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    CPU Upgrading

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by doobj, Feb 26, 2007.

  1. doobj

    doobj Newbie

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    Hi, I recently purchased a benq joybook s73g with a T5500 core 2 duo processor in it. I'd like to know if anyone here knows if the processor is SOLDERED onto the motherboard or not (thereby limiting any attempts to upgrade the CPU in the future). I do not plan on upgrading within the next year, if anyone was wondering.


    Thanks
     
    doobj, Feb 26, 2007
    #1
  2. Greg

    Greg Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Well, the best you can upgrade to is the T5600, T7200, T7400, and T7600. Newer Core 2 processors will be based off of a different chipset and pin layout, so they will not work in current notebooks.

    If you want to find out, download and run CPU-Z. If, in the processor details, you see the letters PGA (for Pin Grid Array) you can upgrade. If it is BGA (Ball Grid Array) it is a soldered unit and your notebook gets to keep it for life.

    Honestly, a CPU upgrade is costly and risky. I wouldn't do it until you KNOW that you need more power.
     
    Greg, Feb 26, 2007
    #2
  3. Zero

    Zero The Random Guy

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    The points that night_2004 has mentioned are very valid. Have alook at CPU-Z, and it will tell you whether the processor is oldered or not (by noting if it is BGA). If not, you can upgrade, but it is quite a procedure. Plus, you will void your warranty, if you decide to upgrade.

    YTour current processor is not slow by any means. Unless you want to complete tasks such as serious video editing or encoding faster, there is little point in upgrading. Often, the money can be spent elsewhere, lie on RAM or a faster hard disk.
     
    Zero, Feb 26, 2007
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  4. doobj

    doobj Newbie

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    Hello again

    My friend has a Macbook (core duo), and he ran the cpu-z program on his laptop and got socket 479 mPGA, though the Macbook has soldered in CPU's, can anyone explain this?
     
    doobj, Feb 27, 2007
    #4