How To Change A CPU and GPU

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TheJJBman11

TheJJBman11

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Jan 6, 2015
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Hey!

I might change my CPU and GPU and if I do I'd like to be safe about it. I know that the CPU is more complicated so I'll ask about that second.

GPU: I know that you uninstall all drivers, unplug all power and unplug all cables and take it out. I have the AMD Radeon R9 280X, is there any additional unplugging or unscrewing I need to be aware of? Thanks.

CPU: Do you simply take out the fan, then pull up the little lever; take out the CPU, replace it with the new one and apply Thermal Paste?
Additionally, will I need to upgrade the BIOS? I have an i5 4670 and want an i7 4790k, if I do I'll make another thread.

Finally, will I need two Anti-Static Wristbands? I one one that cost £0.96, shall I just pick them up? They'll be shoddy and cheap but will that do the job?

Thank you very much for the responses. :)
 
Solution
gilbadon
GPU:
Turn it off,
switch the power supply off in the back or unplug it,
remove all power cables from GPU,
unscrew from case on rear end,
pull back the tab on the motherboard holding the GPU into place,
remove the old GPU,
install new GPU in reverse order as the last one was removed (motherboard tab will not need to be touched)

CPU:
A: Why do you want to update the CPU? It is more than enough for any game scenario.
B: Yes you do need to update the bios if you have a z87 motherboard. Make sure you do that prior to changing CPU's.
C: Yes, your procedure is correct, but you will also need to clean the old thermal paste off the cooler and apply new thermal paste.

Anti static: You do not need it. Just touch a ground plane prior to if you're...
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OriginalCadaver

OriginalCadaver

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May 24, 2014
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I'm not sure if you will gain much upgrading from the i5 to the i7, but that's besides the point. Anti-static wrist bands are a good idea, but you only need one to discharge any static build up. As long as you are getting a CPU that uses the same socket you can pop the old one out and put the new one in, apply the thermal paste and reattach the fan. The GPU upgrade is pretty simple too, I would suggest removing the old one and plugging your monitor in to the on-board graphics, then doing the CPU upgrade first. Download and install any drivers, once everything is working then plug the new GPU in and install CCC.
 
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gilbadon

gilbadon

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Jun 16, 2008
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GPU:
Turn it off,
switch the power supply off in the back or unplug it,
remove all power cables from GPU,
unscrew from case on rear end,
pull back the tab on the motherboard holding the GPU into place,
remove the old GPU,
install new GPU in reverse order as the last one was removed (motherboard tab will not need to be touched)

CPU:
A: Why do you want to update the CPU? It is more than enough for any game scenario.
B: Yes you do need to update the bios if you have a z87 motherboard. Make sure you do that prior to changing CPU's.
C: Yes, your procedure is correct, but you will also need to clean the old thermal paste off the cooler and apply new thermal paste.

Anti static: You do not need it. Just touch a ground plane prior to if you're nervous. That can include a plugged in power supply (switched off), or anything metal in your house almost.
 
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Solution
ASmith426

ASmith426

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Jan 15, 2015
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It seems like you have a good grasp on the steps you need to take to change out those parts. The GPU switch is just as your described; its very straightforward.

The steps you described for the CPU are accurate, however, I would note to pay attention to the amount of thermal paste you place on the new CPU. You should not have to update any BIOS , or drivers (except for GPU), as Windows shold do it for you. Since you are not changing motherboards, you may (should) not have to do a fresh install of an OS. I have changed CPUs (only) and did not HAVE to do a fresh install of an OS. I have read that there is a chance Windows will read the new hardware as a new computer and require a new install, so be sure to create a backup just in case.

I personally never use anti-static straps when working on computers. I have never had any issues (knock on wood) but I always ensure to work on non carpeted surfaces and to touch metal objects (computer case) before working with computer parts. If you have ready access to them, why not take the extra precaution?
 
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TheJJBman11

TheJJBman11

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Jan 6, 2015
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Thank you all very much for the advice, I think I will only upgrade my GPU (when the prices come down) as it seems like the i7 4790k isn't much different than the i5 4670 in gaming. Is it only necessary in CAD design, editting, rendering and hardcore PC gaming? Because I'm quite a big gamer but not like Crysis etc.
 
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