[Pandimensional]

I would like to upgrade the processor on my mom's computer. I bought the computer for her thinking it was at least a dual core processor, yet it turns out it is only a single core. It's pretty sluggish with multitasking.

eMachines EL1358
Current Processor: AMD Athlon II 170u 2.0Ghz

I seem to be getting varying info online while researching this computer. Is there a known site that is reliable for looking up this info? I suppose I could open it up too and see.

Also, if anyone has a suggestion for the best bet for under $100, I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

[leroys1000]

http://support.gateway.com/emachines...L1358sp2.shtml

[Pandimensional]

What socket does this chipset support? And where does one go to find this info?

[managed]

Run this on the PC it will show the Socket on the Cpu tab, 3rd line down next to 'Package' :- http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html

Your Cpu is described here :- http://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/K10/AM...0UEAK13GM.html
But it says it can be used in the AMD AM2+ and AM3 sockets so run Cpu-Z to make sure which socket the motherboard has.

[leroys1000]

The gateway support page shows CPU's they have actually used
in that board.
So it does support those with the bios it is running.

[Pandimensional]

Thank you for that great tool managed. It's a AM3 938. I know I'm safe going with any CPU on the manufactures list as leroy pointed out. The high end of that list is a Phenom triple-core processor. I may just go with that, yet if I were to choose another more powerful chip, say a quad core Phenom - is there a good chance that I might run into trouble?

[managed]

Originally Posted by leroys1000

The gateway support page shows CPU's they have actually used
in that board.
So it does support those with the bios it is running.

Yes indeed but can we assume they all use the same motherboard ?

The Cpu in there now has a TDP of only 20 Watts and the PSU is 220 Watts so it could struggle with a Cpu that needs more power and runs hotter.

Be nice to know what Motherboard it actually is, should be on the Mainboard tab of Cpu-Z so hopefully the OP will tell us.

EDIT : I only just saw your post #6 Pandimensional can you tell us what Cpu-Z shows on it's Mainboard tab ?

[Pandimensional]

[managed]

Hmm not much help really.

I'm going to wait to see if leroys1000 wants to comment.

[Pandimensional]

I've submitted the question to eMachines. We'll see what they say. I will report back.

[bhuffy]

Your motherboard supports Socket AM3. Any of these processors will be suitable for you. Click Here

[Pandimensional]

Originally Posted by bhuffy

Your motherboard supports Socket AM3. Any of these processors will be suitable for you. Click Here

That would be fantastic, yet what about the power rating? I'm showing only 20W (!?).

[bhuffy]

Any of those listed on that page should work fine for you. The TDP does not have much to do with what processors are supported or not. TDP=Thermal Design Power

[bhuffy]

How much RAM do you have in that build, I believe the default for that model is 2GB. I would suggest grabbing another stick if running sluggish.

[Pandimensional]

Okay great, thank you! Yes, I have 2GB on this system. It will be maxed out to 8GB.