Will A Straight CPU Swap Require OS Reinstallation?

[geoffgale]

The CPU in my current work computer is slowly fading - one of the two cores experiences crippling DPC's under the load of video or applications that interact with the file system extensively.

I have a direct replacement for the CPU - same Intel part number - and I'm curious - am I going to have to re-install Windows Vista Business (32-bit) when I swap out the CPU? It seems to me that I shouldn't have to because I'm not changing anything that's going to require new or additional drivers. The CPU swap is the only change I'm making and the new CPU is exactly the same as the old CPU - except hopefully work on all 'cylinders' - :D

But I'd like to hear from a more experienced hand at this sort of change.

Cheerio - g.

 

[richc46]

Welcome
I think not, but why even worry
With Macrium Reflect you can make an image, and then use it to replace the corrupted OS, if necessary. I really do not think it will be necessary, however.
Imaging with free Macrium - Windows 7 Forums
Its free and it saved my butt, a couple of times
In conclusion things can and do go wrong, make that image.

 

[Patonb]

The few times I swapped cpu's it took it no problem.

 

[Cytherian]

The few times I swapped cpu's it took it no problem.

Likewise. There is a level of abstraction from the CPU, where the O/S won't know anything differently with a CPU swap. There might be an exception if there's a change in the number of cores when there is multi-threading based software installed that utilizes them (but that's very likely an uncommon exception).

After upgrading your CPU, it might be a good idea to refresh the CMOS with the latest manufacturer's BIOS for your computer. Be sure to read up on the notes for it before installing, though.

 

[Patonb]

I went from i7 quad to xeon Hex with no issues.