Stefan Mileschin

Some of you might have heard by now that we’re launching the AMD FX series of processors this quarter. And you’ve likely seen the lead-up announcements to that launch:

· We introduced the 9-series desktop chipsets at Computex,

· Unveiled the reincarnated AMD FX processor brand at E3 2011,

· More AMD FX fun at Comic Con 2011,

· And set a Guinness World Record last month.



There is a ton of excitement about the first ever 8-core desktop AMD FX CPU and here’s how to ensure that all you do-it-yourself PC builders have a smooth transition to the new processor:

1. Get the right motherboard: Make sure your PC sports a motherboard with an AMD 9-series chipset, which includes the all-new AM3+ socket that the AMD FX CPU requires. Remember, the AM3+ socket is backward compatible with AM3 AMD CPUs so you can install the motherboard now. The following device manufacturers offer 9-series motherboards: ASRock, ASUS, Biostar, ECS, GIGABYTE Technology, Jetway and MSI.

2. Ensure you have the latest BIOS: To make sure you have the latest BIOS, plug in an AMD AM3 socket CPU (AMD Sempron™, AMD Athlon™ II or AMD Phenom™ II processor), check your BIOS and verify that with the manufacturer’s website. If the BIOS versions match, you are good to go. Otherwise, prior to installing your AMD FX CPU download the most up-to-date motherboard BIOS directly from the motherboard manufacturer (Uncertain of how to do this? There’s a wealth of YouTube videos with easy to follow instructions). If you do not have an AMD AM3 socket CPU, contact your seller for instructions. Here’s a sampling of BIOS instructions from a few top motherboard manufacturers:

· GIGABYTE: http://www.gigabyte.us/products/prod...?pid=3880#bios

· MSI: http://www.msi.com/product/mb/990FXA...tml#/?div=BIOS

· ASRock: http://www.asrock.com/mb/download.as...xtreme4&o=BIOS

· ASUS: http://usa.asus.com/Motherboards/AMD..._EVO/#download

3. Pair AMD FX with a high-end AMD Radeon™ graphics card: To unleash the power of the AMD FX CPU when it launches, you’ll of course want an equally powerful graphics cards. AMD recommends matching the AMD FX CPU with an AMD Radeon™ HD 6850 graphics card or higher. As always, make sure you have the latest drivers – including AMD OverDrive™ software – installed to get the most of your system.*



Follow these steps to be sure your PC is fully equipped to experience the unlocked and unrestrained power of AMD FX when the CPU hits the market this quarter.

* AMD’s product warranty does not cover damages caused by overclocking, even when overclocking is achieved using AMD OverDrive™ software.