Configuring the Microprocessor

The motherboard usually auto-detects the microprocessor. We can also configure the microprocessor by adjusting the jumper settings. Microprocessors can also be configured using the settings from the system Basic Input Output System (BIOS). The BIOS stores the system information.

Speed of the Microprocessor
The microprocessor is built and set to perform at the recommended speed. The recommended speed of the microprocessor is set below the maximum speed of the microprocessor. To modify the speed of the microprocessor using the system BIOS:

1. Start the system.

2. Press the Delete key on the keyboard to enter the BIOS setup.

3. Select CPU PnP from the displayed menu using the navigations keys specified besides the menu.

4. Press Enter to display CPU PnP setup screen that enables to modify the settings for the microprocessor.

5. Use the Page Up or Page Down key on the keyboard to select the required CPU Ratio. The CPU ratio is a multiplier that sets the microprocessor clock speed.

6. Press Esc to return to the BIOS main menu.

7. Press F10 to save and exit.

Overclocking

Overclocking the microprocessor increases the speed of the processor. You can overclock the microprocessor by changing the jumper settings on the motherboard. You can also overclock the microprocessor by increasing the CPU Ratio from the CPU PnP Setup Page from the BIOS settings. Additional cooling devices such as CPU fans must be installed to cool down the processor because overclocking makes the microprocessor heat up very fast. The extreme heat level can reduce the life of the processor and can also damage the processor. Overclocking must be implemented with care by increasing the clock speed little by little. You must also check the documentation of the microprocessor and the motherboard before overclocking. Overclocking a processor beyond its maximum capacity can permanently damage the microprocessor.

Upgrading and Troubleshooting Microprocessors

The speed and the performance of microprocessors increase with the release of new processor. Besides this, every microprocessor has its own limitation. To keep the system up-to-date and to remove the limitations of the microprocessor, we must upgrade the microprocessor. To upgrade a microprocessor, we replace the microprocessor in the system with a new compatible microprocessor.

Troubleshooting microprocessor techniques solve the problems that arise due to the improper functioning of the microprocessor. The general problems that arises from the microprocessor are overheating and slow processing.

Overheating

A microprocessor produces heat while processing the data. The microprocessor also overheats when it is performing beyond the recommended speed. Overheating can cause permanent damage to the microprocessor. Adequate cooling devices, such as a processor fan must be installed to cool down the microprocessor.To solve the problem of overheating :

1. Check that the processor fan is installed and functioning properly.

2. Check the jumper settings on the motherboard and the BIOS settings to see that the microprocessor is not overclocked.

3. Check that the voltage supplied by the motherboard is compatible with the microprocessor.

4. Check the motherboard manual to see that the motherboard supports the microprocessor.

Slow Processing

The microprocessor generally runs slow if there is some fault within it. A microprocessor can also run slow if the speed settings are not correct or due to some other fault in the system. To solve the problem of slow processing :

1. Check if the vendor has supplied the correct microprocessor.

2. Check if the microprocessor supports the applications that are running.

3. Scan the computer for viruses.

4. Check the jumper settings on the motherboard and the BIOS settings of the microprocessor.

5. Troubleshoot the RAM.