dell precision 690 multiple cpu upgrade questions

[PS3toPC]

So, im going to buy one x5355 quad core 2.6ghz xeon intel processor tonight probably for my precision 690 which has 2 5160 cpus and need to have answers for the following questions below:

1)whats better
2 intel xeon 5160 both in same pc
Or
1 intel xeon 5355

2)my precision has 2 cpu s running at once do I need 2 cpu s or can I just upgrade with 1 cpu

3)will the default heatsink working with the 5160 cpu also work with the 5355 (both cpu s have a 771 socket)

4)I saw this guy use some kinda cream when installing the heatsink, do I need that when I install?

Thank you if you need more info, just ask.

 

[nikoli707]

1. the two 5160's will be much faster than the single 5355. its still 4 real cores vs 4 real cores, but the 5160's are clocked higher. clock for two 5355's will but much faster than two 5160's

2. i have no clue, i would guess yes, you need both slots occupied, and by the same processor.

3. they are the same socket so i dont see any reason why, but i would double check. the cooler mounts to the motherboard anyways.

4. the "cream"(lol, sorry i had to laugh) is thermal grease. yes you need it. it makes sure the heatsink/cooler makes good contact with the cpu to draw away heat. you can look up on youtube how to properly apply thermal paste. no you cant scrape off the old stuff and put it on the new cpu.

i first check your motherboard model and see if it can support the x5355. it may need a bios update to do this. do you know the model of your motherboard? also if you are going with 2 5355's, your going to be drawing much more power/wattage than with the 2 5160's. i would double check your power supply to make sure it can handle it.

Why and what are you upgrading for?