🛠️ AMD CPU Upgrade Guide

1. Handle BitLocker (IMPORTANT)

Changing CPU or firmware can trigger BitLocker recovery.

You have 2 options:

---

🔑 Option A — Back up BitLocker recovery key (faster)

• Go to: https://account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey
• Or in Windows:
  • Search “Manage BitLocker”
  • Click Back up your recovery key

✅ Recommended if you want a quick upgrade without waiting

---

🔓 Option B — Disable BitLocker (full decryption, safest)

Run in Administrator Command Prompt / PowerShell:

manage-bde -off C:

• Starts full decryption
• Check progress:

manage-bde -status C:

Wait until: Conversion Status: Fully Decrypted

🔒 Re-enable BitLocker after upgrade (if disabled)

manage-bde -on C:

Recommended: Back up your recovery key again after re-enabling

2. Check BIOS Compatibility

AM5 motherboards (B650, X670, etc.) may require BIOS updates for newer CPUs.

Steps:

1. Identify your motherboard model
2. Visit manufacturer website (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock)
3. Check:
   • CPU support list
   • Required BIOS version

⚠️ Important

• If CPU is not supported, update BIOS before installing new CPU

BIOS Update Tips

• Use built-in tools (EZ Flash, M-Flash, Q-Flash, etc.)
• Use a FAT32 USB drive
• Do NOT power off during update
• Use BIOS Flashback if available (no CPU required)

3. Upgrade CPU

Required Tools

• Thermal paste
• Isopropyl alcohol (90%+)
• Cloth or paper towel
• Screwdriver

Steps

1. Power off and unplug PSU
2. Hold power button (~10 sec) to discharge
3. Remove cooler (unscrew evenly, twist gently)
4. Clean old thermal paste (CPU + cooler)
5. Lift socket arm and remove old CPU
6. Align triangle and install new CPU (no force)
7. Apply thermal paste (pea-sized)
8. Reinstall cooler (tighten evenly)

4. First Boot

• Boot may take longer (memory training)
• System may restart multiple times

5. Post-Upgrade Checks

In BIOS

• Verify CPU is detected
• Check idle temps (~30–50°C typical) In OS
• Confirm CPU (Task Manager / lscpu)
• Install/update AMD chipset drivers
• Re-enable EXPO/XMP if needed

⚠️ Common Pitfalls

• BIOS not updated → system won’t POST
• Bent motherboard socket pins (AM5 = pins on motherboard)
• Uneven cooler mounting → high temps
• Forgot BitLocker → recovery lockout