I’m building my first computer, it’s going to have an AMD Phenom II processor. How do I find out what motherboards, RAM etc are compatible with each other?
Is there a website I can go to and chose parts to see what parts are compatible?
The best way to go about this is to first pick the processor you want, find out which socket type it is. Search for a motherboard that supports that socket type, look at the specifications, determine it needs DDR3, select a memory module, go to the motherboard manufacturers site for a reference of recommended memory modules that are compatible with the board, select the ram, select a video card that takes advantage of the PCIE16x slot, select a power supply that supports all of the components, usually a 700W is enough for most builds unless running more than one top end video card. Pick a sata2 or 3 hard drive, depending on what the motherboard supports, select a dvd/bluray drive, determine whether or not to use onboard sound or to buy an add-on sound card. If you buy a sound card make sure it matches an available expansion slot on the motherboard.
How would it be pointless to buy a Phenom? I have the Phenom X6 1075t, the thing is fantastic, more than I could have hoped for. I love it.
People usually check to make sure ram is compatible with a motherboard…I’ve never done it, never had any issues with not double checking…so…yeah…That’s just my way of doing it though. It doesn’t hurt to be safe making your choices. I’m sure eventually I’ll buy some ram that doesn’t agree with my motherboard and I’ll go…..oooh shart….and from then on I’ll double check.