Upgrade a PC From a Pentium 4
If you're running a Pentium 4 processor, you have to decide if you want to bring it all the way into the present or just one level up. For video editing or online gaming, you'll need a top-of-the-line processor and possibly a new motherboard. However, if you just want to get the most out of what you've got, a lower-end Core 2 Duo processor will give you the cheapest and most significant performance boost and may not require a motherboard upgrade.
Instructions
1. Determine if your motherboard is compatible with the Core 2 Duo. For this, it needs an LGA 775 socket. Some Pentium 4s run on the 775, as does the Core 2 Duo, making for a simple upgrade. The socket number should be in the manual or on the manufacturer's website by motherboard model number. You need a motherboard with a 775 socket to upgrade the processor. If you have a 775 socket, determine your motherboard's maximum external clock rate (in the manual or on the manufacturer's site). Purchase a Core 2 Duo compatible with your clock rate.
2. Turn off your computer and unplug it.
3. Touch a grounded piece of metal.
4. Remove your computer's side panel.
5. Disconnect the power supply from all other components, unscrew it from its housing and take it out.
6. Remove the heat sink (the fan above the CPU). Disconnect the heat sink cable from the motherboard. Loosen the clips on each of its legs with a flathead screwdriver and lift it out.
7. Detach the locking arm on the side of the CPU housing by pushing down and pulling it out and up. Lift the cover off and carefully remove the old CPU.
8. Insert the new CPU, being careful to avoid touching its contacts. A corner will be marked on both the CPU and the motherboard socket. Line these up and gently place your CPU in the socket, contacts facing down. Close the cover and fasten the locking arm.
9. Apply thermal paste. Skip this step if your CPU instructions explicitly recommend against it. Place a fingernail-sized dab on the CPU. Don't get paste on your motherboard. Gently press the flat side of a glass slide or credit card against the paste to spread it over the entire surface of the CPU.
10. Install the new heat sink. Gently insert the heat sink into the holes provided on the motherboard. Depress the clips on the legs of the heat sink. Make sure it's properly secured. Connect the heat sink to the fan connector on the motherboard. Make sure none of the cables can catch on your fans.
11. Reconnect and screw in your power supply.
12. Replace the side panel.
Tags: heat sink, your motherboard, clock rate, compatible with, From Pentium