Upgrade your CPU with another Intel processor.
The Pentium 4 2.53 GHz CPU is a computer processor manufactured by Intel for Socket 478 motherboards. It is an older CPU, with a single core and a single thread. It has a Level 2 cache of 512 KB and a Front Side Bus speed of 533 MHz. There are several Socket 478 processors available that offer higher performance than the Pentium 4 2.53 GHz. These include CPUs in the Pentium 4 Extreme Edition line, as well as others in the Pentium 4 line.
Instructions
Find Replacement CPU
1. Search for another Socket 478 Intel CPU. As this socket is several generations old, retailers don't sell new Socket 478 CPUs, and may not sell used ones depending on their business model. Search on local classified websites or at computer hardware stores that sell used components.
2. Compare the specifications of your Pentium 4 CPU with those you can find. Critical specifications you need to compare include the core clock speed, Front Side Bus speed and cache sizes.
3. Make sure your replacement Socket 478 CPU exceeds your current Pentium 4's specifications.
Install Replacement CPU
4. Turn off your computer and unplug all cables from it. Press the power button to get rid of any residual charge. Place the computer on a flat, clean work surface and remove the side panel.
5. Unplug the heat sink from the motherboard and remove it from the CPU.
6. Raise the arm latch beside the CPU. Remove the Pentium 4 CPU.
7. Insert your upgraded Socket 478 CPU into the socket. It will only fit in one way. Press the arm latch back down to lock the CPU into place.
8. Apply a small amount of thermal grease or thermal paste roughly the size of a grain of rice to the center of the new CPU.
9. Clip the heat sink back into place over the CPU. Plug the heat sink's fan into the motherboard.
10. Close your computer case. Return your computer to its original location. Plug all cables into their ports. Turn your computer on.
Tags: your computer, heat sink, Front Side, Front Side speed, into place