Upgrading a basic Z2 Mini G5 with 125W Motherboard

[logarythym]

I basically want to build a W-1290P/RTX 3000 version of the Z2 Mini G5 as deals present themselves, and I want to start by buying the cheapest G5 I can find and installing the 125W motherboard in it (L93098-601 with board number 6050A3153001-MB-A02). I believe the I/O configuration would work. Has anyone tried this or is there some reason it can't be done? The parts I would need to get afterward are the CPU, GPU, and coolers. Anything else?

[NonSequitur777 · Accepted solution]

@logarythym,

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

To support an Intel Xeon W-1290 (10-core, 80-watt TDP) or a 125-watt processor in your HP Z2 G5 Mini, you must upgrade to high-output cooling and power delivery components. Standard 65-watt configurations typically use aluminum heatsinks and lower-wattage adapters that will likely trigger system errors with an 80- or 125-watt CPU. 

1. High-Output Power Adapter:

An 80/125-watt configuration requires the 280-watt Smart Slim AC Adapter. This provides the necessary power overhead for high-TDP processors and optional discrete GPUs.

• HP Spare Part Number: M52952-001
• Alternate Part Numbers: M10146-001 / L00458-002, or 4J0P0AA#ABA
• Connector Type: 7.4mm x 5.0mm smart barrel with center pin

2. High-Performance CPU Heatsink & Fan:

The 80/125-watt CPUs require a specific thermal module, often featuring a copper core or base to handle higher heat density compared to the standard aluminum versions.

• HP Spare Part Number: L97181-001 or M10380-001
• Cooling Kit (Includes Fan): M10377-001 or M10375-001
• Replacement Fan Only: L97185-001 (often listed as M10375-001 in fan/heatsink combo kits)

3. GPU Heatsink (If Applicable) :

Because your 80-watt CPU upgrade also involves adding a powerful MXM RTX 3000 graphics card, you will need a specific GPU heatsink upgrade designed for that power class:

• 80-watt GPU Heatsink: M49285-001
• 40-watt GPU Heatsink: M36302-001

You can purchase the aforementioned part numbers online, such as via eBay.  The 80-watt GPU MXM Heatsink can be purchased here: SPS-HEATSINK MXM NV 80W Z2G5 Mini 125W - HP Genuine Replacement Spare Parts - M49285-001-HP.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777