Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
SocketAM3+isamodifiedversionofAM3designedforthenew“Bulldozer”processors.
Ithas938pins,andalsosupportsprocessorsmadeforAM3sockets.
Table3.11
showsthe
essential differences between Socket AM2, AM2+, AM3, and AM3+.
Table 3.11 Socket AM2, AM2+, AM3, and AM3+ Features
Here is a summary of the compatibility between AM2, AM2+,AM3, and AM3+ pro-
cessors and motherboards:
• You cannot install Socket AM2 or AM2+ processors in Socket AM3 motherboards.
• You can install Socket AM2 processors in Socket AM2+ motherboards.
• You can install Socket AM3 or AM2+ processors in Socket AM2 motherboards;
however, the BIOS must support the processor, the FSB will run at lower HT 2.0
speeds, and only DDR2 memory is supported.
• You can install Socket AM3 processors in Socket AM2+ motherboards, but the BIOS
must support the processor, and only DDR2 memory is supported.
• You can install Socket AM3 processors in Socket AM3+ motherboards, but the BIOS
must support the processor.
