A new motherboard can improve a computer's functionality.
Installing an Intel desktop motherboard can improve the speed of a computer or provide additional functionality, including more available ports or expansion slots. A new motherboard also allows the installation of a new series of processors, more RAM, and the latest peripherals--including SATA, USB 3.0, and PCI Express devices. Most computer cases that were built for Pentium II computers or newer, as of September 2010, will accept the very latest Intel motherboards, although other components should be upgraded at the same time, especially the RAM, CPU, and power supply.
Instructions
Remove the Existing Motherboard
1. Disconnect the power cable, keyboard, mouse, video, speakers, and any other cables that are attached to the computer. Remove the case cover and disconnect the power supply cables that lead to the motherboard.
2. Remove all adapter cards from the system. Disconnect the case connectors for the power switch, hard drive LED, speaker, USB header, power light, and any other wires running from the motherboard to the case. Remove the drives and power supply if they are in the way of removing the motherboard.
3. Remove every screw that is holding the motherboard down and gently pull up on the end of the motherboard that is furthest away from the back panel connectors. Pull the motherboard back panel connectors gently through the back panel face-plate, and remove the board from the system. Remove the RAM and CPU from the motherboard.
Install the Intel Desktop Motherboard
4. Locate the screw standoffs in the case and match them with the new motherboard. This ensures that they all line up correctly with the holes in the new motherboard and that there are enough standoffs--and no extras.
5. Replace the rear port face-plate with the new one which came with the new motherboard.
6. Handle the motherboard gently.
Gently insert the rear port section of the motherboard through the face-plate, being sure not to bend any of the metal guides that are designed to fit around the ports. Lower the motherboard onto the standoffs and insert screws into each hole. Tighten screws firmly, yet gently, to avoid causing damage to the new motherboard.
7. Connect the power-on connector; hard drive LED connector; speaker connector; USB header connector; power LED connector; and any other case connector cables to the motherboard.
8. Install the CPU, RAM, and all expansion cards back onto the motherboard. Connect the power supply cables to the motherboard. Replace the cover on the system. Connect the external devices and power cord, and boot the system.
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