Thoughts - Upgrading notebook computers

In this blog, I focus on upgrading and to some degree modding notebook computers.  In general, upgrading notebook computers is not something that's discussed and when it is discussed, it's usually isolated to RAM and hard drive upgrades.  Granted that anything other than RAM and hard drive upgrades tend to be more difficult to perform.  So the question I'm going to answer is, "Why?"


1.  Cost

Notebook computers are expensive when compared to their desktop counterparts.  Purchasing a new mid-tier notebook computer can cost approximately 700 USD (as of 2012).  Upgrading an older notebook computer with a more modern CPU generally costs approximately 150 USD (depending on age and assuming standard notebook computer design that allows CPU to be exchanged), memory costs roughly 50 USD (depending on age), and a hard drive upgrade can cost 100 USD (depends on technology and age).  An upgrade would cost approximately 300 USD and is still cheaper than purchasing a new notebook computer.  However, much patience is required to get certain parts installed.

2.  Investment

I like to think of computing technology as an investment.  I don't like how the industry treats notebook computers as disposable consumer technology.  In truth, a TV, DVD/BluRay player (in the old days it was a VCR and you can still get good use out of a VCR), radio, etc. has a longer lifetime than a notebook computer.  I still have a CRT TV, sure it's hooked up to a HD converter, but it works.  People go through computers on a 2-5 year cycle.  I've seen washing machines older than computers.  Granted than washing machines don't have the same complexities, but I'm referring to the investment.  Invest in a good washing machine today and keep it for 10+ years.  Invest in a 1500 USD notebook today and most people will swap it out in about 5 years.  The lower the price point, the more likely you are buy a new notebook computer sooner.  700 USD notebook computers don't last much beyond 2 years.  They get "slow" real fast.  New operating systems and software bog down budget notebook computers very quickly.  The older computers that I own are pushing the 10 year mark or are older than 10 years old.  Incremental upgrades help tremendously and don't break the bank.

3. Challenge

It's because it's hard that makes the upgrade, "fun". Yes, it can takes HOURS to perform CPU exchanges. HOURS of research to determine if an upgrade might work. And HOURS of plain old tinkering.

For CPU upgrades, there's very little information as to what CPUs the motherboards of notebook computers support, how much maximum RAM a notebook computer can support (manufacturer specifications are sometimes not 100% accurate), and what mini PCI and mini PCIe expansions are possible. Additionally, BIOS options are limited.

Final thoughts

I realize that opening up a notebook computer isn't for everyone, but the notebook computer upgrades should be taken more seriously.  I like new computers just like everyone else, but in todays era of reduce, reuse, recycle, buy new technology so often feels like a waste especially these days because computing technology is good.  It's much better than most people are aware of.  A new processor will help more than you think.  As of 2012, a solid state hard drive (SSD) upgrade is the biggest bang for your buck.  You'll get a DRAMATIC increase in performance.  Replace the internal DVD/CDROM drive that you probably use once in a while and get an external DVD/CDROM drive and replace the internal one with a HDD caddy.  The one thing I DEFINTELY like to see the manufacturers do is make the video card replaceable.  That's probably one of the biggest limitations of notebook computers.  Modern gaming notebook computers have tried to do it, but the connectors are still proprietary.

If you're interested in performing your own upgrade, ask away.  I'll help out as much as I can, but make sure you make use of all your resources.

Use the Intel ARK Advanced Search to lookup processors and compatible chipsets.  Once you know what processor you have, then you can pick the chipset that you most likely have and then you can see all the compatible processors.

Use CPU-Z to help you identify your processor and motherboard and chipset.

Use online forums like forum.notebookreview.com.  The users of this particular forum are very dedicated.

eBay is a fantastic place to find parts, especially for older computers.  Other places to find parts for your notebook computer:

• Amazon has well known parts.  Nothing obscure.
• Logic Supply and Embedded Works has a good selection of mini PCIe components.
• MyDigitalDiscount has all kinds of SSDs.

The internet is your friend.  Look for teardown guides, CPU reviews, search for mods to your specific notebook computer, maybe even learn to solder, etc.

Good luck!