Skip to learning content

Learning Center

4.1 Match the CPU to the job

Lesson

Practice lab

0 / 1solved

Saved on this device. Practice is ungraded.

Build and test

Plan an office PC replacement

An office needs a replacement PC platform but has no discrete graphics card. Select a CPU, motherboard, and cooler within $300, with integrated graphics and cooling that covers planning power. Follow the supplied support list: sockets must match, and firmware versions use integers 180/210. Cooler ratings are planning estimates, not measured performance.

Bundle price—
Planning cooling margin—

Change choices to compare results, then check the requirements.

  • Socket matches
  • Firmware meets CPU support entry
  • Integrated graphics present
  • Cooler covers planning power
  • Bundle at most $300
Lesson notes

Choose a CPU for the workload, budget, motherboard, cooler, and upgrade plan.

Common user stories

A basic school and office computer needs reliable everyday speed. A gaming PC needs strong per-core performance and a balanced graphics card. A workstation may need more cores and stronger cooling.

  • Office use: keep it responsive and affordable.
  • Gaming: balance CPU and GPU.
  • Creative work: think about sustained heavy loads.

Compatibility comes first

Before choosing a CPU, check socket, motherboard support, BIOS or UEFI support, cooler fit, memory generation, and whether integrated graphics are needed.