Upgrade a Motherboard
Whether you need want to increase your computer's random access memory (RAM) to speed up performance or you need to make your system current by completely replacing the motherboard, a motherboard upgrade does take a little work but the returns are worth it.
Instructions
Opening the Case
1. Shut down your computer and disconnect all cables connected to it., Place the computer on a stable work surface--like a desk or a table.
2. Remove the supporting screws from the case--they'll be located around the edges of the back of the computer. Store the screws in a container for safekeeping.
3. Slide the side panels of the case's off of the frame and set them aside. Lay the computer on its side, with motherboard facing up.
Adding RAM
4. Locate the RAM slots on your motherboard. Press down on the locking tabs on the outside of an open slot
5. Insert the new RAM sticks into each slot--the two tabs on the sides of each slot will lock into place as the RAM locks in. The RAM will only fit into the slot one way--don't force it.
6. If there aren't any availble slots, remove the sticks of RAM with the lower capacity and replace them with higher capacity sticks. Place the old RAM sticks into the packaging of the new sticks to avoid damaging them.
Replacing the Motherboard
7. Disconnect the power supply from the board. Follow the thick braid of cables running from the power supply to ports on the motherboard--like the 24-pin primary port and the 4-pin CPU power port..
8. Follow the wide IDE cables or the small SATA cable running from the drives to the motherboard, and disconnect them from the motherboard.
9. Disconnect the "LED," "Reset Button" and "Power Button" cables running from the front of your case to ports on the motherboard. Disconnect the cables of any other components that are plugged into the motherboard. Sit the computer upright.
10. Remove the screws securing the back of motherboard to the frame, and set them aside for safekeeping. Slide the motherboad out of the case. Your board may be attached to a metal plate--unscrew the board from the plate.
11. Replace the old board with the new one and secure it with the screws. Reconnect all cables and replace the case.
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