I will try my best to get all of the most helpful information on this review, but I may still miss some information.  Please refer to the How to purchase a processor guide for full details on what questions to ask yourself before purchasing a processor.


INSTALLATION :
The installation was as easy as always when it comes to AMD processors. I purchased the Asus A8V Deluxe motherboard again to go with this processor since I already have a system that uses it and plus it is after all an Asus. The easy installation guide that is in the box comes in handy if you are doing this for the first time. The guide clearly guides you step-by-step on what to do to properly install you processor.

After installing the processor, you can either choose to install the stock heat sink (which is also perfectly good if you do not plan to overclock) or one of you favorites that will keep you processor cool and performing at its best. One tip I would like to give you if you are planning to install it yourself; use Arctic Silver thermal grease when installing the heatsink.

Now when you boot-up for the first time with this processor, you would probably have to clear your CMOS to make sure you start out with a clean system. Then just install your operating system or if you already have an operating system install, just boot up. One thing to keep in mind when booting for the first time is to keep an eye on the processor temperature (especially if you used a different heatsink and overclocked).

I knew that this motherboard requires certain memory sticks because of the problem I had the first time I installed on my own system (AMD Athlon 64 4000+). I did not want to have the same problem again.