Is a PC's processor upgradable?

Question

. . . and if it is, is it as easy to replace as a hard drive or video card?

Answer 1

Upgrading the processor in a PC is easier then most think. First you need to identify the type of processor your computer uses and the type of socket it has, you can not fit a Socket A processor into a Socket 7 motherboard. Next you need to see if there is an upgraded processor for your motherboard. All new processors come with instructions on how to install the processor onto your motherboard, just reverse the instructions and you have have to remove the processor. The hardest part is making sure that the heatsink is properly connected to prevent damage to your processor.

Answer 2

Generally, Yes. Whether is is cost-effective is a good discussion
Yes, its easy to do. First, identify your motherboard and current processor, This will give you the type of processer socket. Go to the Mobo manufacturer's website, and identify what processers you can use, cross refer to the processer manufacturer's website. From here, you can identify possible upgrades.
For the actual replacement, refer to your motherboard manual, re insert/remove, and possibly jumper settings. When you get your processer, best get the fan for that processer, far easier.
As I say,cost-effective is another story. They dont come cheap, and given limitations of your older motherboard, may not be valid. My own 'upgrade rules', "When just above entry level speed is 4 times what I have, then upgrade" Invariably this means Motherboard, Processer and Memory. For motherboard, I get the 'best of the bunch' in terms of facilities. Memory at thet time..... multiply what i have by 4. Sometimes, I will do a half-life upgrade, more memory. Seems to work for me!!!!1

Answer 3

To answer the question, it depends on how old your computer is. Also, yes and no about it being as easy to replace as HD or video card. It can be easy if you do it right and are very careful. However, if you do it wrong (e.g., use a screw driver to pop the fan/heatsink off and accidentally slip and hit or scratch the mobo with your screwdriver) you are in for a world of hurt. It's mainly a matter off getting the fan/heatsink off, pulling up the lever on the side to release the CPU and then pulling it off and replacing with a new one. So it can be easy, but it can also be VERY dangerous.

Answer 4

yes you can get a n upgrade but the pin count must be the same in order to work. it is very easy to replace .when you replace this you also need to get thermal paste which you can get at a computer store. cost up to $5.00. I got a faster processor off ebay at half the cost of a new one.took about 5 min to replace. if your pin count is ex:478 then you need to get another one with 478 pins.

Answer 5

Processor can be upgraded only up to the limits that is supported by mother board. It is the socket where CPU is fitted is the basic problem. Processor can be over clocked, but it is risky. You can burn up your CPU if you are not a expert user.

Answer 6

Generally they are upgradable.
You have to undo the clamps holding on the heatsink and fan and remove the old thermal paste. I use q-tips and alcohol make sure its clean and reapply some new thermal compound "Arctic silver" to the heatsink make sure you spread it out nice and smooth then replace heatsink and fan and snap the holders back on and your done.

Answer 7

Depends on the mother board. You have to see what the highest MHz it can handle. They are a plug in part on most mother boards. I recommend going to www.Tomshardware.com to get more info on this subject.

Answer 8

Umm, Its possible.. yes, but faily difficult, you have to find the right one with the right size etc...
just buy a $440 Computer upgrade.

Answer 9

yes but check out your motherboards specs to see the highest that it will support

Answer 10

no it is not upgradable.