if you were going to build a computer to encode video, and it was on a budget, what cpu would u get for 100 or less, 2mb L3 cache quad or 6mb L3 dual core? or a tri.. any advice...
I agree with what has already been said. I have a 550 unlocked into an x4 and overclocked to 3.8. It benches a lot higher than stock 955's and WAYYYY higher than any athlon.
I have absolutely no idea if this is true or not but i saw it on a techpower up forum today "All depends of serial number. Ive read somewhere that on 550BE the 3rd letter indicate if you can unlock or not. H indicate you cant and Z you can."
Mine unlocks and the 3rd letter is a Z.
In any case you can exchange/sell if the 550/555 doesn't unlock.
Originally Posted by smartasien
I have absolutely no idea if this is true or not but i saw it on a techpower up forum today "All depends of serial number. Ive read somewhere that on 550BE the 3rd letter indicate if you can unlock or not. H indicate you cant and Z you can."
Mine unlocks and the 3rd letter is a Z.
In any case you can exchange/sell if the 550/555 doesn't unlock.
That is not true at all. AMD isn't that stupid. A "Z" in the model number indicates an unlocked multiplier (AKA Black Edition CPU). A "X" would indicate the multiplier is locked. Below are two examples:
HDX550WFGMBOX
HDZ555WFGMBOX
The first one is a C3 Phenom II X2 550 (locked multiplier non-BE) and the second is a C3 Phenom II X2 555 Black Edition (unlocked multiplier). There is no way to guarantee it will unlock besides buying a used one known to unlock.
I too thought that was too good to be true. Bottom line, if you're ok with exchanging/selling the 550/555 if it doesn't unlock go for it. If not stick with one of those lower lvl quads.
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