Installing a new processor

On an Alienware M15x, what do you need to install a new processor?

Just a screwdriver or do you need antistatic gloves and thermal paste?

Also, does anyone have a guide to install a new processor?

 

Its easy, I have replaced many laptop and desktop processors. All you need is a screw driver & thermal paste(my favorite is Antec Formula 5). First ground yourself. Second remove bottom panel and processor heatsink. Unlock the processor and pull it out and put new one in, and lock it in. 3rd put small glob of thermal past on processor and spread with finger. Then put it all back together.

 

Read the service manual thoroughly, then do it again.

M15x, I think you need to take the bottom access panel and the air vents off to get to the heatsink/processor. You'll probably need multiple sizes of philips head screwdriver bits unless you intend to strip the screws and replace them with new ones. I'd recommend having a multi-compartment tray to keep the screws sorted (or just an upside down piece of tape). A magnet on a stick isn't a bad idea if you're clumsy or your desk isn't flat. Plastic scribe might be needed to pop off the plastics, although I'm not sure if it's mandatory for that panel.

As for spreading thermal paste, do NOT use your finger. The oils on your finger can do bad things to processors. You'll either need a shim to span the gap between the heatsink and the processor or a thermal pad to replace the one you just butchered (not a good idea if the new processor runs significantly hotter).

No antistatic gloves necessary, just take your shoes off and touch a large piece of unpainted metal.

 

Look at the manual right here: Alienware: Online Documentation

It looks like you may be able to use thermal paste without anything else. Just try it and see if it works as it will only cost you a minute or two, but have a back up plan like a shim or another way of getting direct contact. I prefer razor blades to spread thermal paste to get a very even thin layer on the die. I find it to be a little better than putting on a drop and smashing it because there is less thermal paste getting in the way of heat transfer if I spread it before hand.

 

I agree touching the top of the processor with finger is bad. But when I'm spreading thermal paste, the thermal paste I touch with my finger, sticks to my finger. Leaving no oil(from my skin) on the processor or thermal paste on processor. A razor is a good idea.

 

And this is posted because? Oh sorry AW.

 

I'm bored