How to Upgrade a Laptop GHz
By Dianne Christensen-Herman
Upgrading a laptop computer's GHz or processor is no easy feat, and you should have some technical experience or knowledge of upgrading computers to try it. If done incorrectly, a computer can be destroyed. This can be done correctly if you take your time and learn as you can about your computer. Each laptop computer can be different and the upgrade may vary depending on the model.
Preparation
Determine if it is possible to upgrade your laptop's processor. Many laptop's have upgradeable processors, but some have integrated CPUs that cannot be upgraded. Refer to your computer's owner's manual if you are unsure.
Purchase a new processor from a computer parts dealer or online. Check the owner's manual to determine the fastest processor with which your computer is compatible.
Save any data on an external hard drive, disc or flash drive, to prevent losing that data if something goes wrong.
Create a diagram of the laptop components, so you know where they go when you reconstruct the computer. Lay the parts in the proper location according to the diagram.
Examine the manufacturer's laptop assembly guide prior to starting the upgrade. Touch something metal or wear an anti-static wrist strap to remove any static charge when working on a computer's internal parts.
Upgrade
Properly power off the laptop and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Remove the battery by loosening the screws that secure the cover with a screwdriver and slide out the battery. Take off the screw that secures the hard drive case on the side of the laptop with a screwdriver. Pull out the hard drive.
Flip over the laptop and remove the screws on the bottom that secure the keyboard. Turn the laptop right side up and lift the keyboard out. Unplug the cable that attaches the keyboard to the laptop's motherboard.
Remove the screws that secure the palm rest and keyboard bezel. Sometimes the screws are covered with rubber plugs. Pry them off with a flat head screwdriver. Lift the bezel and palm rest up.
Take off the heat sink fan. Remove the screws that attach the heat sink and lift it out. Loosen the screws that secures the processor and lift it out.
Install the new processor in the laptop computer. Check that it is aligned in the housing unit. Add a thin coat of thermal compound on the processor and attach the screws to secure it. Replace the heat sink and fan and plug in the fan.
Test the laptop's new processor. Attach the keyboard and motherboard temporarily while you test it. Plug in the laptop and reboot it. If the computer recognizes the new processor, then complete the reassembly process.
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