Tips On Buying A New Computer

Buying a new computer can seem like a daunting task when faced with the wide variety of options available in stores and online. Taking the time to identify your needs before you begin shopping can help to make sure that you are able to find the right computer with ease.

Budget

What you will spend on your new computer depends on two factors: Whether you purchase a new, used, or refurbished machine, and the types of features that you want. Many stores sell refurbished machines that are factory-guaranteed and priced lower than new counterparts. Use caution when purchasing a used computer from an individual; otherwise, you many end up spending much more in repair and replacement-part costs than you bargained for .

Use

What will you be using your new computer for? Basic PCs designed for office work and Internet usage can be purchased for $500 and up. Apple computers are pricier, but have features that PCs do not. If you will use your new computer for gaming, you will want to purchase a machine with a higher quality graphics card and other features. People who plan to use their computer for downloading and storing large amounts of videos and photos, will want to purchase a computer with a large hard drive and plenty of memory.

Other Considerations

There are many different "extra" features that computer manufacturers add to their machines to make them more appealing to consumers. The color, shape, and software and/or accessories included with the computer that you purchase can all help to influence your purchasing decision. While extra features are nice, don't let yourself get distracted by bells and whistles. Remember your budget and the intended use of your new computer, and don't forget to ask the salespeople for help, guidance, and clarification if necessary.

Tags: your computer, features that, computer with, extra features, want purchase, What will, will want

Upgrade A Compaq Sr1 300nx

Time to crack open that case.

Upgrading a personal computer requires basic information about the motherboard and the components that are compatible with it. Any computer can be upgraded once you know this basic information. The Compaq Presario SR1300NX Desktop PC is a micro ATX form factor PC that supports an AMD socket A processor. According to Compaq's support site, the Compaq Presario SR1300NX sports an Asus A7V8X-LA motherboard.

Instructions

Making the Upgrade

1. Unplug the computer and disconnect all the cables, especially the power cables.

2. Unscrew the screws that are inserted in the left side of the back part of the case. These screws keep the side panel connected to the computer casing.

3. Remove the side panel to reveal the inner workings of the computer. Before touching any device inside, attach the antistatic wrist strap to your wrist and then attach the clip to any part of the inner metal casing.

4. Remove the CPU fan that is covering the current processor. Lift up the switch that secures the current processor to the motherboard. Gently lift the processor off the motherboard and place it in a safe place. Next, place the new CPU gently into the socket and lower the switch to secure the slot. Add a thin layer of thermal compound to the CPU and place the CPU fan back on top.

5. Upgrade the RAM by matching the RAM sticks to the DDR slots on the motherboard. This motherboard has two slots in which you can put unbuffered PC2700/2100 non-ECC DDR SDRAM memory.

6. Upgrade the storage by inserting a hard drive into any one of the storage containing bays found within the PC case. Then, connect the Molex 4-pin peripheral power supply plug into the hard drive to power it. If you're using a IDE hard drive, just connect the IDE cord to the hard drive. If you're using a SATA hard drive, connect the SATA cables to the hard drive.

7. Upgrade the graphics card by inserting the card into the AGP slot. The AGP slot is significantly smaller than the PCI slots and is made especially for graphics card. If you're using a PCI slot, just insert the graphics card gently into the PCI slot. Remember to remove the metal slot enclosure with a screwdriver and then screw the card into the computer casing.

Tags: hard drive, graphics card, basic information, card into, casing Remove

What Is A Chip Fan

Your computer needs a fan.

Every computer has certain basic parts inside, such as the motherboard, RAM, hard drive and one or more fans. Fans are on virtually every computer and are crucial to the computer's operation.

Types

Computers use three of the main types of fans: axial, centrifugal and crossflow. Axial fans are the most common in household computers and they're nearly always the type used for chip fans.

Purpose

Computers get hot while they run because of the electrical activity in them. Fans work to cool the heated components, such as computer chips and keep air circulating within a computer so the system does not crash and the hardware does not melt.

Location

A chip fan sits on, or just over, a processor in a computer, most commonly the central processing unit (CPU) and the graphics processing unit (GPU). The CPU and GPU are two of the most important and hardest-working parts of a computer, and consequently they get hot.

Significance

A chip fan is usually an axial fan, and it is in a computer to cool the processing units. Neither desktop nor laptop computers can function without a fan or a comparable cooling method.

Tags: processing unit

Meaning Of Computer Hardware

A computer's hardware consists of the physical components necessary to operate and interact with a computer. Since a computer's primary language is binary, devices are necessary to convert our input into that language. The binary code coming out of the computer must also be translated into something usable for the operator.

The CPU and Motherboard

The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the brains of the computer and the motherboard is the heart. The circuits on the motherboard control the flow of information from other devices to the CPU and back to the devices. To aid in this task, random access memory, or RAM, is integrated with the motherboard to temporarily store information that is being used.

Output Devices

Computers were invented to solve problems. Those answers would be useless if the operator had no way to see them or interpret them. Display terminals, or monitors, are the most common output devices. Printers are another output device that is common with current computer systems. While displays and printers let the operator see the data, speakers are used as an output device to let a user hear data from the computer as well.

Input Devices

A computer operator needs some way to put data into the computer. The keyboard and the mouse are the most common input devices, but other specialty devices are available. Microphones and web cams are input devices that are being used by more and more people to interact with others through their computers. Microphones are also used to help the visually disabled use computers more effectively. Some computer games also require a specific type of controller.

Storage

Every computer needs some kind of storage device to keep data and programs accessible. Hard drives are the most common storage device, but they have the disadvantage of being permanently mounted to the computer system. Portable storage devices are used to transfer stored data from one computer to another. Floppy disks were the early form of portable storage, but CD-ROMs and DVDs provide more data capacity than a floppy disk could. Flash drives are more portable and more difficult to damage than disks and are therefore one of the most preferred means of portable data storage.

Communications

As computer-based collaboration became more and more of a necessity, computers needed the ability to "talk" to each other. Modems were used to communicate with computers over long distances through the telephone lines and are still used by some people today. Newer modems are available to use digital signals through DSL or cable to communicate with other computers through the Internet. Wireless modems are available to transmit and receive data without the necessity of a phone line or cable.

Tags: most common, being used, communicate with, data from, data from computer, from computer, interact with

Unlock The Cpu On An Intel 9650

Your computer uses the central processing unit (CPU) to perform any calculations needed to run software, from word processors to computer games and everything in between. If your current Intel 9650 CPU isn't providing enough speed for your programs, or the CPU has stopped working properly, you may want to remove the component. Before removing the 9650 CPU, it must be unlocked from the Socket LGA 775 port on your computer's motherboard.

Instructions

1. Close any open programs and shut down your computer's operating system. Disconnect the power cable from the back of the computer's case. Unplug the monitor, keyboard and mouse cables, along with any USB devices attached to the computer's case.

2. Place the computer on a sturdy work surface and set the case over on its side. Loosen and remove the two Phillips case screws at the left side of the case's access panel. Push down the panel gently and slide it off your computer.

3. Find the plastic cooling fan and metal heat sink positioned near the center of the motherboard. The fan and heat sink are held in place directly over the Intel 9650 CPU. Pull down the clips holding the fan in place and disconnect the fan's motherboard cable.

4. Remove the fan and the metal heat sink from the Intel 9650 CPU. Pull up the plastic cover over the CPU. Pull out the metal pin at the bottom edge of the CPU.

5. Grab the top and bottom edges of the Intel 9650 CPU and pull it off the Socket LGA 775 motherboard port.

Tags: Intel 9650, heat sink, computer case, metal heat, metal heat sink, your computer

Upgrade 1 7 Celeron M To 2 0 Pentium 4

Upgrading your Celeron M processor to a Pentium 4 is a simple process.

Upgrading your 1.7 Celeron M to a 2.0 Pentium 4 processor is not a difficult task. While you may be intimidated by handling intricate computer hardware, the procedure is not difficult. The process may be possible to complete in about 15 minutes, depending on your comfort level with following technical procedures. Performing the procedure can save you money because you will not have to pay the labor of having it done by someone else.

Instructions

1. Unplug the power from the back of the computer. This is the thick, black cord that plugs into the back of the power supply of the computer.

2. Ground yourself by touching something metal. This will prevent static discharge, which can ruin the processor or other electronic components you come into contact with. You can also use a grounding strap that attaches to your wrist and to something metal. This will keep your grounded during the entire procedure.

3. Open the computer case. Your case will either be sealed with screws or a quick-release latch. If it uses a quick-release latch, you will not need any tools to open the case to expose the inside. Otherwise, use a screwdriver to remove the cover from the chassis.

4. Locate the processor. The processor will be toward the middle of the motherboard and will have a silver block attached to the top. This is called the heat sink.

5. Remove the heat sink from the top of the processor. It will be mounted to the top of the processor with a bracket that locks it in place there. Unlock the bracket from the side of the processor mount and remove the heat sink.

6. Remove the Celeron M processor from the motherboard. The processor will be attached to the motherboard with a latch that locks it into place. Lift the lever to unseat the processor from the motherboard, and then lift it from the motherboard.

7. Mount the Pentium 4 processor in the socket. The processor and the socket both have notches in one corner that will help you in lining up the processor correctly before seating the processor. Do not force the processor,r you can bend the pins on it. If it does not fit easily into the socket, check the alignment.

8. Lock the processor into place by pushing the lever down toward the motherboard.

9. Install the heat sink. Place the heat sink on top of the processor and use the bracket to lock it back into place.

10. Seal the case by reattaching the cover or lid back to the chassis.

11. Plug the power back into the back of the power supply of the computer.

Tags: heat sink, from motherboard, into place, processor will, back into

The Specifications For An Asus Motherboard A8n5x

Get the specifications for an Asus A8N5X motherboard.

The Asus A8N5X motherboard includes an AMD processor socket and an Nvidia chipset. The motherboard supports 10 USB ports, seven PCI expansion slots, and both standard and coaxial audio output cables.

Processor and Chipset

The Asus A8N5X motherboard's processor socket accepts AMD Athlon64, Athlon64 FX or Athlon64 X2 CPUs. The chipset is an Nvidia nForce4.

System Bus and Memory

The Asus A8N5X motherboard has a PCI system bus that runs at 2000/1600 megatransfers per second (MT/s)--a megatransfer is 1 million transfers. The motherboard can be configured with up to 4 gigabytes (GB) of DDR 400 RAM.

Other Features

The A8N5X has a 1-gigabit Ethernet port and a multi-language BIOS, and supports two UltraDMA hard drives.

It has an AI non-delay overclocking system with intelligent overclocking central processing unit, adjustable voltage and processor parameter recall.

Tags: A8N5X motherboard, Asus A8N5X, Asus A8N5X motherboard, Athlon64 Athlon64, processor socket

Update A Locked Bios

Update a Locked BIOS

A computer's Basic Input-Output System (BIOS) is software embedded on the motherboard that controls the hardware attached to the computer and saves specific user configuration information. BIOS components can be updated through a firmware upgrade known as "flashing." The BIOS should only be updated if you have new hardware that is incompatible with your current BIOS.

If the BIOS is locked, you can gain access by resetting the password.

Instructions

Update BIOS

1. Download the BIOS updater from the computer manufacturer's site. Not all BIOS updates are performed in the same manner, so it is very important to use the manufacturer's guidelines.

2. Run the downloaded BIOS Update installer or application. If the software prompts you for a floppy, use a formatted 1.44MB 3.5" floppy disk. When using a floppy, insert it into the drive and restart the system to boot from it.

Some update files contain an "autoexec.bat" file to automatically run the BIOS update. Others will just have the update software, the updated BIOS image, and possibly a text file containing directions. If the update does not start automatically and there are no directions, enter a command using the names of the two available files. For example, if there are two files named "A06_123.bin" and "awflash.exe," enter the command "awflash A06_123.bin." This will execute the update software and specify the A06_123.bin file to flash the BIOS.

3. Restart the computer to complete the update. Some BIOS updates will request your permission to power down while others will prompt you to power cycle the system yourself. If that is required, power down the PC by either pressing the power button or initiating the power off sequence from the operating system and flip the master power switch on the back of your PC to the off position. Wait a minute, then flip the master power switch back on and power up the PC.

4. Modify the BIOS settings to meet the criteria for your new hardware.

Unlock BIOS

5. Reset the password if your BIOS is locked and you do not know the password. Sometimes you can use a "backdoor password" -- one the manufacturer has set that will unlock the BIOS no matter what the user has set for the password. Here are some examples of backdoor manufacturer passwords -- but they will probably not be up to date, as manufacturers regularly change this information.

AMI Backdoor BIOS Passwords: A.M.I., AAAMMMIII, AMI?SW, AMI_SW, BIOS, CONDO, HEWITT RAND, LKWPETER, MI, PASSWORD

Award Backdoor BIOS Passwords: eight spaces, ALFAROME, ALLY, ALLy, aLLY, aLLy, aPAf, award, AWARD PW, AWARD SW, AWARD?SW, AWARD_PW, AWARD_SW, AWKWARD, awkward, BIOSTAR, CONCAT, CONDO, Condo, condo, d8on, djonet, HLT, J256, J262, j262, j322, j332, J64, KDD, LKWPETER, Lkwpeter, PINT, pint, SER, SKY_FOX, SYXZ, syxz, TTPTHA, ZAAAADA, ZAAADA, ZBAAACA, and ZJAAADC

Phoenix Backdoor BIOS Passwords: BIOS, CMOS, phoenix, PHOENIX

6. Reset the password using software. The software program will read the BIOS password from the CMOS memory. See links in Resources for software.

7. Reset the password by removing hardware. The CMOS memory is maintained by a small battery, which is attached to the motherboard. To delete the CMOS information, remove this battery for 30 seconds. This will delete the CMOS information and the BIOS password. After deleting the password, you will be able to access the BIOS settings.

Tags: Backdoor BIOS, Backdoor BIOS Passwords, BIOS Passwords, Reset password, BIOS locked

Why Should You Encrypt A Laptop

Perils of mobility

Given the proliferation of laptop and netbook computers, there is a growing problem with security. Unless the owners take proper precautionary measures, all the data that the computers contain can be accessed by a dedicated and computer-savvy thief. Corporate users also need to safeguard their company's data.

Securing your data

Everything these hard drives contain

With mobility comes the danger that precious data can be lost or stolen. Therefore people who use mobile devices should consider encryption packages for their hard drives.

Guarding against liability, too

How is your customer's data handled?

In cases in which data on a company or its customers is lost, there could be issues of liability. As a result, many large corporations now require that all mobile devices be encrypted so that no one can access the hard drive data without the proper password.

Preventing

You can begin by ordering the device with a preloaded encryption package, or you can search sites such as CNET.Com for reviews of encryption packages that suit your needs

Considerations

Support is key

For individual users, the most relevant question in choosing an encryption package is whether there is a good support team from the manufacturer. Sites such as CNET.Com are a good starting point, because they include comments from users.

In the case of corporate users, the firm's IT team usually searches for a program that meets the needs of its users.

Back to basics: Backups

Backups are very important in any situation

Finally, all users should remember that one of the most important ways to protect your data is to back it up regularly. Individuals can use offline backup sites such as Carbonite.Com and Mozy.Com, as well as backups such as CDs and thumb drives.

Tags: encryption package, encryption packages, hard drives, mobile devices, such CNET

Satatoide Pci Cards

IDE hard drives connect to the system through a 40-pin ribbon cable.

PCI cards allow you to add features or connect new devices to your computer. Some modern motherboards do not include a port for IDE hard drives; they only support SATA hard disk drives (HDD). A SATA-to-IDE PCI card will allow you to add an IDE port to your computer.

History

Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) was designed in 2003, 17 years after Western Digital created Parallel ATA (IDE). IDE reigned as the technological standard for almost two decades, but SATA overtook IDE due to its faster transfer speeds shortly after its release.

Requirements

IDE hard drives require a 40-pin ribbon cable and a four-pin peripheral power cable to communicate with a computer. The 40-pin cable connects to the rear of the hard drive and the IDE port on the motherboard. The four-pin peripheral power cable travels from the Power Supply Unit (PSU) and plugs into the proper connector on the back of the HDD.

Configuration

Connect two IDE devices to a SATA motherboard by installing a SATA-to-IDE PCI card in your computer. The PCI card installs into an expansion slot and the IDE devices connect to the IDE slot on the card.

Tags: hard drives, your computer, 40-pin ribbon, 40-pin ribbon cable, four-pin peripheral

Optiplex 390 Vs 380

The Dell OptiPlex 390 and the Dell OptiPlex 380 -- released in 2007 and 2009, respectively -- are desktop PCs from Dell's OptiPlex line of corporate-, education- and government-oriented computers. Both are mainly based on the Microsoft Windows operating system. Generally, the OptiPlex 390 is designed as the superior offering over the OptiPlex 380.

Processor, Chipset and System Memory

The Dell OptiPlex 390 uses a dual-core processor from Intel's low-end Celeron brand or midrange Pentium brand; or dual-core chip or quad-core chip from the low-end i3 and mid-range i5 division, respectively, of the premier Core brand. In addition to the dual-core Celeron and Pentium processors, the Dell OptiPlex 380's dual- and quad-core CPU choices come from the Core 2, which is the less-advanced, immediate predecessor of the Core i series. The chipsets are the Intel H61 Express and the Intel G41 Express in the 390 and the 380, respectively. Maximum system memory is 8 gigabytes on the 390 and 4GB on the 380.

Storage and Video/Graphics

The maximum hard disk drive capacity is measured at 1 terabyte on the Dell OptiPlex 390 and 500GB on the Dell OptiPlex 380. Regarding video and graphics capabilities, the most advanced option customers can get on the OptiPlex 390 is an AMD Radeon HD 6450, which offers 1GB of dedicated memory. The top-level option for the OptiPlex 380 is split between the AMD Radeon HD 3450 and the Nvidia GeForce 9300 GE, both of which provide 256 megabytes of memory.

Networking and Connectivity

Each Dell OptiPlex 390 and Dell OptiPlex 380 has a standard Ethernet connection -- Realtek brand for the former, Broadcom for the latter -- that provides up to 1 gigabit in data transfer speed. The external connectors include the Ethernet's RJ-45 jack, eight USB 2.0 ports, a Video Graphics Array connector for hooking up the computer monitor, and headphone and microphone jacks.

Models

Each Dell OptiPlex 390 and Dell OptiPlex 380 is available in three designs: the mini-tower, desktop and small form factor. The OptiPlex 390, however, is more compact than the OptiPlex 380. The 390's mini-tower, desktop and small form factor -- in terms of height, weight and depth -- have measurements of 14.2 by 6.9 by 16.4 inches, 14.2 by 4.0 by 16.1 inches and 11.4 by 3.7 by 12.3 inches, respectively. The weight of each design is 19.55 lbs., 16.67 lbs. and 12.57 lbs. The OptiPlex 380's three models have measurements of 16.1 by 7.4 by 17.0 inches, 15.7 by 4.5 by 13.9 inches and 12.4 by 3.7 by 13.4 inches, with the weight at 26.5 lbs., 19.8 lbs. and 15.4 lbs.

Tags: Dell OptiPlex, inches inches, Dell OptiPlex Dell, OptiPlex Dell, OptiPlex Dell OptiPlex, desktop small

Pro & Cons Of A Btx Motherboard

There are many things to consider before using a BTX motherboard.

The Balanced Technology Extended (BTX) motherboard is a computer motherboard design introduced by Intel in 2004 in order to combat the issues that ATX motherboards had at the time. The most important issue was that the processors kept raising the operating temperature, making cooling a very important part of motherboards. The BTX was designed to allow for better airflow inside computer cases. This would eventually lead to lower operating temperatures of the components

Form Factors

The types of motherboards are also called form factors. These depend on the tower size and format and are called either ATX or BTX. The form factor determines the shape of the motherboard and the position of slots such as CPU, PCI and so on. ATX has been a leading form factor for a number of years and it stood uncontested until BTX was introduced.

The Advantages of BTX Motherboards

The BTX form factors give motherboard developers options to create products that require fewer ventilation fans, are more quiet and, many say, stylish. The most important advantage of a BTX motherboard is the heat management which is superior to its ATX counterpart. The heat dispersion is managed easier due to the layout of the BTX boards which is called the in-line airflow. This means that all the important components that require some sort of heat dispersion are set out in a straight line. This makes ventilation easier and more efficient when compared to ATX motherboards.

The Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of the BTX motherboards is the slow adoption rate from developers. While BTX offers better cooling and placement solutions it also requires a new case and power source for its PCI Express slots. BTX motherboards do not fit inside ATX cases and vice versa. This makes the transition an expensive one and the adoption rate slow from PC users. Also, the main Intel competitor, AMD, has not released a response to the Intel BTX design which suggests AMD does not plan to support BTX cases for their products. Despite the fact that BTX has advantages over ATX, it looks like it will take a long time to BTX to become dominant.

Conclusion

From a purely theoretical standpoint the BTX form factor motherboards outperform and outclass the ATX. They offer better cooling solutions, excellent scaling and good layouts that allow manufacturers to create stylish designs. That being said, due to the introduction of lower heat emitting processors and the spread of ATX design it is likely BTX won't replace it for years to come. It is also likely that a design will emerge that will bridge the gap between the two motherboard designs making the transition easier, faster and cheaper.

Tags: form factor, adoption rate, better cooling, heat dispersion, most important, that require

The Effects Of Temperature On Laptop Computers

Laptops are vulnerable to extreme cold and hot temperatures.

Laptop computers allow for environment flexibility, meaning you could just as easily work on your next big presentation sitting in your backyard instead of at your desk. Like most electronics, however, laptops have trouble functioning properly in temperatures that are too hot or too cold; and in some cases, these extremes could cause damage. While it's easy to become too familiar and comfortable with a laptop, keep in mind that it's a delicate piece of complicated circuitry, and careful treatment will help ensure a long, well-functioning life.

Operational Failure

Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can compromise the operation of the laptop. Internal components can become brittle if left in temperatures below 35 degrees F for extended periods of time, and exposure to temperatures of 90 degrees or higher can result in short circuits on the various electronic boards, and even melt them in some cases. Attempting to run the laptop in either situation could lead to internal damage.

Condensation

The threat of condensation appears in either temperature extreme, as it appears when suddenly moving the laptop from one temperature extreme to the other. Moving your laptop from your cold car to the warmth of your home or office can create tiny droplets of water on your laptop's internal components, as can moving it from a cool, air conditioned room to a warm summer day outside. This condensation could kill your laptop's circuitry should you power on before it evaporates, or cause corrosion of internal components.

External Damage

Laptop monitors are LCD screens, which stand for liquid crystal diode. The "liquid" component in the monitor can freeze at low temperatures, causing the screen to crack. The outer casing of the laptop may become brittle if left in low temperatures for long periods, and a sudden knock may cause it to break. Extreme heat generally won't cause much external physical damage to a laptop, but the casing can become very hot to the touch.

Precautions

Never leave your laptop exposed to either extreme of temperature for extended periods of time, such as left in a car overnight or during a hot summer day. When moving from one temperature to another, allow your laptop time to adjust to the ambient temperature before attempting to power on. If your laptop develops a layer of frost due to colder temperatures, allow the machine to warm up completely before attempting to power on or even open the lid -- the hinges may have "flexed" or warped due to the cold and forcing the lid open can damage it.

Tags: your laptop, attempting power, become brittle, become brittle left, before attempting, before attempting power

Microsoft Office 07 Requirements

Microsoft Office 07 Requirements

Microsoft Office 2007 is distributed in many flavors. The required and recommended system requirements change in accordance to which distribution is installed. System requirements are the minimal components needed to install the software.

Compatibility

Microsoft Office 2007 will run on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Windows XP SP2, Windows Server 2003 SP1, Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista (All Editions), and will be compatible with Windows 7.

Basic Requirements

In order to install Microsoft Office 2007, the following requirements must be met: 500 MHZ processor or higher, 2 GB of free disk space, 256 MB of RAM or higher, CD or DVD ROM drive, and 1024x768 or Higher Resolution Monitor.

Recommended Requirements

In order to use certain features, such as Microsoft Word's automatic grammar and spell check, the system must have a 2 GHZ processor or higher and 1024 MB of RAM installed.

Warnings

The Send to OneNote 2007 printer driver, Internet Fax service and Groove Folder Synchronization do not work on 64-bit installations of Windows.

Where to Buy

A free trial of Microsoft Office is available from the Microsoft Web site. Additionally, Microsoft Office can be purchased from any major computer retailer.

Tags: Microsoft Office, Microsoft Office 2007, Office 2007, Microsoft Office Requirements, Office Requirements, processor higher

What To Look For When Buying A Computer Processor

Computer Processors

The computer processor is quite possibly one of the most important considerations when building a computer. The processor will dictate the overall speed and efficiency of the computer when performing every task from checking e-mail to rendering 3-D applications. Learning what to look for when buying a computer processor not only teaches you about what's important in a processor but also different aspects of compatibility and computer interoperability.

Compatibility

The first consideration when buying a new computer processor is compatibility. The initial compatibility that one must meet is that of the motherboard CPU socket. There are many types of CPU sockets. It is important you check your manufacturer's documentation to see what specific CPU socket is on your motherboard. The CPU socket will dictate what processors are available to you for use with your computer.

Another compatibility issue is that of the computer's main system memory or RAM. If you have selected a processor first, before your motherboard, you must ensure that you can find a motherboard with the correct socket and that any RAM you purchase is compatible with your specific processor.

Budget versus performance

While it is easy to simply buy the most expensive processor, assuming it is the most powerful on the market, and build a computer around it, it is not the most prudent course of action and can lead to hundreds of dollars being wasted. If you will only be using your computer for activities such as Internet surfing and e-mail, it would behoove you to look for budget processors, as these activities do not require much performance. Acceptable processors for these types of activity, as of 2009, would be the entry-level Core 2 Duo offerings from Intel or the AMD Phenom I. Both of these processors have price points under $200.

However, if you intend to run processor-intensive applications such as 3-D content creation or demanding video games, you may want to consider a more powerful processor such as the Intel Core i7 quad core. The entry-level processor in this family, the 920, costs approximately $280 and provides exceptional performance across all benchmarks. The flagship processor in this family, the 965 EE, costs approximately $1,000 and is currently the market's most powerful processor.

Product market history

Before purchasing a processor, or any electrical items for that matter, it is important that you perform a thorough investigation into the performance history of any selections you might make. There are several syndicated publications and online resources that review, benchmark and stress-test virtually every processor released by Intel and AMD. These in-depth reviews provide a wealth of information concerning the maximum performance and price point of any specific processor you may be considering. Important topics to concern yourself with when selecting a processor include: MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures), cooling requirements, power supply requirements, and benchmark results, both synthetic and actual.

Tags: computer processor, buying computer processor, costs approximately, family costs, family costs approximately

Motherboards That Support An Athlon Xp 2800 333fsb

A number of used motherboards support the Athlon FX 2800 with 333 Mhz FSB.

The Athon XP 2800 CPU with a front-side bus (FSB), the speed at which the processor talks to the rest of the computer, of 333 MHz, was created by AMD in 2002 and was part of the Athlon XP family designed specifically to work with Windows XP. The chip runs on a standard socket-A slot and any motherboard with a socket-A slot supports the chip. As of October 2010, no major manufacturer makes motherboards with a socket A. However, many such motherboards are available used or refurbished.

AN11 Stealth

The First International Computer AN11 Stealth motherboard features the 478-pin socket A that works with the Athlon XP 2800 chip. The motherboard features the Via KT266A chip set (the "brains" of the motherboard) and a 4x AGP slot for graphics. There are also five PCI slots, built-in audio and support for RAID (a system that allows you to create redundant drives for an extra layer of protection for your data). There is also space for up to three sticks of DDRAM.

Epox EP-8RA6+

This motherboard also features socket-A. It also has the nVidia nForce 2 Ultra 400 chip set. The motherboard offers support for RAID on PATA and SATA hard drives and offers a built-in firewall to prevent viruses from attacking your computer. The motherboard also features three slots of DIMM RAM chips and supports up to 3GB of RAM. There are four USB ports built into the board and an "IEEE 1394a Firewire" port. The motherboard also offers built-in 7.1-channel sound.

Abit KR7A-133RAID

This motherboard from Abit features the ability to overclock the FSB. (The standard speed is 333 MHz, but this motherboard allows you to run it faster to gain increased performance, though at the risk of shortening the life of the CPU.) The motherboard features the Via KT266A chip set and offers a 4x AGP graphics slot. It also has six PCI slots and supports RAID configurations for PATA drives. The board also features four USB 1.1 ports and four slots for DIMM RAM.

Tags: also features, Athlon 2800, motherboard also, motherboard features, 2800 with, AN11 Stealth, chip motherboard

Pentium Socket Types

Throughout the years, Intel has produced many varying Pentium socket types for its processing units. The advantage of consistently releasing new sockets is that it always meant an increase in processing speed. However, the disadvantage is that a new socket release would almost always require the purchase of a new motherboard and processor to support that particular Pentium socket type.

Socket 5

Socket 5 was the first socket introduced to support the mainstream second-generation Pentium processors, and was designed to support Intel Pentium processors in the range of 75 to 133 MHz, as as well as the Pentium OverDrive. Characteristics of a Socket 5 include 320 pins within 5 rows and a voltage of 3.3 volts.

Socket 6

Socket 6 was the last socket designed to support the 486 (pre-Pentium) standard of Intel processor, and was essentially a modified version of Socket 3. The Socket 6 has significantly fewer pins than the Socket 5, bearing only 4 rows of 235 and a voltage of 3.3 volts.

Socket 7

Socket 7 was originally created to support Intel Pentium processors in the range of 133 to 200 MHz, as well as Pentium MMX. Unlike most Intel sockets and slots of the past, Socket 7 is backwards-compatible with older Socket 5 processors. The primary Socket 7 feature was its ability to provide differing voltages to both the Input/Output Logic and the processor core, which performs reading and executing of instructions. This feature is known as dual plane voltage. Characteristics of a Socket 7 include 321 pins within 5 rows and a voltage of 2.5 to 3.3 volts.

Socket 8

Socket 8 was designed to support the Pentium Pro Processor. However, Intel made the decision to discontinue the Pentium Pro, resulting in minimal production of motherboards that support Socket 8. The Socket 8 has 5 rows of 387 pins, and a varying voltage of 3.1 or 3.3 volts.

Tags: Socket Socket, voltage volts, designed support, Pentium processors, rows voltage

Upgrade A Dell 2300'S Cpu

Upgrade a Dell 2300's CPU

The CPU is a small square-shaped device that is located on the motherboard. Upgrading the Central Processing Unit (CPU) on a computer will give the system a better brain, which allows for speedier information processing. On the Dell Dimension 2300, the upgrade is a simple procedure that doesn't require any items to be taken off the motherboard. You just open the computer and it's pretty much right in front of you. This is a 10-minute job for most people.

Instructions

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Disconnect the power cord and remove all the externally mounted devices.

3. Move the computer to a flat open space and turn it so that the back is facing you.

4. Locate the thumbscrew--a large screw at the top-right side of the back of the computer--and loosen it.

5. Locate the cover release lever at the bottom-right side of the back of the computer and hold it down. Pull the cover toward you and then take it off the computer.

6. Lay the computer down so you can easily work on it.

7. Touch an unpainted metal surface to discharge the static from your body. You can also wear a wrist grounding strap to eliminate static.

8. Lift the fan shroud to expose the heat-sink.

9. Press the latches on the heat-sink down to release them and then remove them.

10. Lift the heat-sink to expose the microprocessor.

11. Lift the release latch on the microprocessor and then lift the microprocessor straight off its connector.

12. Install the new microprocessor by aligning pin-1 with the pin-1 edge on the connector.

13. Assemble the computer by following the directions in reverse order.

Tags: Dell 2300, side back, Upgrade Dell, Upgrade Dell 2300

Specifications Of An Intel 945gtp Motherboard

The 945GTP uses the microATX form factor commonly used in mini tower cases.

The Intel 945GTP motherboard provides a variety of features designed to enhance the utility and security of systems using this board. Although the 945GTP does not support newer hardware architecture, it supports a modest level of processing capability. In addition to its standard configuration, the 945GTP has several optional configurations that encompass several subsystems, including on-board audio, IEEE 1394 interface, LAN interface, SATA interface RAID control and other miscellaneous devices.

Processing Stats

The Intel 945GTP is compatible with processors from the Pentium 4 family that are compatible with the LGA775 type socket. The motherboard supports a system bus at speeds including 533, 800 or 1066MHz. This motherboard supplies the user with four DDR2 dual-channel SDRAM sockets. These sockets accept DIMM modules in a 240-pin configuration rated at speeds of 400, 533 or 677MHz. It also supports a maximum of 4GB of system memory and uses an Intel 945G chipset processor to control the flow of data between subsystems on the board.

Video Capabilities

The Intel 945GTP motherboard provides users with an Intel GMA950 graphics controller built into the motherboard. It provides video output through a single VGA port. This device provides 24-bit video processing at 400MHz and uses between 64 and 224MB of system memory--depending on total system memory--for video processing. It has a maximum resolution of 2048 x 1536 with a 75Hz refresh rate but requires an advanced digital display card to use a flat panel monitor, digital CRT or HDTV. However, it is only capable of rendering full 3D graphics at a maximum resolution of 1600 x 1200 at 85Hz with 32-bit color depth.

Slots and Ports

The Intel 945GTP provides a variety of mounting slots for mounting hardware. It provides a single PCI Express x16 slot for mounting a video card, two regular PCI slots and one PCI Express x1 slot for additional PCI cards. It also provides a total of four SATA connectors and one parallel ATE IDE connector used to attach optical and hard drives to the motherboard. The 945GTP also has one floppy drive connector and provides a total of six USB ports, 2 front and 4 rear. This motherboard also includes rear-mounted analog and digital audio output ports a parallel port, serial port and two PS/2 connectors.

Tags: motherboard provides, 945GTP motherboard, 945GTP motherboard provides, compatible with, Express slot, Intel 945GTP

Overclock Setting For A Intel 2 6 Cpu

the Intel 2.6 CPU allows overclocking thereby improving speed and performance

Overclocking involves changing the settings of a computer system to allow much faster speeds without any hardware upgrades. Intel 2.6 CPUs that run on desktop computers can be overclocked using a setting in the BIOS.

Intel 2.6 CPU

The Intel 2.6 CPU runs at 2.6GHz. This however is not the limiting speed. It can be made to run at speeds higher than this depending on the multiplier on the motherboard.

Front-Side Bus Multiplier

The CPU speed is determined using the following formula: FSB x Multiplier = CPU Speed. The FSB stands for Front-Side Bus (FSB) Multiplier. By simply raising the FSB within the BIOS, the processor can be made to run at much higher speeds.

Limit

Since the 2.6GHz CPU is relatively new, it falls under the category of CPUs that can be double-pumped. This means that it is possible to double its speed if you have a motherboard that supports over-clocking up to double the speed of the installed CPU. However, it may result in system instability.

Tags: CPUs that, double speed, Front-Side Multiplier

What Is An Asus P5k E

The ASUS P5K-E motherboard comes in a standard version as well as in a version with built-in WiFi capabilities. According to ASUS' P5K-E webpage, the P5K-E motherboards are capable of enhancing memory speed up to 75 percent.

Wireless Capabilities

According to ASUS' P5K-E webpage, the P5K-E motherboard with wireless capabilities allows users to share a wireless Internet connection without requiring a wireless router. It utilizes a common 802.11g connection that runs at a data transfer rate of 54Mbps.

Support Capabilities

The P5K-E comes with 7 PCI expansion slots. PCI slots allow users to connect graphics cards, TVs, USB ports, and many other hardware devices. Along with PCI slots, the P5K-E also comes with 10 USB ports which allow users to connect keyboards, mice, webcams and other devices.

Other Features

The P5K-E comes with special, pure copper heat sinks that help to reduce overheating, according to ASUS' webpage. These allow the motherboard to run quietly without the need for a fan. The P5K-E also supports 7.1 surround sound as well as coaxial, optical and S/PDIF audio ports.

Tags: ASUS P5K-E, comes with, According ASUS, According ASUS P5K-E, allow users, allow users connect, ASUS P5K-E webpage

Memory Problems With An Intel Server Board

Troubleshooting memory problems with your motherboard is an easy task.

Memory problems in servers and other computers can be related to numerous software or hardware issues. Troubleshooting the memory problem is the first step to determining the best corrective option. Servers operate under higher memory demands than a typical computer, and usually require error-correcting code (ECC)-capable memory.

Memory Installation

Open the server case and verify the memory modules are inserted correctly into the slots. Consult the manual for the specific server motherboard being used to determine any bank matching or pair requirements for memory module installation. Some motherboards require memory modules be in specific orders or pairs for proper functionality.

Memory Testing

If the memory modules are correctly paired and installed, a memory test may be required. Run a diagnostic memory test program to check the memory modules for defects. If the system will not boot due to the memory problems, a memory test can be run from a bootable disc. Check any discs provided by the server manufacturer to find diagnostic tools.

Memory in Servers

ECC memory is a much more robust form of system memory. ECC is used in servers in high demand environments to mitigate operational errors. Check that ECC-enabled memory modules are installed in your server if they are required by the motherboard for proper operation. Some boards may not boot if ECC memory is required and not present.

Tags: memory modules, memory test, boot memory, Troubleshooting memory

Unlock The Motherboard Cables On A Laptop

Needle-nose pliers help to unlock stubborn laptop motherboard cables.

Unlocking the motherboard cables on a laptop is a matter of releasing the tiny plastic catch that holds the end of the cable in place. It can be challenging when the operation goes as planned and disastrous when something goes wrong. The cables are delicate, and there is always a danger of breaking the connector. There is never enough room to work freely and reassembly is difficult when the cables are removed correctly and impossible if they were just pulled out without releasing the catch first.

Instructions

Unlocking the Motherboard Ribbon Cable Connectors

1. Slide the tip of the flat blade screwdriver gently between the base of the plastic connector and the protruding top of the connector and twist the screwdriver slightly.

2. Move the screwdriver blade to the other side of the connector and twist the screwdriver slightly, prying that side of the connector up a tiny amount.

3. Repeat the inserting and twisting of the screwdriver to release the lock. The small lock will slide up less than a quarter inch, releasing the cable.

4. Reinstall the cable by sliding it fully into the connector and then pushing the small plastic locking clip back down around it and into place. Pay close attention to the proper orientation of the cable when removing it and whether it went in front of or behind the clip.

Unlocking the small power connectors on a laptop motherboard.

5. Place the needle-nose pliers at the junction where the cable meets the motherboard.

6. Slide the needle-nose pliers toward the cable until the pliers catch on the small protrusion at the top of the connector where the wires attach.

7. Apply slight pressure to the connector and pull the wire and connector out of the socket slowly and evenly.

8. Replace the cables by inserting them in the proper orientation and pushing with fingers or the needle-nose pliers if necessary.

Tags: connector twist, connector twist screwdriver, laptop motherboard, motherboard cables, needle-nose pliers, proper orientation

Msi K9a2 Platinum Won'T Boot After A Bios Flash

The MSI K9A2 Platinum motherboard supports up to 8 GB of DDR2 RAM, AMD Phenom, Athlon and Sempron processors, and SATA Revision 2.0. Upgrading, or flashing, the BIOS on a K9A2 Platinum can improve system stability and increase hardware compatibility. Turning off the system during a BIOS flash or upgrading to the wrong version can render the system unable to boot.

The AMI BIOS installed to the motherboard provides a backup solution in case the computer fails to power on after flashing the BIOS. You can use a floppy disk or USB drive to install the correct BIOS update to the MSI K9A2 and restore the system.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the MSI homepage (see Resources). Click "Downloads." One by one, select the following options from the drop-down menus: "Mainboard," "AMD Platform," "Socket AM2+ (AMD K9)," "AMD," "AMD 790FX" and "K9A2 Platinum."

2. Choose "BIOS" from the top menu. Select the latest BIOS update from the list. Select your region from the download sites.

3. Download the file to your desktop. Double-click the zip file to view its contents. Insert a floppy disk or USB flash drive into the computer.

4. Select the Windows "Start" button located on the bottom left of your desktop. Choose "Computer" from the menu.

5. Right-click the letter assigned to your USB flash drive or floppy disk drive. Choose "Format" from the options.

6. Select "FAT" as the file system. Click "Format." Drag and drop the contents of the zip file to the disk or drive.

7. Right-click the ROM file. Rename it to "AMIBOOT.ROM."

8. Insert the floppy disk or USB drive into the MSI K9A2 Platinum computer.

9. Press the "Power" button. Hold down "Ctrl" and "Home" to force the update. The system will automatically update to the BIOS on the disk and restore the system.

10. Remove the USB drive or floppy disk when the computer gives off four beeps. Restart the computer.

Tags: floppy disk, disk drive, K9A2 Platinum, floppy disk drive, BIOS update, drive floppy, drive floppy disk

The Difference In A Pentium D And Core Duo

Semiconductor manufacturer Intel Corp. released the Intel Pentium D in 2005 as a desktop processor complementing its then-flagship Pentium 4 brand. A year later, Core Duo came out as a laptop (or mobile) chip and among the first entries of Core, which would soon supplant the Pentium. Understandably, there are several notable differences between the Pentium D and Core Duo central processing units.

Core and Manufacture

Although the Pentium D and Core Duo are dual-core processors ---- meaning that they each have two cores, or processing units --- the former's cores are placed on two dies, while the latter's cores are placed on one die. Intel used the 65 nanometer lithographic node of semiconductor fabrication for all Core Duo chips. While the Pentium D chips use 65 nm as well, this refers to the post-2006 ones; the older ones use the 90nm instead. These factors contribute to the Pentium D chips being bigger than the Core Duo ones.

Speeds

The Intel Pentium D has a clock (or processing speed) range of 2.66GHz to 3.73GHz. This surpasses that of the Core Duo, which has a clock speed range of 1.06GHz to 2.33GHz. The Pentium D also has the upper hand in front-side bus speed, which is the rate at which the CPU connects with the motherboard for data transmission via the front-side bus interface. It offers three FSB choices of 533MHz, 800MHz and 1,066MHz, as opposed to the Core Duo, which only provides 533MHz and 667MHz.

Cache and Power

Each Pentium D and Core Duo has two caches, which are tiny storage units that the processor uses for high-speed access to data from the computer. While each Core Duo has a 2-MB Level 2 cache, which is the secondary memory bank, the Pentium D offers 2MB and 4MB choices. The Core Duo, however, is more energy efficient with a maximum power consumption range of 9 to 31 watts; the Pentium's range is 95 to 130W.

Technologies

The Intel Pentium D is a 64-bit processor, while the Intel Core Duo is a 32-bit processor. Thus, the Pentium D can handle data sizes twice the size of the Core Duo. However, the majority of Core Duo CPUs -- 10 out of 15 -- have Intel Virtualization Technology, which consolidate several computing environments in one single PC. By contrast, a little less than half of the Pentium D --- 7 out of 17 --- have the aforementioned feature.

Tags: Pentium Core, Core which, Intel Pentium, cores placed, Pentium chips, processing units

What Is Computer Battery Voltage

Miniature battery similar to those used in desktop computers.

One of the desktop computer's system-boot functions is to check the voltage of its internal battery. The ominous message "system battery voltage is low" can occur during this system-boot phase if the internal battery voltage is low.

Battery Purpose

The internal battery in your desktop computer provides power to the CMOS memory chip, which stores the time, date and configuration of your computer, including the peripherals. Without this information, the computer will not function properly.

Type and Location

Most desktop internal batteries are 3-volt lithium devices and are widely available. The battery is located on the motherboard. Always use the correct replacement part number when replacing the battery.

Installation

Installation is straightforward, but care should be taken because the battery sockets are often fragile; a broken battery socket becomes an expensive problem. Do not remove the old battery until you are ready to insert the new one. Minimize the time the computer is without a battery; your computer is at risk for loss of setup data when there is no battery.

Tags: internal battery, battery your, desktop computer, your computer

Rescue A Pc With A Corrupted Bios

The BIOS is responsible for starting up a PC and making sure it runs properly.

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a computer chip on the motherboard with one very important function: to provide the program that starts up a PC with all the necessary features to make it run properly. A corrupt BIOS can make a computer completely unusable. Fortunately, this is a rare occurrence, and there are a couple of options available for rescuing a corrupt BIOS.

Instructions

1. Consult the motherboard documentation to find out the manufacturer of the BIOS that has been corrupted. Then go to the manufacturer's website on any working PC to download an updated copy of the BIOS; go to the website's utilities or tools section for more information on downloading the latest BIOS revision and a flash utility. Next, insert a floppy disk and right-click on "Floppy Drive" in My Computer and choose "Format." Check "Create MS-DOS Boot Disk" and hit "Start." This is going to be your system recovery disk. Copy the BIOS revision and flash utility you just downloaded onto the system recovery disk.

2. Insert the recovery disk into the floppy drive of the PC with the corrupt BIOS. If the boot sector of the BIOS is okay, you can flash the BIOS using the recovery disk you just created in Step 1. Power up the PC; it should read Drive A, the floppy drive, before loading Windows, as long as the boot device has been configured in the standard order. The PC should boot into DOS, where you can continue to flash the BIOS.

3. Type "dir" in the DOS prompt. Then look for something that says "flash.exe" and "xxxx.bin" in the list of files. Type both file names into the DOS prompt with a space between them and press "Enter." The machine will begin the flashing process and then ask you to save the BIOS version. Press "Y" for yes; it's always a good idea to have a current version of the BIOS on hand. A status report at the end of the update verifies that the system is OK. If the boot sector is corrupt, however, and this procedure does not work, go to Step 4.

4. Order a new BIOS chip from the motherboard manufacturer. You can get all the information you need for ordering right from the motherboard documentation. Open the PC by removing four screws at the back of the machine while wearing an anti-static wristband. Slide off the cover and locate the BIOS chip on the motherboard. Consult your documentation if you need assistance finding the BIOS chip.

After you find the chip, power up the PC to perform a hot swap (also known as "hot flashing"), which means switching out a computer component while the power is on. The process is safe as long as the heavily shielded BIOS removal tool is used. The BIOS removal tool is a large, heavily insulated set of tweezers. If you are unsure, consult a professional for help with this step.

5. Remove the old corrupted BIOS chip from the motherboard using the BIOS removal tool. Insert the BIOS chip in its place. Shut down the PC and restart again as normal.

Tags: BIOS chip, recovery disk, BIOS removal, BIOS removal tool, corrupt BIOS, from motherboard

Pentium Dual Core T3200 Vs Core 2 Duo T5800

The Pentium Dual Core (Mobile) T3200 and Core 2 Duo (Mobile) T5800 are both Intel-made CPUs (computer processing units) that are used in mobile computers. The T3200 is from the Intel Pentium Dual-Core Mobile family, while the T5800 is from the Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile family.

History

Intel released the Pentium Dual Core Mobile T3200 in the fourth quarter of 2008, while the Core 2 Duo Mobile T5800 was released in the first quarter of 2008.

Comparison

The T3200 and T5800 share identical processing speeds, with maximum speeds of 2000 MHz. The T5800 has a slight advantage in FSB (front-side bus) speed, with a speed of 800 MHz, compared to the T3200's 667 MHz capability. Both processors utilize the same socket type, Socket P. They also have identical package dimensions: 1.38" x 1.38" (3.5 cm x 3.5 cm). The T5800 has a L2 cache size of 2 megabytes (shared), 1 megabyte larger than the T3200. Each processor has different clock multipliers, with the T5800 having a clock multiplier of 10, and the T3200 having a clock multiplier of 12. Both processors utilize dual-core technology (2 cores on a single die), as indicated by their names.

Fun Fact

The T3200 is one of 18 unique processors in the Pentium Dual Core family. The T5800 is part of a much larger family. It is one of over 100 different processors in the Core 2 Duo Mobile family.

Tags: Core Mobile, Dual Core, Pentium Dual, Pentium Dual Core, Mobile family

Pcb Grounding Techniques

Proper grounding of PCBs is absolutely necessary to avoid unwanted flow of currents.

All electronic devices, such as televisions and telephones, have one or more Printed Circuit Boards or PCBs. A typical PCB contains a large number of electronic components connected together through traces on the board. To operate the circuit, some power supply provides the voltage. For the circuit to function properly, the ground of all the components on the board should be equal to the ground of that power supply.

Ground Plane

A ground plane is a piece of copper on the board covering a large area. It is a good practice to cover all places on the board that do not contain a component or a trace with the ground plane. A trace is a thin piece of copper on the board that connects two components together. It acts like a copper wire. Generally the ground plane is made on both sides of the board, but the component side plane is sometimes kept at the supply voltage while the plane on the other side is grounded. The ground plane should be connected to all the ground pins of components and connectors. This helps keep the ground voltage at the same level throughout the board.

Ground Plane Vias

If both sides of the board have ground planes, they should be connected together through vias at a large number of points on the board. A via is a hole through the board that connects both sides. If the original PCB layout does not contain vias, use a small drill machine to drill multiple holes. Small copper wires can then be passed through these holes and soldered on both sides to make connections.

Connector Grounds

All connectors on the board must be connected to the PCB ground. A good practice is to use more than one connector pin for ground. A common mistake is to assume that one connector pin is enough, but this may cause impedance mismatch issues leading to signal oscillations. Impedance refers to electrical resistance --- when two conductors are connected together, their impedance should match. If there is a mismatch, the current flowing through the conductor may bounce back and forth, causing oscillations. These oscillations can affect the performance of the system. For example, when the signal is supposed to stay at a constant level but instead goes up and down or oscillates, the circuit will not work as intended.

Decoupling

All PCBs contain one or more integrated circuit chips. Each of these chips requires power to operate. The supply and ground pins are provided on these chips to connect them with external power. The ground pin of the chip should be connected directly to the ground plane. A decoupling capacitor should be installed between the supply pin and the ground plane. The purpose of this decoupling capacitor is to smooth out oscillations in the voltage going into the chip. The other end of the decoupling capacitor should be directly connected to the ground plane.

Tags: ground plane, both sides, board that, connected ground, connected together

Msi K9n6pgm2 V Motherboard Specifications

The MSI K9N6PGM2-V motherboard uses the AM2 socket for AMD Athlon 64/Athlon 64X2 CPUs and the AM2+ socket for AMD Phenom CPUs. It features a variety of expansion slots and can handle both SATA and IDE devices. The board is no longer in production but MSI still provides occasional updates for some component drivers.

Processor and Chipset

The MSI K9N6PGM2-V motherboard uses the AM2+/AM2 socket, which supports several processors including the AM2+ Athlon, AM2+ Phenom Agena, AM2+ Phenom Toliman, Athlon 64 Brisbane, Sempron Brisbane, Athlon 64 Lima, Athlon 64 Sparta, Sempron Lima, Opteron, Athlon 64x2 Windsor, Athlon 64 Orleans and Sempron Manila. The front side bus operates at up to 2000MT/s for AM2+ CPUs and 2000/1600MT/s for AM2 CPUs. The size of the L2 cache will vary depending on the specific processor. The chipset is the NVIDIA MCP61.

Expansion

The MSI K9N6PGM2-V offers a wide range of expansion possibilities. There is one PCI-Ex16 slot and one PCI-Ex1 slot in addition to two PCI slots. The board can support two SATA II devices such as hard drives and optical drives. There is also one IDE connector/controller that operates in Ultra DMA 66/100/133 modes for connecting an older hard drive or optical drive. This allows for two IDE devices when used in the master/slave mode. There is also a connector for one 3.5 inch floppy disk.

Ports and Connectors

The motherboard's back panel provides connections for a PS/2 keyboard, a PS/2 mouse, four USB 2.0 ports, a parallel port, a serial connector, a VGA video out connector and one RJ-45 LAN jack. There are also jacks for audio line-in, microphone-in, subwoofer-out, front speaker-out, side speaker-out and rear speaker-out. This six-in-one audio jack setup allows you to easily connect a surround sound system to the computer.

RAM, BIOS and Audio Controller

The motherboard has two DDR2, 1.8 volt, 240-pin DIMM memory slots that can each handle a DDR2 533/667/800 memory module of up to 2GB for a total possible RAM configuration of 4GB. The board uses the AMI BIOS and the final BIOS update provided on the MSA website is version 9.9, released in December, 2009. For integrated audio the motherboard uses the Realtek ALC861/883/888 controller, which can provide eight channel audio through the board's six-in-one audio jack panel.

Tags: motherboard uses, There also, also connector, audio jack, K9N6PGM2-V motherboard, K9N6PGM2-V motherboard uses

Test The Isa Slot On A Motherboard

ISA ports are located on the system board.

The industry standard architecture, or ISA, port on a motherboard allows the connection of peripherals such as sound cards, video cards or IDE controller cards. It is found in 8-bit, 16-bit or 32-bit versions. As of 2010, the ISA port is rarely found on motherboards. Its replacements include the peripheral component interconnect, or PCI, port, universal serial bus, or USB, port or advanced graphics port, or AGP, interface. Testing an ISA port is a simple process of trial and error.

Instructions

1. Follow the computer's documentation to open the case. Most of the time this involves taking out screws or pressing tabs to release a panel.

2. Locate the ISA port that you wish to test. The ISA port is black with a spacer roughly one-third of the way into the port.

3. Unplug any card that is currently in the slot. You may need to release a tab or a screw to remove the card. Pull straight up and the card will slide out of the slot.

4. Plug the known good ISA card into the slot. Secure the card to the case with a screw or other appropriate method.

5. Close the case. Do not reinsert screws as the case will need to be reopened.

6. Turn on the computer. Allow the system to boot into Windows.

7. Follow the on-screen directions to "Install New Hardware." You will need a driver to install the device correctly. The driver is distributed with the card at retail or is found on the Internet. If the device installs correctly and works then the ISA port is functional. If the computer does not detect the known good card or the device fails to operate, the ISA port is nonfunctional.

8. Turn off the computer. Open the case back up and remove the test card.

9. Close the case. Reinsert the screws.

Tags: Close case, good card, known good, known good card, Turn computer

Update Bios On A Jetway Motherboard

To correct problems with a Jetway motherboard, update the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). As problems are discovered, Jetway releases BIOS updates to help correct the issues. Updating the BIOS helps solve problems with graphics and video cards, processors, hard drives, power supplies and other hardware. If you change a computer's hardware or even upgrade the operating system, perform a Jetway motherboard BIOS update to keep the system running smoothly.

Instructions

1. Visit the Jetway Download Center.

2. Choose "Motherboards" from the Categories list box.

3. Choose the Jetway motherboard's socket name from the Socket Name list box. If you do not know the socket name, restart the computer and enter the BIOS. The socket name is listed in the first page of the system's BIOS. The key to enter the BIOS is listed on the first page during the boot process.

4. Select the product from the product list.

5. Press "Go."

6. Select the "BIOS" tab. If the tab does not appear, no BIOS updates are available.

7. Press the download button to download the Jetway BIOS update.

8. Right-click the BIOS file and choose "Extract All" to unzip the file.

9. Open the extracted folder and its subfolder.

10. Double-click the executable BIOS file to start the update process.

11. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish updating the Jetway motherboard BIOS.

Tags: Jetway motherboard, BIOS file, BIOS updates, enter BIOS, first page, Jetway motherboard BIOS, listed first

Specs On The Msi Kt4 Ultra

The MSI KT4 Ultra is an AMD-based motherboard that is no longer manufactured.

The MSI KT4 Ultra is a computer motherboard that was designed for PCs using AMD processors. While it can be used with various operating systems, the KT4 is specifically certified for Windows XP.

Various Models

This MSI motherboard was made in four versions. The KT4 Ultra is the "pure" version. The KT4 Ultra-B has Bluetooth capabilities. The KT4 Ultra-BTR adds Serial ATA Raid (hard drive control) ability and Bluetooth capability. And the KT4 Ultra-FISR has all of the previous capabilities plus IEEE 1394 (FireWire) connectivity and Gigabyte Ethernet LAN (network).

CPU Support

The MSI KT4 Ultra has a Socket A (Socket 462) for AMD Athlon XP processors. All versions of the KT4 have the same socket and support the same AMD processors.

Other Specifications

This motherboard supports DDR333 and DDR400 random access memory (RAM). The KT4 Ultra has an 8x AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) slot for the graphics card. It's worth noting that newer graphics cards require a PCI Express slot. Since AGP is old technology, finding graphics cards for this motherboard could be challenging.

Tags: graphics cards, motherboard that, This motherboard

Tutorial For Electrical Components

Colored bands on a resistor denote the amount of resistance.

Every electrical circuit from a basic calculator to a new computer requires a few basic electrical components. Electrical components such as resistors and LEDs serve the same purpose no matter what type of circuit they occur in. Each component has different properties depending on whether they occur in series or in parallel in a circuit

Significance

Electrical components each have a role to play in an electrical circuit. You can find the same components in computers or in other consumer electronics. Each electrical component has a symbol used when drawing a circuit diagram. For example, the symbol for a diode or LED consists of a triangle pointing to the right directly followed by a vertical line. Electrical components manipulate the flow of electricity in a circuit; some components resist electricity while others store it.

Types

Resistors cause the flow of electricity through the circuit to slow. They prevent other components, such as LEDs, from an overload of electrical current. Capacitors store electrical current when the current flows in one direction, then release the stored charge when the current flows the other way. LEDs, or light emitting diodes, use a blocked current to generate light using only a little power. An inductor uses a coil to store magnetic energy and opposes changes in current in the circuit.

Units

Even in the United States, units used to describe electrical components generally use metric units and divisions. Prefixes such as "tera," "kilo" and "micro" represent the value of a unit as one trillion, one thousand and one divided by one million respectively. Units for specific electrical properties include "ohms" for resistance, "farads" for capacitance, "amps" for current, "volts" for voltage and "henrys" for inductance. Electrical components usually have a marking specifying how many units the component can handle.

Identification

Each resistor has a marking with a series of four colored bands that denote the total resistance of the component in ohms. The first and second stripe give the first and second digit while the third stripe represents the number of zeros. Each digit corresponds to a different color. The fourth stripe tells the precision of the resistor. Other components such as capacitors and diodes have a white marking with the units relevant to the piece either on the piece itself or on the circuit board.

Materials

Resistors come in several materials: carbon composition, metal film, carbon film and wirewound. Carbon composition resistors create more noise, while carbon film resistors use less power. Wirewound resistors can provide inductance. Capacitors come in a wide range of materials, each coated with a thin layer of metal. Possibilities include polyester, silvered mica, ceramic, mylar, polypropylene and electrolytic capacitors. Inductors use steel or powdered iron cores covered in thin sheets of steel to store current without losses.

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What Are The Most Important Parts Of A Computer

What Are the Most Important Parts of a Computer?

Computers are made of many different parts. Some parts are essential for the computer to run and some are not. For example, a complete computer without a floppy drive will function properly, except that it will not be able to read floppy disks.

Processor

The processor performs all the computations on your computer. Whenever you open a program, the information is sent to the processor to be processed into usable data. The processor is commonly referred to as the "brain" of a computer.

Motherboard

The motherboard connects all the parts in a computer: the hard drives, optical drives, processor and memory. The motherboard gathers all the information sent by the parts in the computer and processes it in the southbridge, which is a part of the motherboard.

Memory

The memory in a computer helps process data. However, memory is not the main processor and only aids the processor when there are many programs or very demanding programs running on the computer.

Hard Drive

The hard drives store the operating system that you use to operate your computer. For example, Windows or Apple operating systems are stored on a hard drive.

Power Supply

The power supply converts the power coming from the power outlet to the parts in the computer. A power supply has many cables that are all connected to the important parts in a computer, including the motherboard and hard drive. Note that the processor and memory are already connected to the motherboard so they do not need their own power connections.

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Mini Vs Micro Usb

Mini USB and micro USB are miniature versions of standard USB.

Mini USB and micro USB are two forms of USB that use a USB port that is smaller than the standard connection. The mini and micro are mostly used in mobile devices and are only different in form, not function.

Mini USB

Mini USB is the older of the two formats. Its port is smaller than a standard USB port, allowing USB connections on small devices such as mobile phones and digital cameras. The transfer rate of mini-USB can be up to 800-megabytes per second.

Micro USB

Micro USB is one of the newer USB formats, first announced in 2007. As small as mini USB connectors are, micro USB is even smaller. Just like mini-USB, it is used on mobile phones, MP3 players, GPS systems, digital camera and other portable devices. Its speed is identical to that of a mini USB.

Use

Micro USB allows for smaller connection ports, and therefore smaller devices, so it is becoming the most popular of the two connection types. Micro USB has already become the standard USB charger interface for nearly all smartphones, practically eliminating the need for mini USB.

Tags: Mini micro, mobile phones, smaller than, smaller than standard, than standard

Parts Of A Laptop Computer

Laptops are like any other computer.

Laptop computers are made of the same parts as larger desktop computers but fit into a smaller space. Some of the parts are harder to find, and each laptop is assembled differently. Everything is connected to a motherboard that houses the central processing unit. Outside of that, there are multiple compartments and panels to access the RAM, batteries and disk drives.

Outer Shell

On the outside of the laptop, you can immediately access several pieces. Before you can get to the main system board, you might have to remove the battery and panels that make up the computer casing. In a typical laptop, the keyboard must be removed to access RAM slots. Laptop batteries have sliding buttons to release them from the casing.

Drive Bays

On the sides of a laptop are bays and slots for several types of hardware. All but the smallest laptops, like netbooks, have optical disk drives that are removable. A separate bay contains the hard disk and is often screwed shut while the optical drives can sometimes be removed as the computer is on. Older laptops have slots for wireless cards or other special cards.

Internal Parts

If you remove the keyboard and other necessary panels, you can access the system board. The system board contains the central processor, the heating elements, the CMOS chips and connectors for every other part. Cables from the monitor will connect to this board along with any drives. A graphics card may be attached, but most are integrated into the main board. Additional connectors for the power, LCD screen, sound and network ports will be part of the board or connected by wires.

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Problems With An Asus P5wd2e Motherboard

The Asus P5WD2-E motherboard has three notable, documented problems. The motherboard works correctly in most situations and is a generally well-reviewed piece of hardware. It is compatible with Pentium 4 HT generation processors, but will not work with Core2Duo processors.

Keyboard Recognition

This particular board may run into problems recognizing specific keyboard models. If you run into this problem, try plugging the keyboard into a different USB or PS/2 slot. You can also try using a USB to PS/2 or PS/2 to USB adapter to plug the keyboard into a different slot.

Voltage Spikes

Gary Key, a reviewer from AnandTech, found that the P5WD2-E model experiences minor CPU voltage spikes when overclocking a dual-core processor. This problem can cause the CPU to run hotter than it should and can cause damage to the component over time. The easiest way to work around this problem is to not overclock the processor on this motherboard.

Operating System

Some users report problems with the motherboard using the first version of Windows XP and Windows XP SP1. However, the hardware has no problems working with Windows XP SP2 and later versions of Windows.

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Msi Installation Options

MSI files, also known as Microsoft Installer files, are designed to make the installation of software programs easier for the end user. The files may deployed in a few different ways. The most common method is direct deployment, but advanced users may use batch files or the command prompt to execute the installation with special commands that change the way the software is installed and the options available during use.

Direct Deployment

This method is recommended for novice users and is the standard deployment option. You simply double click on the MSI icon and follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation.

Command-Line Deployment

This method allows users to pass specific switches that control different aspects of the installation process to the installer. This method is recommended for advanced users and requires you to open the command prompt "As an Administrator" and type the following to execute the MSI package: "C:\Windows\System32\msiExec.exe -i C:\\.msi."

Batch File Deployment

This option is useful for advanced users who wish to pass the same parameters to all of their MSI installations. You simply open a Notepad file, type the launch code ("C:\Windows\System32\msiExec.exe -i %1"), and save the file as a ".bat" or batch file. Then you drag the .msi file onto the batch-file icon, and the installation begins.

Tags: advanced users, Deployment This, This method, command prompt, Deployment This method

What Is Ami Bios

BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is also known as Built-in Operating System. A BIOS chip is called a motherboard. This is the basic structure of your computer, to which other chips and utilities are added. BIOS actually refers to the operating system of the chip. American Megatrends Inc. produces the AMIBIOS, a motherboard controller software. This is the most widely sold BIOS.

Features

AMI has produced a limited number of motherboards for direct sale; however, its marketing strategy precludes direct sales, and it only produces components to be sold as part of other companies' products. AMI motherboards are anonymous; the company does not print its name anywhere on the product. It can only be identified by decoding the serial number printed on the motherboard.

Function

The BIOS program is called automatically when a computer is switched on. It invokes all the other programs the computer needs to function.

Development

Allthough BIOS systems are still produced. This function is has been superseded by the Extensible Firmware Interface, or EFI, which is managed by the Unified EFI Forum.

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Main Uses Of Htpc

HTPCs provide a unified solution to home theater equipment.

The main advantage of a Home Theater Personal Computer is flexibility. These devices are designed to provide the ability to play media in a wide variety of formats. HTPCs are compatible with most audio and video output devices and provide significantly higher quality output than standard home media equipment. HTPC's also provide other services including Web browsing, gaming and the ability to record media.

Video

HTPCs take advantage of the flexibility of video cards to provide high definition output in a variety of formats. Modern video cards can display images using output formats including VGA, S-Video and HDMI. Most types of television, monitor and projector use one of these formats making them useful for watching movies. Home theater computers can also take the place of a satellite or cable receiver allowing users to watch digital cable and satellite. Since HTPCs can connect to the Internet, users can watch videos stored online from a television. Users can also play back video files stored on the HTPCs hard drive, a DVD or a BluRay disc.

Audio

Using an HTPC, users can play audio from a variety of sources in high definition. HTPCs with suitable sound or video cards produce high definition audio using HDMI or S/PDIF outputs. These audio formats support surround sound, digital audio output and multi-channel sound. Using these formats provides the ability to simultaneously play audio from two sources on different speakers using data files stored in a multitude of formats. Audio files stored on a hard drive, CDs, DVDs, USB drives, MP3 players and online audio are all accessible from a HTPC.

Internet

HTPCs bring full Internet connectivity into the living room. Users can play online PC video games, watch videos, listen to online radio stations, browse the web or any other online task that a computer can perform. This functionality also allows users to sync their home entertainment system with other computers. Using this functionality users can access media files stored on their other computers from their living room.

Compatibility

The primary advantage of the HTPC is that it combines the functionality of a broad range of home entertainment devices under a single box. Its compatibility with many different types of audio and video output allows users to control their home theater system from a central source. Home theater computer systems also provide support for other useful technologies found in home theater systems including 3D video output, DVR, motion tracking and video and audio conferencing.

Tags: files stored, high definition, video cards, video output, allows users, also provide, audio from

What Is Pci Simple Communications Controller

Reinstalling Windows can leave you with a device manager with some unidentified hardware.

It's a good idea to back up your computer's installed drivers in case you ever need to reinstall Windows. Software tools available online can help with this task. This way, if or when you need to reinstall Windows, you can get your hardware restored and working quickly, without searching all over the Web for the appropriate driver downloads. Two such driver backup utilities are My Drivers and Driver Magician. If you changed your system configuration in some way and find yourself in the position of seeing "Simple Communications Controller" in your device manager list, there is an easy way to identify what this device actually is and get on the path to getting the right drivers.

Download Unknown Device Identifier

Launch your preferred Web browser and navigate to the My Drivers website to download the Unknown Device Identifier utility (see Resources). This useful little program is freeware, so you don't have to purchase it or worry about limitations or nag screens. Once you have it downloaded, find the location on your computer where you downloaded the installer and click it to begin the installation.

Detection and Options

The utility will automatically detect all devices in your system when it starts up. Look through the list and find the "PCI Simple Communications Controller" and right-click it for options. The "Find Driver" option will open up your Web browser and search the driver. "Contact Vendor" will go to the device manufacturer's home page, where you'll have the option of getting support and software for your device.

Likely Devices and Visual Inspection

A "PCI Simple Communications Controller" is usually a PCI modem, but it can be other, sometimes unlikely devices, such as an audio or serial device. If the Unknown Device Driver utility doesn't work for some reason, you may want to open up your computer's case and snoop around the PCI slots to get further clues to help you identify your PCI device. If you don't feel comfortable opening your computer's case, get your local computer guru to help you do this. Remind him to follow electrostatic discharge procedures to protect your computer from damage when the case is open.

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What Processors Can Run On A Foxconn 661fx7mjrs Motherboard

Some processors from the Pentium, Celeron, Core and Xeon brands of semiconductor company Intel Corporation can run on the Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS, a personal computer motherboard from Taiwanese computer product manufacturer Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd. This is due to a particular socket the motherboard possesses for physically and electrically connecting the processor. It is called Socket 775, released in 2004 and also known as LGA 775 or Socket T.

Pentium

Intel Corp. mainly made the socket on the Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS for the Intel Pentium 4, which at the time of the socket's release was the company's flagship consumer-oriented processor brand. This included the Pentium D and the Pentium Extreme Edition, which are higher-end versions of the brand; and the Pentium Dual-Core, which succeeded the Pentium 4 in 2006. Pentium processors that can run on the Foxconn motherboard have a processor speed range of 1.6GHz to 3.73GHz.

Celeron

The Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS, via its Socket 775, is also compatible with some Celeron processors, which constitute Intel Corp.'s entry-level brand. The processing speed range of the motherboard-compatible Celeron computer chips is 1.6GHz to 3.6GHz. The entries consist of the Celeron 400 series, Celeron D and dual-core Celeron processors.

Core

In 2006, Intel Corp. introduced the Core brand. By the end of the year, the Core brand had relegated Pentium to mid-range status and become the company's flagship brand of consumer-oriented processors. The compatible Core chips come from the Core 2 Duo, which is the dual-core version; the Core 2 Quad, which represents Core's quad-core chips; and the top-level Core 2 Extreme, which offers dual- and quad-core entries. The Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS-compatible processors via Socket 775 cover a processing speed range of 1.8GHz to 3.33GHz.

Xeon

Some Intel Xeon processors can also run on the Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS, particularly the quad-core Xeon 3000, E3000, L3000 and X3000 series. Intel designed these chips for use on servers and workstations, making them among the company's most powerful processors. Their processing speed range is 1.86GHz to 3.16GHz.

Tags: Foxconn 661FX7MJ-RS, speed range, Intel Corp, processing speed, processing speed range

What Is An Fpga Pc Motherboard

Field-programmable gate arrays are similar to, but offer advantages over, application-specific integrated circuits.

A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) motherboard is an end-user customized logic board. They are more complex than traditional PC motherboards, but less expensive than other similarly complex boards.

Purpose

Although specific architecture differs between device families, logic cells, or individual components within an FPGA system, combine binary inputs with outputs according to the user's program. A motherboard that has FPGA support is meant to be flexible in its implementation.

Advantage

A typical consumer motherboard performs a function defined by the manufacturer before production. An FPGA motherboard has a function that is determined by the end user. This enables users' access to complex designs without the costly engineering associated with task-specific motherboards.

Programming

Users of an FPGA system use special software to interpret either schematic diagrams, or hardware description language (HDL). The software programs the FPGA motherboard, and decides the layout of components within the FPGA system. Most software packages for this task allow the user to change the placement of components to improve performance.

Tags: FPGA motherboard, FPGA system, components within, components within FPGA, within FPGA

Update A Chipset Driver

Update your chipset for optimal PC performance.

All motherboards contain two areas of operation: the northbridge (which controls faster elements like the CPU) and the southbridge (which handles slower operations like your graphics card). In order for these two to work together, a chipset driver is put into place so the two can communicate with each other effectively. However, as technology progresses, occasionally you will need to update your chipset driver in order to have optimal performance using your computer’s motherboard.

Instructions

1. Determine which chipset your motherboard contains. Download and install CPU-Z, as this program will easily identify which chipset your motherboard uses. Run CPU-Z and, under the "Mainboard" tab, locate the heading that says "Chipset."

2. Download the latest driver for your chipset. This can be done by going to the website of the chipset manufacturer. Only download drivers designed to work with your specific type of chipset. Some of the more popular chipset manufacturers include Intel, NVIDIA and AMD.

3. Double-click the downloaded driver and follow the installation instructions. Installation should complete within five to 10 minutes. Reboot your computer to complete the installation of your new chipset driver.

Tags: your chipset, chipset driver, chipset your, chipset your motherboard, optimal performance, which chipset

Upgrade A Dell Inspiron 8000 Processor

Upgrade a Dell Inspiron 8000 Processor

The Dell Inspiron 8000 model laptop initially comes with a 1 GHz mobile Pentium III processor. While it will handle most standard computing needs, you may want to upgrade the processor for more computing power. Replacing a laptop processor is a much more difficult process than on a desktop because of how small the parts are and how little room there is to maneuver inside the case.

Instructions

1. Find and purchase a mobile Pentium III or Celeron replacement processor (see Resources below).

2. Turn off the laptop and close the lid. Pull out any peripherals you may have attached, such as a USB device or external mouse. Set the laptop upside down so that the bottom is facing upward. Press down on the battery release catch, and slide the battery entirely out of the computer.

3. Remove the four screws at the center of the case marked with a circle that has the letter "K" inside of it. Flip the computer back over and then open the top lid so the monitor is facing toward you. Slide the edge of a flathead screwdriver underneath the blank keyboard key at the bottom right side. Push up and pry the entire keyboard unit upward and toward the left. Detach the cable running from the left side of the keyboard to the motherboard.

4. Pull off the plastic bezel above the area where the keyboard was. Remove the screws holding the lid hinges on and pull off the hinges. Locate the processor cooling unit at the top right side of the motherboard just above the processor itself. Pull back the clips holding it into place and then pull out the cooling unit.

5. Hold a flathead screwdriver so that it is exactly perpendicular to the laptop and slowly remove the screw holding the processor down. Pull the entire processor straight up and set it aside. Line up the pins on the new processor with the holes where the old processor was located. Push the new processor down gently and attach the screw. Place the cooling unit into place and snap the clips that hold it in place.

6. Re-attach the hinges, bezel, keyboard and screws on the bottom end of the case. Put the battery back into the laptop and power it on.

Tags: cooling unit, Dell Inspiron, Dell Inspiron 8000, Inspiron 8000, 8000 Processor, flathead screwdriver