XPS 15 L502x upgrade questions

Hi! I'm new to this forum but I have to say there is is a massive ammount of information here! Great! Thanks for that!

I bought an XPS 15 L502x a little over a month ago and i'm very sattisfied. I just have some upgrade questions:

1) I have the i5 2410m processor now (because I was on a budget) but is it possible to replace the processor with a i7 sandy bridge model? I realize that this is not a normal upgrade but i'm very curious to know if it is possible...
1.a) If yes, where do I get a mobile cpu? Last year, I built a desktop PC and desktop components were very easy to find on the internet but mobile components are much harder to find i guess.
1.b) If yes, how hard is it to replace it? Is it very dangerous? Is there anyone who has tried this before?

2) In Belgium, where i live, it wasn't possible to order the backlit keyboard on the site. Apparently you have to call or mail and ask for it specifically which I didn't know at the time. Is it possible to replace the keyboard with a backlit one?
2.a) If yes, can you order it by calling dell? Are there other places where you can order it? Has anyone an idea how much this will cost me?

These upgrades (if possible) are not for the coming weeks. It will be for in a month or two. Perhaps the keyboard now, if it is not too expensive.

3) Not really an upgrade question but I saw some topics about repasting the cpu and gpu. Can't hurt to ask if this is a real problem with the dell laptops? Is it recommended to check the temps or is it just a problem in case you overclock?

In any case, thanks for your efforts on this forum!

Kind regards

 

1.
hard to replace for normal user.
2. call dell.

3.yes check temperature, don't over clock. GT540 card play hard game already to 88-95C.

Dell plan update cpu from 2410--->2430. now on taiwan outlet already sell vostro 3450 I5-2430 model.

next year is ivy bridge. display card performance 25%. cpu power also.

 

If you don't already have a 1080p screen, upgrade that before you think about upgrading the pricessor, because it makes significantly more of a difference.

 

So the processor is hard to replace but it is possible. Well, if there was a site where i could buy a mobile cpu. I would certainly consider upgrading it.

Concerning the temps, so basically everyone who buys an xps 15 should check the temps?! I am not considering overclocking the gpu. I just don't want to fry anyting or so by playing a game.

I already have the 1080p screen but after that, there was not much money left, so i went with the i5 while i would prefer an i7. The problem with replacing the cpu is that i can't find any store on the internet who sells mobile cpu's...

Thanks for the replies!

 

FF8062700837005 Intel Core i7 Mobile Processor i7-2630QM 2.0GHz 6MB CPU, OEM - Intel Mobile - SuperBiiz.com

I found this from a simple google search.

If you follow the service manual carefully, it won't be that hard, but it will take a good while. I made some scratches and a bump on my previous xps14 when I disassembled it for the first time. Replacing the cpu is not hard, just remove the screw and pull it out, be very careful though, you're probably screwed if the pin breaks.

Backlit keyboard is pretty much the same as regular, just one extra connector you have to plug in.

 

Thanks! Exactly what i needed I already learned that doing this sort of things is not something you do in a hurry Thanks for the tips!