I'm really good at computers. Been a natural since i was a child. Broke so many computers I'm great at fixin em. But before i invest around 200 bucks in a good CPU, I wanna make sure it is as simple as i think it is. So is it simple? install driver pop out the CPU and put in the new one. Simply follow the instructions on the box. Or are there complicated details im not thinking of? Ive never fiddled with cpu changes or repairs so does it need a specific type i need to look at before i buy a new one and compare to make sure its compatible or will any chip fit in the square it rests in? THANKS IN ADVANCE. ur prolly saving me 200 bucks or saving me from procrastinating it any longer. BTW now that im here might as well ask. I have a hp dv2000 and the motherboard finally went out i believe any info i shud kno bout that before i buy another for it? lol thnx guysHow difficult is it to change a CPU on a pc?If you are going to invest in another cpu, you need to see what kind you have now, and make sure the new one has the same socket. And also, that your motherboard will support the new cpu.
Look at AMD processors on the AMD website, and you will see that there are many different sockets for just AMD alone. socket A, socket 754, 939, 940, AM2, AM2+, AM3. And Intel probably has as many different processors as AMD, if not more.
So, you cannot just pop in a CPU without doing some background research. Will it fit and work on your Mobo? Is your cpu Intel or AMD?
If you have a fairly good case, and you measure it and find out that another regular ATX mobo will fit, then you might consider buying a mobo CPU combo, and installing them, but then you would also probably need to get new memory, because chances are that the memory sticks would be different also.
As others have mentioned, installing a new CPU isn't really that difficult, just use precaution around the chips on the mobo, and other chips, to prevent them from shorting out by static electricity. That is why you need to ground yourself to the metal of the case.
Take off the old Fan and heatsink, sometimes they come off as a unit, sometimes not. Then, when you install the new CPU, assuming it fits and will work, you then put a tiny drop of Artic Silver or other good thermal paste, on top of the CPU and gently place the fan/heatsink on top of that, and pull it down with the lever. Not too much thermal paste. The objective is to make a conductive surface to conduct heat from the CPU to the heatsink. Too much thermal paste is bad as not enough.
I read somewhere, that the surface of the heatsink, although it looks smooth, has tiny scratches that are hardly visible, but these cracks prevent heat transfer, since they do not touch the CPU at those points. So a thin film of paste will fill the cracks, and that is all you need.How difficult is it to change a CPU on a pc?If you are so good at computers, you should know. If you don't, you overestimated yourself.
Yes it's that simple.How difficult is it to change a CPU on a pc?Its easier than pie once you know how to take off the Heatsink/fan. Here is the easiest ways i do it:
1.Make sure you have Silver Arctic Thermal Paste, Qtips, Screwdriver, and Rubbing Alcohol.
2.Ensure you are grounded to the Tower first. (just touch the metal casing ends with both hands)
3. Remove your Side panel and also the heatsink/fan with screwdriver. (may need to ground tool too)
4. Pull the lever that secures the CPU itself.
5. Clean the existing bottom of the HSF by using qtips and alcohol to wipe clean.
6. The new CPU only goes in 1 way so its hard to screw up.
7. Put a small dab of the paste.
8. Install the HSF properly and ensure its secure to motherboard.
9. your done!
