Z420 CPU processer upgrade.

[Lalo_77]

My HPZ 420 motherboard  version 619557-001

I was told that this particular version of z420 boards will not work if you try putting in a V2 CPU processer, that only a V1 will work. Is that true ?

Thanks

[Brian1965]

Check the boot block date in the BIOS. If its 2011 you have a v1 motherboard, 2013 for the v2 motherboard.

Yes, the v1 motherboard will only work with v1 CPU's. The v2 motherboard will run with either v1 or v2 CPU's as listed in the HP Z420 quickspecs.

[Lalo_77]

Thanks for the quick accurate Response.

I do have a first gen  Z420 motherboard , now can can you please recommend some processers that would work with this type of motherboard, I will be doing light gaming nothing to extreme.

Any information would be appreciated.

[Brian1965]

What CPU and RAM (qty, speed + DIMM size) do you currently have installed?

I've had a look at the list of compatible CPU's in the HP Z420 quickspecs and their respective performance;

Based on your expected workload and needs (gaming), I would recommend you opt for either the E5-1650 or E5-1660 CPU. Both these CPU's score well in terms of both single-core and all-core speeds. I would also go for 32GB of 1600MHz RAM (4x 8GB or 8x4GB), although you should be able to game reasonably with even 16GB RAM. Whatever fits your budget.

The GPU is also very important for gaming. More VRAM allows higher screen resolutions and/or more detailed textures. If you have a quadro card installed, then you should switch it for a GTX or AMD gaming graphics card.