Upgrading laptops is fairly strenuous task, requiring knowledge of the insides of the laptop and a steady hand. Unlike desktop computers, which have plenty of space to work with, laptops were built to be compact. You will find various parts layered directly on top of the parts that you may need to get to. Because of this, you need to be extra careful when upgrading your laptop yourself.

When you start upgrading, check the screws that are holding your computer. You may find that there are some screws that will be impossible to open with a simple Phillips head. You can try taking the time and unscrewing them with a small flat-edge screwdriver if you think this upgrade process will be a one time event. It will be difficult, but shouldn't take too long. If you plan on continuously upgrading, however, it may be worth your time to invest in a screwdriver of that shape or replacement screws that fit the empty hole and your screwdriver.

Make sure you have a printed plan of what you are going to do before you even start thinking about taking your laptop apart. Most laptops come with a manual that will neatly describe all of the parts and may even describe replacement of parts in a step-by-step fashion. DO NOT DISREGARD THIS PART! There are many complicated pieces in a computer, and it is not always easy to tell whether a wire is connected to your monitor, or some other crucial part of your laptop. Remember, you're doing this on your own to save yourself the hassle of sending it to the service center. You don't want to screw your laptop up. Unless you're an expert, read the directions. Target the parts you want to replace, make sure that you get the right type and begin taking your computer apart.

Here are a few rules you ABSOLUTELY MUST follow when taking your computer apart.
- Rule 1: Follow directions!
I know I already mentioned this, but it bears mentioning again. If you do not follow directions, I can guarantee that you will take something out that didn't need to be taken out in the first place. You may even damage something if you don't pay attention. Why go through the trouble? Follow the directions all the way through. There are no shortcuts here.

-Rule 2: Get the right parts!
Nothing is sadder than getting the wrongs parts. Read your user manual, check the dealer, and do everything possible to make sure you have the right kind of RAM, video card, hard drive, monitor, or whatever it may be. Just make sure you have the right

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Tips on upgrading laptop computers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!