparation Steps:

1. Check Current BIOS Version
   • Press Windows + R
   • Type msinfo32
   • Check BIOS Version/Date
2. Download BIOS Update
   • Visit HP Support for s5150t CTO
   • Select Windows Vista 64-bit
   • Look for BIOS file (typically spXXXX.exe)
3. Create BIOS Recovery USB
   • Format USB drive as FAT32
   • Extract BIOS update using /extract
   • Copy .bin or .rom files to USB

Update Process:

• Run spXXXX.exe
• Follow on-screen prompts
• Complete BIOS update BEFORE CPU installation

✅ Step 3: CPU Upgrade Procedure

1. Power off system
2. Disconnect power
3. Open case
4. Remove existing CPU
5. Apply fresh thermal paste
6. Install Q6600
7. Boot and verify BIOS detection
8. Load default settings

🔄 Performance Enhancement Tips

• Upgrade to SSD
• Maximize RAM (typically 4GB-8GB)
• Thoroughly clean internal components
• Ensure adequate cooling

💡 Additional Considerations

Potential Challenges:

• Slight TDP mismatch
• Possible thermal management issues
• Limited future upgrade path

Recommended Mitigation:

• Use high-quality thermal paste
• Ensure excellent case ventilation
• Monitor CPU temperatures closely

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support 

[wla3389]

As you suggested, I’ve switched to an SSD and upgraded the RAM to 8GB.

I’m still deciding between the Core 2 Duo E8600 and a Core 2 Quad from the A6xxx series for the CPU.

But thanks to your detailed explanation, Max3Ai, I now feel much more confident, and I can clearly visualize the whole upgrade process.

Now I feel like I can take my time and upgrade at my own pace.

Once again, thank you so much for your kind and helpful advice.

[NonSequitur777]

@wla3389,

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

Please be informed that Intel released two versions of the Q6600, and the difference lies in the stepping -basically, a revision of the processor design during its production run. These two versions are:

---

🔹Q6600 (SL9UM – B3 Stepping)

• TDP: 105-watt

• Released: Early batches

• Stepping Code: B3

• Slightly hotter, slightly less efficient

TechPowerUp link:
🔗https://www.techpowerup.com/cpu-specs/core-2-quad-q6600-105w.c658

---

🔹Q6600 (SLACR – G0 Stepping)

• TDP: 95-watt

• Released: Later batches

• Stepping Code: G0

• Improved thermal and power efficiency

TechPowerUp link:
🔗https://www.techpowerup.com/cpu-specs/core-2-quad-q6600-95w.c403

---

How to Tell Which One You Have:

Look at the S-spec code -printed on the CPU heat spreader or visible through software like CPU-Z

• SL9UM → 105-watt (B3)

• SLACR → 95-watt (G0)

---

💡Why This Matters:

• The G0 stepping (95W) runs cooler.

• Some OEM systems (like Dell or HP) only support one stepping due to thermal limits.

---

Let me know if you'd like help identifying your chip or finding a cooler compatible with either version!

Unlike the Q6600 (which came in both B3 and G0 steppings), the Q6700 was released with just the G0 stepping, and therefore has a consistent TDP of 95-watt.

Meaning, as @Max3Aj mentioned, as the Core 2 Quad Q6600 is compatible with your PC, then the very best processor would be the Core 2 Quad Q6700 (exclusively with a 95-watt TDP).

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777