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This time I have to build a new computer for my desk as the old one fried because I overclocked it too much (I told them that the processor was bad and have to buy/build a new system… Shhhhh). AMD says that it is their intention to make the FX series processors the ultimate desktop PC processor, therefore the jump to dual core technology. This dual core AMD Athlon 64 FX-60 processor replaces the last top of the line processor (the AMD Athlon 64 FX-57). AMD claims that this new processor is perfect for not only games, but for all multi-thread projects that would require a dual core processor. They will not discontinue the FX-57 but are planning to get rid of it in the future. This FX-60 by far is the best dual core processor available today; Intel does not even come close. Please refer to the How to purchase a processor guide for full details on what questions to ask yourself before purchasing a processor.


INSTALLATION :
Since this is also a 939 socket compatible processor, it is as easy to install as all previous 939 processors. If you have installed as many processors as me, you will be able to install these in a breeze. But AMD makes their processors easy to install anyways. If you are not sure about something or if it is just your first time installing these, just follow the instructions in the quick installation guide. If you the steps listed in the guide properly, you should have no problems what so ever. If you install the stock heatsink and fan, your job will be even simpler, but you will need to follow instructions for other heatsinks if you choose not to use the manufacturer supplied one.

Overclocking: I will let you in a little secret; this FX-60 is a very overclocking friendly processor. Even though, this is the fastest processor available from AMD I easily achieved an overclocked speed of about 2.8GHz; I did not have the cooling system to go any higher (I used the stock heatsink and fan for this overclock). I will certainly get better cooling on it and try to go higher as I feel it is capable enough to go way higher. I have read many articles that suggest this processor can be safely overclocked to 2.9GHz with better cooling. If you want to overclock your system, here are some tips you can use: you should lower the HT (HyperTransport) multiplier to 3x or 4x or the HT frequency to 1.1GHz or lower; the default HT multiplier is set to 5x; you may need to raise the vcore voltage to 1.5V or 1.55V; you will definitely need a very good cooling system; also use good thermal grease like Arctic Silver for optimal performance.

I always like to not recommend overclocking your processor if you use the stock heatsink and fan for cooling it, but in this case, I was able to overclock about 7 percent without it overheating or crashing. But I would still advice caution as it is a very expensive processor and I assume everyone would regret frying it. On the other hand, this processor is one of the fastest available, so you technically do not have to overclock it. I would highly recommend you use Arctic Silver thermal grease to install your heatsink because it transfers heat more efficiently to keep your processor running cooler at all times. You can purchase these from your local computer store or online for about five to eleven bucks a piece.

Suggesstions: Even with normal usage, your heatsink will/may accumulate dust and dirt, so the best thing to do to prevent it is to clean the inside of your computer every two to three months or so. Some months ago, I did not clean mine for over six months and the processor started running hotter than usual, but after I cleaned the headsink and the inside of my computer thoroughly, it was back to normal again. You can use the Falcon Dust Off duster to blow all the dirt and dust off; it will only cost you between four and nine dollars.

The First Boot: The first boot is always the trickiest one of all as anything can happen. So it is best to clear your CMOS/Bios settings to factory defaults to start out with a clean system; doing so will reduce the chances of crashes and conflicts once you start installing stuff. Also, some new systems will not work properly if you do not reset the settings. You may not have to do this if you are just replacing or upgrading your processor. You can always go back and change the settings to your needs once you have it working properly.

Installing the Operating System: You will then need to install your favorite operating system or if you already have an operating system installed, just boot up. One thing to keep in mind when booting up for the first few times, is to keep a close watch on the processor and memory (RAM) temperatures; especially if you used a different heatsink and even more if you overclocked the processor. I also suggest that you make sure the memory sticks you used are compatible and can overclock without problems. If your memory sticks are one of the cheaper one’s or are not compatible, you system may be unstable or will not boot at all.