How to Upgrade to a 64-Bit Processor on a HP Pavilion DV9720US Running Vista
In order for you to take advantage of the extra features in the 64-bit version of Windows Vista, your computer must first have a compatible 64-bit processor installed. If you didn't choose a 64-bit processor with your HP Pavilion DV9720US laptop computer, that doesn't mean you are entirely out of luck. If you are prepared to open up your Pavilion laptop and remove several components, it is possible to remove the current processor and replace it with a 64-bit component.
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Things You'll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Socket S1 64 bit processor
- Thermal paste
Instructions
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1
Shut down the Windows Vista operating system and remove the Pavilion's AC adapter. Remove any hardware devices or USB drives connected to the laptop.
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2
Close the LCD lid and flip the Pavilion over to reveal the bottom end of the case. Slide over the black, rectangular button near the bottom end of the case to pop the battery pack upward. Pull out the battery pack.
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3
Remove the six Phillips style keyboard cover screws hidden underneath the battery pack and the single keyboard screw at the center of the case. Flip the computer over and lift open the LCD lid. Grab the top of the plastic keyboard cover above the keyboard, and pull the cover toward you.
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4
Unplug the cable connecting the bottom of the plastic cover to the motherboard. Set the cover aside and remove the three Phillips screws at the top of the keyboard.
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5
Lift the top edge of the keyboard toward and slide the bottom edge of the keyboard towards the LCD screen to disengage the plastic locks. Unplug the keyboard's cable and remove the keyboard from the laptop.
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6
Locate the black plastic fan positioned at the right end of the Pavilion's motherboard. Unplug the attached cable and remove the three screws holding the fan in place. Pull the fan upward and place it aside.
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7
Remove the two screws holding the metal heat sink in place, which is positioned directly next to the fan. Pull the heat sink off the motherboard and set it upside down on a sturdy surface outside the laptop. Avoid touching the bottom of the heat sink or you may damage the unit from oils held in your skin.
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8
Insert the end of a flat-head screwdriver into the locking screw below the square processor. Turn the screwdriver counter clockwise one half turn to unlock the processor. Pull the processor off the motherboard's Socket S1 port.
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Lift the processor off the socket. Set your new 64 bit processor onto the socket and press down gently. Place a layer of thermal paste on top of the new processor according to the package instructions.
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Turn the screw clockwise a half turn to lock the new processor to the socket. Reassemble each of the components you removed earlier in the opposite order to put your Pavilion back together.
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Tips & Warnings
Socket S1 64 bit processors are available online through websites that sell laptop components and other electronics.
Before touching the new processor your must be grounded first by touching something metal connected to the floor or you may cause damage through static electricity discharge.
