Uprgading your processor can allow an old PC to get a couple more years of life, according to CompuPair. In the case of the Pentium 4, not only are there plentiful options within the P4 family but your computer may also be able to run a Core 2 Duo, the next level up. No matter which processor you choose, you must first consider that your options are limited to processors compatible with your motherboard.
Instructions
1. Figure out which processor socket your motherboard has. It is either socket 423, 478, or 775, according to CPU World. This information should be either on the manfacturer's website or in your owner's manual. Also consult these resources for your motherboard's maximum external clock rate. Note that you can only upgrade to a Core 2 Duo if you have socket 775.
2. Purchase a new processor compatible with your motherboard socket and clock rate. Shut down your computer and unplug it from the wall.
3. Unscrew and remove your computer's access panel. This is usually located on one side of your computer.
4. Put on your grounding strap by fixing one end to your wrist so that it touches your skin and the other end to a piece of metal inside your computer.
5. Locate your processor's fan. It is installed directly on your motherboard. Note that graphics cards sometimes have fans but these will be installed on the graphics card, not directly on the motherboard itself.
6. Unplug the fan wire from the motherboard. Examine the fan carefully. Different fans have different methods of removal. Some require you to remove screws. Most contain catches either on top, or at the base of the fan that you must unlatch in order to remove the fan.
7. Disengage the locking mechanism fixing the fan to the motherboard. Remove it and set it aside. This exposes the processor socket.
8. Release the processor sockets locking lever. This is an arm on the side of the processor that runs the length of the socket. On sockets 775 and 478, push down slightly on the lever the raise it. On socket 423 simply lift it up. On socket 775, lift the socket door and remove the processor. On 423 and 478, simply remove the processor.
9. Grip the new processor by its sides, avoiding contact with its pins. Look at its corners on the side with the pins. Find the corner with either the missing pins or an arrow. Align this corner with either the arrow or the missing holes in the socket and rest the processor inside the socket.
10. Close the processor door if you have one. Then push the locking lever to its full downward position.
11. Consult your new processor's manual for thermal paste instructions. Do not add thermal pace if it states not to. Otherwise, put a dab on the metal portion of the processor and spread it out evenly.
12. Install the fan that came with your new processor. Place the fan gently on top of the processor then screw in any screws and fasten any catches the fan requires. Plug the fan wire into the motherboard.
13. Replace the side panel.
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