How to Change the Computer Processor
Level of difficulty: Difficult
The computer processor chip is often described in various computing forums as the brain of the system because it is responsible for handling the computations and distributing the various tasks from the background without the user's knowledge. There are currently two main manufacturers of computer processor chips in the market, these are Intel Corporation and AMD. These two computer processor manufacturing giants have been responsible for the various technological innovations in the computer hardware industry which ultimately benefits the end user. Computer processor chips have been built with smaller designs but extremely high and faster computing capability with the newest release of quad core processors which means that four processors have been incorporated into a single chip architecture.
Materials Needed:- Internet connection
- Web browser
- Processor chip
- Antistatic wristband
- Screwdriver
Step 1
To change (upgrade) a computer processor, you must first know the type of motherboard that is installed in your machine. To do this, click on the Start button and select the Run option.
Step 2
In the window, type the command DXDIAG and click on the OK button. This will bring up the DirectX window where it will display the manufacturer of your motherboard and its model. Take note of these because you will need them later on.
Step 3
An alternative is to reboot your machine by clicking on the Start button and selecting the Shutdown option. Click on the Restart button.
Step 4
During the restart process, press the Pause key to freeze the display, take note of the motherboard manufacturer, model number, revision number, and the BIOS version. Press Enter to allow the machine to boot up completely.
Step 5
After the boot up process has finished, launch the Web browser. Navigate to the website of your motherboard manufacturer.
Step 6
Search for support on the specific model number of your motherboard. In some instances, the manufacturer may also require the BIOS version.
Step 7
Check the type of processor supported by your motherboard. Also take note of any new BIOS and driver releases, download them if any. You will need these updates later on.
Step 8
Purchase the correct type of processor based on the specifications provided by your motherboard manufacturer. If possible, buy the fastest processor that your motherboard can accommodate.
Step 9
Take your screwdriver and remove all screws that hold the CPU casing cover in place. Slowly remove the cover. Put on an antistatic wristband to prevent damage to external components.
Step 10
Unplug the computer from the wall socket. Disconnect all connections from the power supply to the motherboard.
Step 11
Slowly disengage the CPU fan from the motherboard. Usually, there is a locking mechanism that protects the computer processor. Be sure to unlock it before attempting to pull out the processor chip.
Step 12
After unlocking, slowly pull out the chip taking care not to touch the pins. Set it aside in a secure place. Remove the replacement processor from its packaging and slowly but securely set it into the processor plate.
Step 13
Lock the computer processor into place. Reinstall the CPU fan and plug in all connections from the Power Supply Unit to the motherboard. Plug the computer to the wall socket and power it up.
Step 14
Go into the BIOS settings and check if the new processor is correctly read by the BIOS, if not, follow your manufacturer's instructions on how to upgrade the motherboard BIOS. Otherwise, turn off the computer.