M2N78-LA unsupported CPU but it's on the compatible list

[Putterill]

Hi, I was given an old Compaq PC (SR5702UK) with a M2N78-LA motherboard (Violet, this version I'm pretty sure https://support.hp.com/gb-en/document/c01635734) and a Sempron CPU.

The supported CPUs are shown as - 

Motherboard supports the following processor upgrades:

• AMD Athlon X2 (Bt)
• AMD Athlon 64 X2 up to 6000+ (W)
• AMD Phenom Triple-Core up to 8xxx (AM2+) (Toliman)
• AMD Phenom Quad-Core 9xxx series (AM2+) up to 9850 (Agena)

In an attempt to get a few more years life out of the PC I've managed to get hold of a 9850 but I get a message that the CPU is unsupported and the PC shuts down. I presume I need a BIOS update but I can't find one?

[Grzwacz · Accepted solution]

Hi

Your Compaq PC is no longer supported by HP. The product has been retired.

This means you will not be able to find a legitimate BIOS update for the motherboard.

The only thing I can see which could be causing the compatibility issue is some AMD 9850 processors require a 125 watt TDP.

The 9850 (Agena) requires a 95 watt TDP.

Check the replacement CPU SKU. Google it to see what TDP is required. A 125 watt TDP will probably not run on the HP Violet motherboard.

Tom

[Big_Dave]

@Putterill

Don't try a "Black" edition AMD processor as they have been known not to work in HP consumer PCs.

[Putterill]

You are absolutly correct, it's the Black Edition 125w part, I had no idea there were two versions. Thanks for your help.