Upgrading the CPU

[Krl70]

Now, my computer broke and I took it to the repair shop. The man in the store told me on the way out that I probably would want a new processor. I have a 2.2GHz dual-core t4400, my computer is an Acer Aspire 5738PZG and I have a socket P.

Now, I was google-ing around but I couldn't find if the socket matters, or what processors I could buy to my socket.

Does the Socket matter? What processors are there available for my socket?

[Dr Super Good]

Does the Socket matter?

Most obviously it does. Same reason you can not plug a DVI caple into a VGA output, they are just physically incompatible.

Additionally your motherboard BIOS might just not like some processors.

I advise reading up on your motherboard model to see what processors it supports.

When changing the CPU, it is important to place new thermal gel between the surface of the CPU package and the heatsink when finishing off. The gel has a lower thermal resistance than a tight seal with air so improves heat dissipation efficiency.

[Krl70]

Originally Posted by Dr Super Good

Most obviously it does. Same reason you can not plug a DVI caple into a VGA output, they are just physically incompatible.

Additionally your motherboard BIOS might just not like some processors.

I advise reading up on your motherboard model to see what processors it supports.

When changing the CPU, it is important to place new thermal gel between the surface of the CPU package and the heatsink when finishing off. The gel has a lower thermal resistance than a tight seal with air so improves heat dissipation efficiency.

Yeah, I figured.

And about the installation, I'm going to get the guy at the repair shop to do it. When repairing they give you a free warranty if it breaks.

[Gilles]

Why did he tell you you need a new one? Is there something wrong with the CPU, or is he simply recommending you to upgrade?

[Krl70]

Originally Posted by Gilles

Why did he tell you you need a new one? Is there something wrong with the CPU, or is he simply recommending you to upgrade?

Well, I can only guess, but I think that he meant that it was too slow.

[BlargHonk]

Originally Posted by Krl70

Well, I can only guess, but I think that he meant that it was too slow.

There aren't many upgrade levels above the T4400, I'd expect him to put in a 2.5ghz 45nm P/T in, and thats only about a 15-20% increase in performance.

You really should just get a new laptop altogether.

[Krl70]

Well, I probably won't. I am currently putting together a desktop. I need a little more money to afford the hard-drive, though.

[Gilles]

Then I wouldn't bother upgrading the laptop. As Blarg said, you aren't going to get much of an upgrade and if there's nothing wrong with the CPU, just use that laptop until it dies.