Hey!

I want to upgrade my CPU from a Cyrix 6X86 233mhz, to a Cyrix M2 300MHZ.
I tried to install it but it didn't seem to work, and wondered if I needed to update my bios for it to be compatible.
Firstly, I'm not exactly sure about the mobo, it's a Amptron PM-8600, but Amptron make an A, B and C version and my mobo just says it's an PM8600.

My current bios version is an Award Modular v.4.51Pg.

is it necessary for me to update to get this new CPU to work, or can I just ride it out on my old one?

Some wise person please help me!! cheers!

Generally a BIOS upgrade will only allow the CPU to run at its optimal speed and to show the correct model of CPU, if when you install the CPU the PC dosnt boot, chances are the CPU is bad and upgrading the BIOS wont help. I say the CPU may be bad because as long as you have the correct voltage, running the CPU at the correct multiplier or even lower and the freqency will let the CPU run it will just run slower. Try setting it to lower values not voltage just the other 2, try the lowest multiplier/freqency first and work your way up, if none of them work chances are the CPU is blown. Try updating the BIOS it may work, but my guess is it wont.

Not to be confused with CMOS(the chip), you can find good definition of BIOS and what it does for your system almost anywhere on the net. Updating BIOS has some good benefits. Most updates are essential to unlock the hidden features of the Chipset. Some updates allow for the increase of shared video memory from 8M up to 32M. Some users update because they have nothing else to do(other than changing the BIOS date). The bottom line is, chipset has the command. It also has it's limitation. If your chipset will not support it, then there is no update in the world that can change any of the features. Don't be surprised when you notice that there is no change at all after successful BIOS updating.