How do I test the new CPU+Motherboard before buying?

[xtemalisx]

Alright, little background story. So I have this crappy Acer x3950 with i5-650 and Radeon HD 5570. I decided to upgrade and got a new case (Sharkoon VS-4) and Corsair VS-450 and was planning on getting a new Graphics soon.

My plan was to move my OEM motherboard to the new chassie, little did I know that it wouldn't work. So I found this crazy cheap deal - AMD fx 4300 with motherboard (I know it's old but all I do is CS:GO and Ms word).

The problem is - how do I test it before buying it? I can bring the case, ram, PSU and HDD with me, but I believe windows wouldn't load since it's a completely new motherboard and CPU. Any ideas?

 

[MWP0004]

Just see if it will post and allow you to enter bios. No need to boot all the way into an OS.

 

[xtemalisx]

But how do I know that everything is fine with the motherboard? (Ports/controllers etc.) Is there something specific that I should look for in BIOS?
The motherboard is ASUS m5a78lm-lx3 by the way

 

[mbarnes86]

Hi

a bootable USB memory stick with Windows, Windows PE or Linux will enable a quick test of the motherboard, cpu, ram & PSU & (LCD) screen and keyboard & mouse (USB or PS/2)

Does this motherboard have integrated Graphics If not you also need a graphics card.

Does this include a CPU Heatsink Fan if not you also need one of these as well

This can all be done outside of the case

Or Maybe the seller still has the motherboard in a case to demonstrate this for you

regards
Mike Barnes