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CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)HardwareHard

A technician upgrades a desktop's CPU to a newer generation processor that physically fits the existing LGA1700 socket. After installation, the system fails to POST. What is the MOST likely cause of this issue?

  1. AThe power supply wattage is too high
  2. BThe RAM modules are the wrong type
  3. CThe motherboard's BIOS/UEFI needs a firmware update to support the new CPU
  4. DThe CPU cooler is incompatible with LGA1700
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. The motherboard's BIOS/UEFI needs a firmware update to support the new CPU

Even when a CPU physically fits a socket, the motherboard's chipset may require a BIOS/UEFI update to recognize newer-generation processors. Without this microcode update, the system may fail to POST despite correct physical installation.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Excess PSU wattage does not prevent POST; it simply provides more headroom.
  • B. Wrong RAM type usually causes no boot with beep codes, but socket compatibility with a new CPU generation is the classic scenario tested here.
  • D. Cooler incompatibility would cause thermal shutdown or physical mounting issues, not failure to POST immediately.

BIOS/CPU Compatibility

A CPU may physically fit a socket but still require a motherboard BIOS/UEFI update to be properly recognized, especially across CPU generations.

  • Always check motherboard QVL (Qualified Vendor List) before upgrading CPU
  • BIOS update may be needed before installing newer CPU
  • Same socket does not guarantee full compatibility

Memory trick: Socket fits ≠ system boots — check the BIOS first

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