Replace a motherboard

gnfnrhead

My PC no longer works so was thinking about a new one when I got the idea that it would be cheaper to just replace the motherboard.

My question is, what do I need to find out to know if it will be compatible, or will any motherboard work? Does it have to be the same as what I'm taking out, or can it be completely different? Anything in particular that needs to be checked?

If it turns out to be easier and more worth while to just get the new PC I'll do that, but want to explore this option first.

Any help will be appreciated.

U_Fig

Well since everything is going to be connected in some what to the motherboard it has to be compatible with everything connected to it..

1) processor what socket 1156 ,1155 ,fm2 ect

2) what ram DDR2/3

3) Powersupply connection to motherboard

4) PCI Or PCIe slots for GPU

5) Sata or IDE

You'll need to see all the above it's not hard but if is old most likely you won't find a new own to replace it so look at adverts and stud for a second hand one

challengemaster

U_Fig wrote: »

Well since everything is going to be connected in some what to the motherboard it has to be compatible with everything connected to it..

1) processor what socket 1156 ,1155 ,fm2 ect

2) what ram DDR2/3

3) Powersupply connection to motherboard

4) PCI Or PCIe slots for GPU

5) Sata or IDE

You'll need to see all the above it's not hard but if is old most likely you won't find a new own to replace it so look at adverts and stud for a second hand one

You forgot one - orientation / size. ATX, BTX, mATX, IATX, EATX...

gnfnrhead

I'll open it up tomorrow and have a look for everything mentioned.

I'm not going to put too much effort into it as the motherboards I looked at cost between €100 and €150, the new PC is only €450. Not a huge saving to get a new everything.

Thanks for the tips

gnfnrhead

gnfnrhead wrote: »

I'll open it up tomorrow and have a look for everything mentioned.

I'm not going to put too much effort into it as the motherboards I looked at cost between €100 and €150, the new PC is only €450. Not a huge saving to get a new everything.

Thanks for the tips

Not to mention that if it's a brand name machine, e.g. Dell or HP, the motherboard may have a non-standard I/O backplate or front panel connections. So even if everything else fits and works, the case could hold you back.

U_Fig

challengemaster wrote: »

You forgot one - orientation / size. ATX, BTX, mATX, IATX, EATX...

i'm only human i do forget