Upgrade Laptop Computer Processors

Some laptop computer processors can be upgraded.

Upgrading a laptop computer processor is not for beginners. It's possible to completely destroy your laptop during a major upgrade of this type. That being said, it can be done successfully if you take the time to learn everything you can about your laptop. Also, you should already have some experience upgrading desktop or laptop computer components. Of course, each laptop is different, and some require more work than others. Follow these general steps to safely upgrade your laptop computer processor.

Instructions

Prepare

1. Find out if it's possible to upgrade your processor. Most laptops have upgradeable processors, but some have CPUs that are integrated into the main board. Refer to your owner's manual to determine what kind of processor your laptop has.

2. Buy a new processor from a computer parts dealer or at an online auction. Refer to your owner's manual to determine the fastest CPU your laptop can handle. For example, it may be something like a Pentium M 1.8 GHz on 400 FSB.

3. Back up your data on an external hard drive or other medium. Usually the contents of a laptop hard drive remain safe during a CPU upgrade, but things can still go wrong.

4. Draw a diagram to help keep your laptop components organized. For each section you disassemble, draw a diagram representing the part or screw you remove. Lay the screws or parts on the diagram in their proper location.

5. Study the manufacturer's laptop assembly guide before you start the upgrade. Follow it carefully as you remove each component. Touch something metal periodically to remove any static charge. Work on a large table with a bright light source.

Upgrade

6. Turn off the laptop and unplug it. Remove the battery, CD/DVD optical drives and the hard drive. The hard drive is usually located in a slot on one side of the laptop. Remove the screw that holds the cover in place, then pull out the hard drive sled.

7. Turn the laptop over and remove the screws on the bottom that hold the keyboard in place. Flip the laptop over, open it, then lift the keyboard up and out. Carefully unplug the flexible ribbon cable that connects the keyboard to the motherboard.

8. Remove the screws that hold the keyboard bezel and palm rest in place. Some of the screws may be covered with round stickers or rubber plugs. Carefully lift the bezel and palm rest up and out.

9. Unplug the heatsink fan. Remove the screws that hold the heatsink in place, then remove it from the laptop. Release or unscrew the mechanism that holds the original processor in place, then remove it from the laptop.

10. Install the new processor. Make sure it is securely attached and properly aligned in the CPU housing. Apply a thin layer of thermal compound on the processor, then replace the heatsink and fan. Replace the screws, then plug the fan back in.

11. Test the new processor. Connect the keyboard to the motherboard temporarily. Plug the laptop back in, restart it, then follow the instructions in your owner's manual to enter your system's BIOS. The new CPU should now be recognized by the BIOS. Turn off the laptop, unplug it, then remove the keyboard.

12. Reassemble the laptop by following your diagrams and the manufacturer's assembly guide. Replace the round stickers or rubber plugs to complete the upgrade.

Tags: your laptop, hard drive, laptop computer, owner manual, place then

Disable The Video Graphics Adapter On Bios

Once you enter into your computer's BIOS utility, you can enable and disable any piece of hardware you'd like. This includes the video graphics adapter installed inside your computer. The video graphics adapter is different from a regular display adapter in that it only processes graphics intensive applications like certain video games or editing utilities, which will likely not work correctly once the device is disabled.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer and access your BIOS setup program. When your computer turns on, one of the first screens you see will contain your computer's manufacturer's logo. If HP made your computer, for example, you will see the HP logo on your screen. Beneath this logo is the word "BIOS," followed by a specific keyboard key. Press this keyboard key to access your BIOS.

2. Choose "Advanced."

3. Choose the option for your video graphics adapter. Once selected, two options will appear in relation to the adapter: "Enable" and "Disable."

4. Highlight "Disable." Press "Enter." Your video graphics adapter is now disabled in your BIOS.

Tags: your computer, video graphics, video graphics adapter, your BIOS, access your

Does The Motherboard Fsb Need To Match The Cpu Fsb

A motherboard operates at a limited number of FSB speeds.

A computer Central Processing Unit is designed for a motherboard with a specific Front Side Bus speed such as 133 MHz. The FSB speed is one of two factors that determine the CPU's clock speed. Although it is possible to adjust a motherboard's FSB speed -- thus changing the speed of the CPU -- doing so can have negative effects.

FSB and Multiplier Speeds

A CPU has an internal multiplier that, along with the motherboard's FSB speed, determines the clock speed at which it runs. For example, the Intel Core i7-860 processor has a multiplier of 21x and is designed to run on a motherboard with an FSB speed of 133 MHz, giving it a clock speed of 2.8 GHz. The clock speed printed on a CPU or its box is not a fixed number; if you adjust the multiplier or FSB speed, the CPU clock speed changes.

Overclocking

Adjusting a motherboard to run at a higher FSB speed than the processor requires is called overclocking. For example, running the Intel Core i7-860 on a motherboard with an FSB speed of 150 MHz results in a CPU clock speed of 3.15 GHz. Overclocking a CPU causes a computer's performance to improve when running applications that depend heavily on CPU speed. Overclocking can also save money; after overclocking, a lower-speed CPU can potentially reach the same performance level as a more expensive CPU from the same product line.

Risks of Overclocking

All of a computer's components use the motherboard's FSB to communicate with one another. Therefore, although the most apparent result of overclocking is increased processor speed, overclocking actually forces all of the computer's components to work harder, causing added stress on the entire machine. The effects of overclocking are difficult to predict; the added heat and stress on the CPU and other components may cause the computer to fail prematurely, or it may not be possible to overclock the CPU at all. In other cases, the computer may operate in a completely normal fashion. Overclocking typically voids a CPU's warranty. It is generally only possible to overclock a computer built from off-the-shelf parts; pre-assembled computers made by manufacturers such as Dell or HP cannot be overclocked.

Underclocking

It is also possible to underclock a processor by lowering the motherboard's FSB speed. Because lower clock speed results in lower heat output, underclocking is useful in a scenario where cooling is difficult -- because the computer is placed in an enclosed environment, for example -- and the full power of the processor is not required.

Locked and Unlocked Multipliers

Changing a motherboard's FSB speed affects all of the computer's components, while changing the CPU's multiplier affects only the CPU. Therefore, attempting to overclock a CPU by changing the multiplier has a much higher chance of success. Unfortunately, most CPUs have locked multipliers that cannot be adjusted. Some premium CPUs made for the enthusiast community have unlocked multipliers.

Tags: clock speed, motherboard speed, computer components, motherboard with, changing multiplier, Core i7-860

Tell If My Processor Meets A P4 Spec

Your processor is your PC's workhorse. It performs all the calculations, reading and interpreting the code of whatever program you're running. Ultimately, the speed of your computer is capped by the speed of your processor. The Pentium series is one of two major lines of processors available for PCs, and the Pentium 4 specifically is the benchmark by which many programs are set. If you would like to find out what type of processor you're using, the DirectX Diagnostic Tool can tell you.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" in the lower left-hand corner of your screen.

2. Click "Run." If "Run" is not available, click "Programs -> Accessories -> Command Prompt."

3. Type "dxdiag." Press "Enter," and the DirectX Diagnostic Tool will pop up.

4. Look for the entry titled "Processor," which can be found under the "System" tab. Beside this entry is a listing for your processor type. This will tell you if you have a Pentium 4, and it will also tell you the specific speed of your processor, such as 3.2 GHz.

Tags: speed your, your processor, Diagnostic Tool, DirectX Diagnostic, DirectX Diagnostic Tool

Reset Cmos In Aspire One A150s

The Aspire One A150 is a small form factor "Netbook" that features an Intel Atom N270 processor, Intel 945GSE Express chipset, up to 1 GB of DDR2 RAM, an integrated memory card reader and Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition preinstalled. The CMOS stores critical hardware profiles found within the computer's BIOS. The BIOS also contains technical data related to certain components installed on the computer. Resetting the CMOS will restore the BIOS to the factory default configuration.

Instructions

1. Power off your A150 if it is on.

2. Restart the computer and repeatedly press "F2" to enter the BIOS menu. Be sure to hit "F2" during the first few seconds after turning the computer on. If the Windows XP splash screen appears, restart the computer and attempt to enter the BIOS again.

3. Press the "F9" keyboard button to load the default configuration. Highlight "Yes" and press enter to confirm.

4. Press the "F10" key to save the BIOS settings and exit. After exiting the BIOS, the computer will boot normally.

Tags: default configuration, enter BIOS, press enter

Troubleshoot A Computer Power Supply

Troubleshoot a Computer Power Supply

The power supply is the computer's central nervous system. It converts electricity from the wall outlet into power a computer needs to run all of its components. If it is not working, the rest of the computer's components will stop working, too. Symptoms include not starting up at all, rebooting unexpectedly, not all components such as CD drives starting up, and components not functioning correctly. Remember that you are dealing with an electrical device and should use caution while troubleshooting.

Instructions

1. Exchange the existing power cable with a known working cable to check if you might need a new one. If the computer still does not turn on with the working cable, reinstall the original cable.

2. Move the computer to another wall outlet that is on a different circuit. If it still does not turn on, move it back to its original location.

3. Check the power supply for any burning odor that might indicate it has burned out.

4. Unplug the power from the back of the computer and use a screwdriver to take the side panel off the computer. Make sure that the power supply is connected to the computer's motherboard.

5. Note anything that is not ordinary, such as a popped or oozing capacitor on the computer's motherboard.

6. Check to see if other components appear burned out or broken. If everything looks all right, switch out the power supply with a working one and test it by turning your computer on.

Tags: computer motherboard, Computer Power, Computer Power Supply, does turn, power supply, Power Supply, power supply

Remove The Battery To Clear The Cmos

Removing the CMOS battery

There are times when it becomes necessary to clear the CMOS settings in your computer. You may have changed something in the CMOS that will not allow your computer to boot. This is especially true when an attempt has been made to overclock the computer to make it run faster. Most motherboards have a jumper that you can change to reset the CMOS, but it is small and can be a pain to work with. The easiest way to reset your CMOS settings is to remove the CMOS backup battery.

Instructions

1. Turn off the computer. Remove the power cord. Unplug any network or modem cables. Turn off your monitor, any printers, scanners, speakers or any other devices.

2. Remove the left side cover.

3. Find the CMOS battery on the motherboard. It is a silver disc about the size of a quarter. It is held in a plastic holder by a small metal clip. Before you remove the battery, touch an unpainted part of the case to eliminate any static buildup. Push down on the clip with a small flat-head screwdriver. While holding down the clip, flip out the battery with your fingertip.

Tags: CMOS battery, CMOS settings, down clip, your computer

Wire A 5v Led To A 9v Battery

LED's can be used with higher voltages by using a resistor wired in series.

Almost all standard light emitting diodes require a voltage of between 1.5 to 4-volts to operate. Connecting the light emitting diode (LED) to a higher voltage will normally quickly destroy the LED, by causing it to burn out. However, many electronics stores sell LEDs which are marked as five-volt, and these can be directly connected to a five-volt power supply without damage. Although these are normal LEDs, they have an in-built resistor which drops the voltage down from five-volts to the voltage required by the LED. Five-volt LEDs can be connected to a nine-volt battery, but an external resistor is also needed in order to drop the voltage to the five volts required.

Instructions

Calculate the Required Resistor Value

1. Find the current required for the LED from the LED packaging, or online from the manufacturer's material data sheet. This will be labeled as forward current and displayed in milliamps.

2. Calculate the resistor value using ohm's law, which states: voltage = current times resistance. The required voltage drop is four volts, as the battery provides nine volts and five volts is needed to power the LED. Putting the voltage drop and an example LED current of 20 milliamps into the equation gives: 4 = 0.02 x R. This can be rearranged as: R = 4 / 0.02 = 200 ohms. A 200-ohm resistor will be needed in series with the LED.

3. Calculate the required power rating for the resistor, using the formula: power = current times voltage. Putting the values into the equation above gives: power = 0.02 x 4 = 0.08 watts. Standard carbon resistors have a power rating of 0.25 watts, so 0.08 watts is well within their operating range.

Build the Circuit

4. Cut a piece of electrical wire to run between the positive terminal of the battery and the resistor. Remove a small amount of insulation from each end using the utility knife or wire strippers. Solder one end of the wire to a lead on the 200-ohm resistor.

5. Cut another piece of wire, and strip a small amount of insulation from each end. Solder one end of the wire to the free lead on the resistor and the other end to the positive connection on the LED.

6. Strip the insulation from the ends of a third piece of wire and solder one end to the negative connection on the LED. The other end will be connected to the negative terminal on the battery.

7. Connect the wire leading to the resistor to the positive terminal of the nine-volt battery, and the wire from the negative connection on the LED to the negative terminal of the battery. This causes the LED to light up, with the resistor protecting from the excess voltage.

Tags: insulation from, terminal battery, 200-ohm resistor, amount insulation, amount insulation from, current times, five volts

Specs For The Hp Pavilion Elite M9400t

HP released its Pavilion Elite M9400T in 2008 to desktop consumers. The PC was customizable, offering options for nearly every major component. As of November 2010, the computer is no longer available through the HP online store.

Cards, Chips and Drives

The HP Pavilion Elite M9400T contained an Intel Core 2 Quad processor, with options ranging from 2.4 to 2.66 gigahertz. It could have 2 to 8 gigabytes of DDR2 RAM and a 128-megabyte to 1-gigabyte graphics card. It was available with one or two hard drives, the former ranging from 320 to 750 gigabytes and the latter drives ranging from 320 to 500 gigabytes each. The primary optical drive was a 16X DVD(+/-) R/RW drive or a Blu-ray drive.

Input and Output

There were several high-definition output options such as VGA and DVI as well as standard-definition outputs; specifics depended on the graphics card selected by the consumer. There were microphone and headphone ports on the front and back of the tower, six USB ports, and standard mouse and keyboard ports.

Miscellaneous

Consumers had options of every Windows Vista version except Home Basic. The computer had six monitor options, all with integrated speakers. Productivity software options included Microsoft Works, Microsoft Office (trial and full versions) and Corel WordPerfect Office.

Preferential Options

Purely optional additions included a TV tuner, external speakers and hardware for Bluetooth connectivity. Consumers could also opt for a 56K modem and for wireless LAN 802.11 b/g/n options.

Tags: Pavilion Elite, ranging from, Elite M9400T, from gigabytes, graphics card, Pavilion Elite M9400T

Overclock An Amd Phenom 9600 & Asus 590 Sli Motherboard

The AMD Phenom 9600 series of computer processors are central processing units used in desktop PC models. The AMD Phenom 9600 is commonly used in conjunction with the ASUS 590 SLI motherboard. Overclocking a computer system speeds up the computer's components past their normal speed levels. Changing the system's BIOS settings overclocks both the AMD Phenom 9600 CPU and ASUS 590 motherboard. The downside to overclocking a system is the excess heat put off by the overclocked components, which may damage other computer components.

Instructions

1. Boot your computer and hold down the "F11" keyboard button to open the boot menu. Select the "BIOS" option and press "Enter."

2. Select "External Bus" in the BIOS menu and press "Enter." Select "Front Side Bus" and press the "Enter" button.

3. Press the up arrow key once to change the value selected in the pop-up menu that appears. Press "Enter" to accept the changed value. This sets a new front bus speed for the ASUS 590, allowing for faster processing speed.

4. Press the "Esc" button to exit the BIOS. Choose "Yes" to accept the changes, if prompted.

Tags: Phenom 9600, press Enter, ASUS motherboard, computer components, Enter Select, press Enter Select

Connect Buttkicker

A ButtKicker transducer is designed to increase low frequency perception.

ButtKicker modules are transducers designed to increase the perception of low frequency content, replacing or augmenting a traditional subwoofer. Most ButtKicker modules do not require the amount of power that a conventional subwoofer would need to reproduce the same frequencies at the same intensity level. In addition, those outside of the immediate listening area or seating position are virtually unaware of its existence.

Instructions

1. Access the rear of the home theater receiver or preamplifier. Locate the "SUB" out on the "PREOUT" cluster. Plug the RCA subwoofer cable into this jack, and run it to the corresponding RCA input jack on the back of the designated ButtKicker amplifier. If an existing subwoofer is present, connect the male end of both the RCA designated for the ButtKicker and the subwoofer to the two female ends of the Y adapter. Plug the single male end of the adapter into the "SUB" out on the rear of the receiver or preamplifier.

2. Determine the length of wire required to reach from the ButtKicker's amplifier to the module. Cut this length using the wire cutters. Strip 1/2-inch of insulation from each end of this wire using the wire strippers.

3. Unscrew the binding posts on the amplifier. Insert the speaker wires into the exposed post holes, with positive into the red terminal and negative into the black. It does not matter which wire is designated positive or negative, as long as the same protocol is followed at the ButtKicker end of the signal chain.

4. Flip over the couch or chair the ButtKicker module will be installed under. Drill a 3/16-inch hole in the center of each furniture leg. Place the leveling isolators included in the mounting kit dead center on the bottom of the leg, aligned with the holes. Use the included bolts and mini-wrench to secure the levelers.

5. Mount the ButtKicker module to the designated mounting bolt locations on the mounting plate. Use the included bolts and wrench to secure the BK module to the plate. Replace the couch or chair to its intended final location, and place the round rubber section of the mounting plate directly under the fourth leg of the piece.

6. Route the wire to the ButtKicker module. Make sure the wire is not trapped under the mounting plate with the furniture atop. Insert the positive speaker wire into the red terminal on the module; repeat for the negative wire and black terminal. Push in on the terminals to open it, insert the wires, then release to secure.

Tags: ButtKicker module, mounting plate, ButtKicker amplifier, ButtKicker modules, couch chair, designated ButtKicker

Overclock A Compaq Hp Presario

Hewlett Packard produces the Compaq Presario line of mobility laptops that use the Athlon XP-M series processor. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) manufacturers the Athlon processor in use for all Presario laptops. Like most AMD products, the Athlon XP-M processor can generally achieve speeds 25% greater then it ships with by modifying the clock multiplier. Laptops are notoriously hard to change physical jumpers and settings, but the Presario can be modified through third party software.

Instructions

1. Download the PhenomTweaker from Sourceforge. This program will allow you to adjust many of the internal jumper settings of your Compaq Presario without having to physically take it apart.

2. Install PhenomTweaker using the default settings to your Compaq Presario laptop. This means double left-clicking the PhenomTweaker program you downloaded, accepting the license agreement and confirming the default installation. Installation takes approximately 30 seconds.

3. Run the newly created PhenomTweaker shortcut that has been created on your desktop. If you chose not to create the shortcut, you may access the program directly through your Start Menu or navigating to where you installed the program.

4. Begin increasing the "Core Multiplier," for example from 10 to 11. This is located under the performance settings window of the PhenomTweaker. After each change, you will wait approximately 60 seconds to confirm the stability of your multiplier. If it is too high, the program will either reset your computer or default back to the previous multiplier.

5. Reset your computer after you have found a stable "Core Multiplier." This is accomplished through any of the normal means such as accessing the control panel (ctrl+alt+del) and selecting Reset. The next time your computer boots, it will use your new speed settings.

Tags: Compaq Presario, your computer, approximately seconds, Athlon XP-M, Core Multiplier

Clean Electrical Components

You must be careful when cleaning electronic components.

Electrical components work at their best when they are clean and dust-free. Connections and efficiency can be hindered by the presence of dirt or dust, yet clean electronic components can place the user in something of a quandary as electrical components can be dangerous when exposed to moisture.

Instructions

1. Ensure that any electronic components that you wish to clean are unplugged from the electrical source. The most dangerous thing you can attempt to do is clean an electrical part while it still has a current flowing through it.

2. Dust the surface of the electrical component with a small duster. Dust is one of the most common ways electrical components can become dirty, and dusting can make a lot of difference to the aesthetics and the effectiveness of your electronics.

3. Use a slightly damp, clean cloth to wipe down the electrical component. You do not want to drench it in water as it may still be wet when you plug it in again, but make the cloth damp enough to ensure it cleans away any dirt or dust.

4. To clean CDs or DVDs, pour a small amount of isopropyl alcohol cleaner onto a cloth and rub. Rub in gradual, circular motions until you have cleaned the whole surface of the disk. This will remove dirt, markings or fingerprints from the disk, and stop it from jumping or not playing properly.

5. You can clean television surfaces, MP3 players or touch screen phones by using a soft cloth and a small amount of ammonia-free glass cleaner to gently rub any dirt or dust away from the screen.

Tags: dirt dust, electronic components, dirt dust clean, dust clean, electrical component, electrical components

Different Agp Video Card Slots

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is a bus dedicated to the graphics of a computer as opposed to its predecessor PCI, which utilizes a shared bus that other components can use.

AGP Goes 64-bit

When 64-bit computing started to flourish, AGP fell behind as a 32-bit bus. According to the AGP8X Interface Specification, a new bus was drafted in 2001 that allowed for 64-bit graphics cards that used AGP to emerge in the market.

AGP Cards With More Power Needs

Eventually, graphics got more intense and, as a result, cards were hungry for more electrical power. AGP Pro was drafted to solve this issue and provide extra pins the cards will use for extra power.

Types

AGP slots can be classified by three types: 1.5 volt slots, 3.3 volt slots and universal slots. The universal type slots are the ones that can alternate between both voltages depending on what each individual card needs.

Identification of Universal Slots

Universal slots from standard AGP will have no separators inside them as the regulation of which kind of card fits inside is not necessary in standard universal AGP. In AGP Pro, universal slots have only two separators, which are there to ensure no one plugs in a standard AGP card by accident into an AGP Pro slot.

AGP Becomes Outdated

In 2004, AGP became a dying bus, abruptly being replaced by PCI Express, which was the latest innovation in computer bus technology. Card manufacturers continued creating AGP cards. But the public was more intent on getting its hands on the powerful PCIE cards replacing them in the market.

Tags: universal slots, volt slots

Tell If An Xbox Is Fried

A fried Xbox can ruin gameplay.

Problems with a video game console often seem to come about suddenly. One day your Xbox 360 works fine and the next day the images won't even appear. There are various issues that can cause this, and a common one is an overheated or "fried" console. You may suspect this is the case already, but there are a few steps you can take to determine this for sure.

Instructions

Outer Signs

1. Turn on the Xbox and try playing a game. If you are already in the middle of a game and experiencing problems, turn off the console and let it cool off. After it has cooled, turn it on again and try playing the game again: sometimes just restarting the Xbox will fix the problem. Make sure all cables are connected securely. If the system does not turn on at all, it has probably burned out completely.

2. Look at the images on the TV screen. Blurry, melted-looking, jagged images or other forms of distortion are all signs of an overheated or "fried" graphics card -- also known as a graphics chip or video card. Lines across the screen or in some cases, an entirely black screen are also signs. In this case, the graphics card has become loosened from its surroundings because of high temperatures, or the card itself has been damaged due to heat.

3. Place your palm on the top of the Xbox; If it is standing upright, place your palm on the side. The heat may be intense and it will be almost difficult to keep your palm down.

4. Look at the back of the console and listen for the fan. There will be a faint whirring sound if it is running. A broken fan is another sign of overheating.

Inner Signs

5. You can also open up the Xbox to look at the inside parts to see if they are fried, or even to attempt repairs. Unplug the Xbox and wait for it to cool. Flip it face-down on a flat surface. The side with stickers should now be facing up. Peel off the stickers.

6. Use the Size 20 Torx driver to remove the six small screws on the back. Four of them are under the rubber pads in each corner, but use the driver to wedge these pads up to expose the screws. Flip the box upright and shake it gently holding the sides until the bottom drops away from the cover.

7. The hard drive and disc drive are now exposed. Locate and remove the three small screws holding them down. Unplug the dark IDE cord from the hard drive and loosen the power cord that sits on top: It is not necessary that you unplug it. Lift out the hard drive.

8. Removing the IDE cable and the yellow cord from the now-exposed motherboard. Unscrew the two screws at the front of the disc drive. Lift out the disc drive.

9. The entire motherboard is now visible. Look around for heat damage, such as loose parts or even melted-looking areas. Look for a loose or damaged graphics card, as this will probably need to be replaced. The motherboard itself may need to be replaced. Make a list of the damage areas, so you know what parts you will need to fix it.

Tags: disc drive, graphics card, hard drive, your palm, cord from

Comparison Of Asus Vs Acer Netbooks

Taiwan-based computer technology companies ASUS and Acer Inc. provide a line-up of netbooks -- small, lightweight and less expensive versions of laptops -- from their Eee PC and Aspire One brands, respectively. The ASUS Eee PC was introduced in 2007, while the Acer Aspire One came along a year later. The offerings from both ASUS and Acer are more or less evenly matched, with each netbook sporting advantages over the other.

Operating System, Processor and Memory

Although both ASUS and Acer netbooks are primarily based on the Windows operating system from Microsoft, a few ASUS machines use the GNU Linux platform instead. Most Eee PCs and Aspire Ones use the Atom processor, which is from a brand semiconductor company Intel Corp. introduced in 2008 for use on netbooks; a few ASUS and Acer netbooks use Intel Celeron or Advanced Micro Devices' Athlon/Fusion chips, respectively. The maximum system memory capacity of the Aspire One is 4GB; some ASUS netbooks match that capacity, while others can only handle up to 2GB.

Storage and Multimedia

The Serial Advanced Technology Attachment-connected hard disk drive on the ASUS netbook can be up to 320GB. The maximum data storage on the Acer netbook is higher, at 500GB. ASUS, however, offers the choice of getting a netbook with a solid state drive, which, while not offering as much space due to being more expensive per GB, is a quieter and sturdier form of data storage than the SATA-attached disk drive. For video and graphics, most ASUS and Acer netbooks use an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator, although the AMD technology-based Aspire Ones use a Radeon HD graphics processor instead. Also included is a 0.3- or 1.3-megapixel Web camera.

Networking and Communications

Both the ASUS Eee PC and Acer's Aspire One have an Ethernet driver for wired local area networking. It provides a peak data transfer rate of 100 megabits per second; some Eee PCs have a much faster 1,000Mbps connection instead. A Wi-Fi card that complies with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 802.11b/g/n standards supplies the wireless LAN capability. Some netbooks get Bluetooth 3.0 wireless technology as well.

Size and External Connectors

ASUS, at the time of publication, offers four netbook screen sizes: 7 inches, 8.9 inches, 10.2 inches and 12.1 inches. The Acer netbook, on the other hand, is available only as a 10.1-inch computer. The external interfaces on each netbook include three USB 2.0 ports, RJ-45 jack for the Ethernet, Video Graphics Array port for connecting an external display, headphone and microphone jacks, and flash memory card slot.

Tags: ASUS Acer, ASUS Acer netbooks, inches inches, Acer Aspire, Acer netbook, Acer netbooks, Acer netbooks Intel

Replace Socket 462

The Socket 462 processor is old but still capable.

Central processing units (CPUs) are the brains of a computer. All the calculations of a program are performed by the CPU. The CPU connects to the rest of the computer through a socket on the motherboard. Socket 462, also known as Socket A, is the socket used to attach the AMD K7 family of processors. The processor itself is sometimes referred to as the socket that it attaches to. Replacing a Socket 462 processor must be done carefully to avoid bending the pins.

Instructions

1. Unplug the fan power connector. It will be plugged into a power socket on the motherboard. You can find this socket by tracing the wire that is attached to the CPU fan.

2. Unlatch the fan/heat sink combination from the motherboard by carefully pulling one of the metal strips off the nylon socket. The fan/heat sink combination will pop up slightly and can now be easily pulled free.

3. Lift the lever arm on the side of the Socket 462 to release the CPU.

4. Pull the CPU free.

5. Replace the CPU with the replacement Socket 462 processor. Be careful to line up the pins in the hole precisely, or they may bend when you close the lever arm.

6. Close the lever arm to fasten the processor in place.

7. Attach the fan/heat sink combination by attaching one side of the metal band to the nylon socket and pressing the heat sink against the processor. Then press the other side of the metal band firmly against the socket to create a strong attachment.

8. Plug in the fan power cable. The replacement is now complete.

Tags: heat sink, heat sink combination, sink combination, Socket processor, metal band

Set Video Memory From System Ram

You can manually configure the amount of RAM your computer uses for video functions.

Your computer uses video memory to display graphics. Some computers have a graphics card that performs this work; other computers have an integrated graphics chip built onto the motherboard and do not require a separate graphics card. In this case, the system's RAM memory is shared between the needs of the graphics chip and all other functions on the computer, such as running the CPU. You can manually set the amount of memory allocated from system RAM by adjusting the appropriate settings in the BIOS setup menu.

Instructions

1. Reboot your computer from the Start menu or by pressing the restart button.

2. Access the BIOS options by pressing the appropriate key while the computer is booting. The key you'll press depends on the make and model of your computer but generally will be the Delete, Num Lock, F8, F10 or F12 key. Refer to the user manual for your computer for specific details.

3. Highlight the "Integrated Peripherals" menu by using the arrow keys to navigate and then press the "Enter" key.

4. Select the "AGP aperture size" option and press "Enter." This option might instead be labeled as "Accelerated Graphics Port aperture size" so something similar.

5. Set the desired amount of shared video memory (may be labeled as "shared video RAM") from this screen. The maximum limit will be indicated near this setting and will never be more than half of your overall system memory.

6. Select "Save Settings and Exit" and then press "Enter" to go back to the BIOS menu menu screen.

7. Select "Exit" and press "Enter" to leave BIOS setup and your computer will reboot. The new shared memory settings will take effect automatically.

Tags: your computer, press Enter, aperture size, BIOS setup, computer uses, computer uses video

Replace An Original Xbox Cpu

Replace an Original XBox CPU

Video game consoles are essentially self-contained computers specifically designed to play games. Game consoles, such as the Xbox, contain all the standard computer parts including a hard drive, optical drive, graphics card and CPU. You can replace the original Xbox CPU with a processor designed to fit the unit by partially disassembling your Xbox. If you have previous experience with computer parts this can be a straightforward task. However, replacing the original Xbox CPU can be quite complex if you are unfamiliar with computer hardware.

Instructions

1. Unplug all cables from the Xbox system. Turn the system upside down and lay it on your workspace.

2. Peal back the silver sticker next to the warranty sticker and the bar code sticker on the bottom of the Xbox, exposing the two screws below them. Remove the screws using a Torx #20 screwdriver.

3. Remove the four rubber feet at each corner of the Xbox. Remove the screws from below each of the rubber feet using the Torx #20 screwdriver.

4. Turn the Xbox upright and grasp the sides of the console firmly. Shake the console gently and lift up to remove the top cover from the Xbox system.

5. Lift up the silver ribbon IDE cable and remove the screw below it that secures the hard drive in place. Remove the two screws that secure the DVD drive, located near the front of the drive, one on each side.

6. Disconnect the IDE cable and power cable from the hard drive and lift the unit out. Note that you can leave the power cord connected to the hard drive if you wish; it is long enough that you can position the drive right outside of the Xbox while you work.

7. Disconnect the yellow power cable and IDE cable from the DVD drive. Lift the drive straight up to remove it.

8. Locate the metal heatsink directly under the hard drive. Disconnect the power cable from the motherboard. Unclip the black pressure tab on top of the heatsink by pulling it towards the front of the Xbox. Lift the heatsink directly off the CPU.

9. Remove the CPU by pulling it directly out of the socket. Be careful that you do not damage the pins on the bottom of the processor if you intend to reuse it.

10. Replace the CPU with a processor designed to fit the Xbox socket.

11. Apply Arctic Silver to the top of the CPU using a wide flat surface, such as an old credit card, to smooth it over. Clean any excess Arctic Silver off the CPU using a cotton swab.

12. Reassemble the Xbox system, following disassembly instructions in reverse.

Tags: hard drive, cable from, power cable, Remove screws, Xbox system, Arctic Silver

Get Free Music Recording Software (Digital Recording Studio)

Home Recording Studio Software - Totally Free!

Kristal Audio Engine is a genius program loaded with tons of effects, equalizers, chorusing, digital preamp tweaks, and virtually infinite track recording and editing capabilities. Kristal Audio can be compared to software in the $500 - $1000 range, yet this studio freeware costs nothing for personal use.

Instructions

1. Navigate towards the bottom of this page, in the "Resources" section, click on "Go to Kreatives.org" (you can also download the software via this page by clicking on the "Download Kristal Audio Engine For Windows" link - doing this lets you skip steps 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7).

2. (Downloading From the Kreatives site is fairly involved so I highly recommend downloading Kristal Audio via the link on this page rather than from their web site. I do however recommend visiting the Kreatives site to help better understand the program and its creator.) If you do want to give it a shot, follow steps 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.

3. Click the "Download" link in the top portion of Kreatives.org.

4. Click the "Download KRISTAL" link (you will be redirected to simtel.net).

5. As soon as you complete step 4, you will need to act quickly!!! While the simtel.net page is loading you will see the message "The download site for Kristal Audio Engine is currently being contacted..." Before the site transfers you, you need to click the blue lettered "Kristal Audio Engine" portion of that text or you most likely won't be directed to the proper page for downloading the program. If you miss clicking it, repeat from step 4.

6. If you did everything right you should see a page clearly displaying download information for Kristal Audio Engine 1. Click on the green "download now" button at the upper mid area of the screen.

7. You will be redirected as before in step 5, but this time a box should pop up prompting you to download the setup file. Click save!

8. Follow the setup prompts to complete software installation.

9. Assuming everything went smoothly, you should now be ready to record a platinum album and blow minds worldwide with your digitally recorded music!!!

Tags: Kristal Audio, Audio Engine, Kristal Audio Engine, this page, Click Download

Remove The Motherboard From A Dv6000

Replace the motherboard to start enjoying the computer again.

Remove the motherboard from an HP Pavilion DV6000 notebook computer system to upgrade the processor, reset the BIOS password or replace faulty components. Access to the motherboard is gained through the keyboard compartment and by the removal of the lower chassis case from the notebook. Changing a motherboard in any notebook computer typically requires an exact replacement board that can often be obtained directly from the manufacturer or from one of many alternate parts depots.

Instructions

1. Back up any existing files on the computer and then remove any disc in the optical drive, power the system down and remove the power cable and any other cables or devices plugged into the DV6000 notebook.

2. Close the lid and flip the notebook upside down. Slide the battery release latch to the left and hold it in place while lifting the battery out of the system.

3. Loosen the two screws that hold the memory compartment cover in place and lift the edge of the cover and remove it from the system. Spread the two metal tabs that hold the memory module in place until the module pops up to a 45-degree angle and then slide the module out of the slot. Disconnect the two wireless antenna cables from the wireless module located in the same compartment.

4. Loosen the two screws that hold the hard drive compartment cover in place and lift the edge of the cover and remove it from the system. Grasp the Mylar tab and lift and pull the hard drive out of the system, being careful not to damage the connectors or impact the drive.

5. Remove the screws located on the bottom of the laptop, keeping them organized in a way to allow each one to be put back where it came from upon reassembly. Straighten out one end of the paper clip and insert it into the small hole next to the "Eject" button on the optical drive and push until the drive tray releases from the drive. Pull the optical drive out of the system.

6. Remove the three small screws from inside the battery compartment. Turn the DV6000 notebook right side up and open the lid as far as it will go. Insert the edge of the credit card or plastic butter knife under the edge of the switch cover near the screen and work along the edge until the switch cover can be removed and swiveled onto the keyboard. Release the connector that holds the ribbon cable in place and slide the ribbon cable out of the connector.

7. Lift the edge of the keyboard nearest the screen up slightly and pull it toward the screen about an inch. Flip the keyboard over onto the palm rest and release the connector that holds the keyboard cable to the motherboard.

8. Disconnect the speaker assembly cable and remove the two screws holding the assembly in place.

9. Close the lid and flip the computer upside down. Remove the screws on the rear of the computer holding the display module in place. Turn the computer right side up. Open the lid perpendicular to the computer and remove the display cable, microphone cable and camera cable from the motherboard. Remove the wireless antenna cables from the top cover channel. Remove the two screws that hold the hinges in place, supporting the display module to avoid letting it drop.

10. Remove any remaining screws that hold the top cover to the trim cover and remove the cover from the computer.

11. Remove the Bluetooth assembly and the ExpressCard assembly by disconnecting the cables from the motherboard and removing the screws that hold them in place. Remove the screws that hold the USB port in place and disconnect the two cables that attach the USB port to the motherboard. Remove the USB cable from the clips that hold it in the chassis and disconnect the other end from the motherboard.

12. Remove the screws that hold the motherboard in place and raise the edge of the system board slightly, and then pull the board away from the port connectors that protrude through the chassis and remove the board from the system.

Tags: that hold, screws that, screws that hold, Remove screws, cables from

Find The Model Of My Laptop Computer

Find the model of your laptop computer.

A laptop has a make and a model just like a car. The make is the computer manufacturer's name, while the model is the product identifier that differentiates your computer from all of the others that the manufacturer produces. There are several simple and quick ways that you can find out the model of your laptop computer.

Instructions

1. Open the laptop and check the area near the keyboard first. Manufacturers commonly print the computer model (such as Inspiron 6000 for a Dell computer) on or near the keyboard.

2. Close the laptop and flip it over to read the back. Look for the laptop computer model name printed on the product tag, which also contains a bar code.

3. Check the bottom of your laptop for a service tag or similar number. Log onto your laptop manufacturer's website, go to the support area and enter your service tag number. This will bring up complete data about the model name of the laptop, as well as the date of manufacture and warranty information.

4. Click the "Start" menu, go to "Accessories" and then "System Tools" (applies to Windows systems). Select "System Information" to bring up a dialog box listing complete information about your laptop, including the "System Model."

Tags: your laptop, laptop computer, computer model, model name, model your, model your laptop, near keyboard

Find Memory Banks On An Hp Pavilion Notebook Zv500 Motherboard

Locate the memory slots on an HP Pavilion ZV500 laptop computer.

Installing additional memory in your Pavilion ZV500 is the most cost-effective upgrade you can perform on the laptop. Additional memory speeds up all aspects of your laptop's performance and costs much less than a new processor.

Before you can install the new memory, however, you will need to know where the memory banks or slots in the Pavilion ZV500 are located. You can find the memory slots in a couple of minutes.

Instructions

1. Shut down the laptop and power it off. Remove the AC adapter.

2. Flip the laptop over so that it is upside down. Slide the battery release latch for the battery to the "Unlocked" position. Slide the battery out of the bay to remove it.

3. Locate the memory slot cover on the bottom of the laptop. The access cover will have a small picture of a memory module printed on it. The slot cover is located next to the battery bay.

4. Remove the retaining screw that holds the memory slot cover in place. Remove the slot cover. The memory banks are now visible.

Tags: slot cover, Pavilion ZV500, Locate memory, memory slot, memory slot cover

Adjust Screen Brightness In Windows Xp

Adjust Screen Brightness in Windows XP

Adjusting screen brightness can help you conserve battery life and save energy on your laptop or computer. It also allows you to view and display information on your screen more clearly by making the screen brighter overall. Adjusting screen brightness can be done in a few steps on Windows XP, as the system groups it with other energy-saving settings. The method will vary based on your monitor, though the steps will be similar.

Instructions

1. Step 1

Navigate to the Control Panel from the Windows XP Start menu.

2. Step 2

Choose "Appearance and Themes" when prompted in the "Category View" panel. If you're in "Classic View," choose the "Display" icon.

3. Step 3

Select the "Settings" tab from the Display Properties window.

4. Step 4

Select the "Advanced" button on the bottom of the window. This will take you to your monitor's properties.

5. Step 5

Choose the "Color" tab if using a monitor with an ATI graphics card.

6. Step 6

Select the brightness scale and push or pull it until you are satisfied with the brightness of your screen.

7. Step 7

Press "OK" to set your brightness.

Tags: Step Select, Adjust Screen, Adjust Screen Brightness, Adjusting screen, Adjusting screen brightness

What Is An Intel Chipset

motherboard with processor, north bridge, south bridge, processor and memory slots

An Intel chipset is a computer component housed on motherboards compatible with Intel brand processors. The chipset consists of two chips, the northbridge and the southbridge, that control communication between the processor, memory, peripherals and other components attached to the motherboard. According to Ron White, author of "How Computers Work," the chipset is second only to the processor in determining the performance and capabilities of a PC (See Reference 1)

Northbridge Function

The northbridge, sometimes referred to as Graphics and AGP Memory Controller (GMCH) on some Intel machines, works with the graphics card to relieve the processor of some of the burden of high-demand operations associated with video editing and gaming software. It also links the processor to the Random Access Memory (RAM) modules installed on the motherboard, thus providing the processor with the data it needs to execute the instructions needed by any application in use. The northbridge synchronizes the operation of all the above-mentioned devices by controlling the main pathway between them, the "front side bus." (See Reference 2)

Southbridge Function

Unlike the northbridge, the southbridge, or, in some cases, the I/O Controller Hub (ICH), is not directly connected to the processor. It coordinates the function of slower hardware devices; enabling the hard drive, mouse, keyboard, USB and FireWire devices to communicate with the northbridge as needed by software demands. The southbridge also controls fans, temperature sensors and the BIOS. The main difference between a traditional southbridge and the ICH used in some Intel chipsets is that the ICH controls the PCI bus; a pathway used to communicate with hardware devices (controlled by the northbridge in other configurations). Also, the bus used to transfer data to and from the ICH is twice as fast as that of a conventional southbridge. (See Reference 2)

Considerations

The chipset is the most limiting factor in a computer's upgrading potential. It determines what models and speeds of CPU and the type and amount of RAM that can be installed. It also dictates the user's options in terms of graphics cards, sound cards and number of USB ports. Lower end Intel motherboards often include an integrated graphics card that cannot be changed. Higher end motherboards include graphics card slots and chipsets designed to work with different cards.

Data Protection

For those using more than one hard drive, some of Intel's Express Chipsets include a "Matrix Storage Technology" that stores copies of data on multiple drives. Thus, a drive can fail without data loss. (See Reference 3)

High Definition Audio

As of mid-2010, the latest Intel Express Chipsets utilize a High Definition audio interface for decoding and encoding digital and analogue sound signals. The interface is capable of handling up to eight channels of audio, resulting in higher quality surround sound with multiple channels. Intel's HD Audio also allows one computer to play two or more different audio streams in different locations simultaneously. (See Reference 4)

Security

Certain Express chipsets allow users to enable and disable individual USB ports and SATA hard drive ports.This feature helps prevent malicious use of USB ports and the unauthorized addition or removal of data to or from the hard drives. (See Reference 5)

Tags: graphics card, hard drive, some Intel, communicate with, data from

Build A Super Computer

A super computer is a cluster of two or more computers connected via a networking protocol. The cluster is used to distribute task workload between computers and to provide a fail-safe system to keep a high level of system availability. Familiarity with building computers and installing and customizing operating systems, networks and software is required before building a super computer.

Instructions

1. Install the same operating system on the computers to be used for the super computer. Windows NT and Windows 2000 are stable operating systems to use for a Windows-based cluster.

2. Connect the computers for the super computer to a local area network (LAN) hub or switch.

3. Install a cluster management service and communication software on the computer that will serve as the master computer in the cluster. The Message Passing Interface (MPI) is a stable and easy-to-use software for this task. MPICH is a free version of MPI and can be found at the MPICH home page.

4. Extract the software package to a new folder on the main hard drive of your master computer. Copy the ".dll" files from the new folder to the Windows system 32 folder on the main hard drive.

5. Run the ".bat" file for the software to install the cluster management service and communication software.

6. Repeat Step 4 on all other computers in the cluster.

7. Execute the "shell" program found in the new folder on the master computer to detect all other computers in the cluster. Assign each computer a unique address. The super computer is ready to test and use.

Tags: master computer, super computer, cluster management, cluster management service, communication software

Asus M4a Ethernet Port Is Not Working

On an ASUS M4A motherboard is a built-in network interface controller that enables the computer to connect to the Internet. Attached to the NIC is an Ethernet port. Modems and routers can connect to this port, providing network access to the PC as a result. Problems with the NIC or its settings, however, can prevent the ASUS M4A from connecting to the Internet.

Hardware Setup

The ASUS M4A features a simple program, called the BIOS Setup Utility, that enables users to change the computer's hardware parameters. These parameters are stored to a non-volatile random access memory chip, called the complementary metal-oxide semiconductor. The basic input/output system, a low-level software that controls the ASUS M4A and its hardware, configures the system based upon the parameters stored in the CMOS. On the Onboard Devices Configuration screen, accessible from the Advanced tab, is an option called Onboard LAN Controller. If the option is disabled, the Ethernet port will stop working. Re-enable the option to restore function to the NIC.

Software Setup

Microsoft Windows also controls how the NIC behaves. Network Connections, accessible from the Control Panel, provides options to reconfigure the NIC or turn the component on or off. Windows assigns the label Local Area Connection to the NIC. If the icon associated with Local Area Connection is grayed out, the network adapter is turned off. Select the device, then click "Enable This Network Device" to turn the adapter on. Right-click the "Local Area Connection," and then click "Properties." Confirm that "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" is checked. If this option is left unselected, the computer won't connect to websites.

Device Drivers

Device drivers, or software drivers, link together the ASUS M4A and its connected hardware. Drivers serve as a communication channel between the OS and the hardware; the OS sends data to the driver, which the driver then transfers to the hardware. The hardware performs a specific task based on the data it receives. If the device driver for the NIC is not working, the OS won't recognize the adapter and the Ethernet port won't work. You can check the status of the device driver in Device Manager, accesible from the Control Panel. If the Device Status field shows a message other than "This Device Is Working Properly," search for the error at Microsoft Support to find a fix for the problem.

Defective Hardware

Problems with the NIC itself can occur if the part of the board that contains the component is damaged. Electrostatic discharge, a form of static electricity that people sometimes produce when working on carpeted areas, can damage sections of the motherboard. If you recently handled the motherboard without first grounding yourself, you may have inadvertantly harmed the board with ESD, rendering the NIC - and its connected Ethernet port - nonfunctional. Motherboards can also come with manufacturing defects that cause components to wear out early. If you suspect that the motherboard itself is defective, you can install a replacement NIC to one of the expansion ports on the board. Disable the onboard LAN so that the new NIC doesn't interfere with the integrated one.

Tags: Ethernet port, Area Connection, Local Area, Local Area Connection, accessible from

Overclock An Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550

Central Processing Units (CPUs) are small devices integrated into all modern computer systems. A processor like the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 works for a computer in the same way a brain works for a human, processing data, performing calculations, and helping the computer perform tasks. The speed of a processor, just like the speed of a human's brain, determines the capabilities of a computer. Use a process called overclocking to increase the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550's speed and improve computer performance.

Instructions

1. Boot or restart the PC containing the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 processing device. Press "F11" during bootup to enter the boot menu. Choose "BIOS" from the choices presented on-screen.

2. Select the option named "External Bus." In "External Bus" select "Front Side Bus" or "Bus Speed," depending on the system. Highlight the number in the data field and press enter. Press up on the arrow key once to change the setting to the entry above the default. This changes the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550's front bus speed setting, increasing its speed.

3. Select the option named "CPU Core." In "CPU Core," select "Multiplier." Highlight the number in the data field and press enter. Press up on the arrow key to raise the setting by 1. This raises the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550's front bus frequency multiplier.

4. Move to the primary boot menu. Highlight the "Save and Quit" or "Exit and Save" option and press "Enter."

Tags: Core Quad, Core Quad Q9550, Intel Core, Intel Core Quad, Quad Q9550, boot menu

Partition 1 Terabyte

A one terabyte hard drive can store up to 1,000 gigabytes or 1,000,000,000,000 bytes of information. By partitioning your computer's one terabyte hard drive, you can split your computer's hard drive into multiple pieces of any size. Windows 7 has a Computer Management feature that allows you to create these partitions and divide your computer's hard drive into multiple parts.

Instructions

1. Restart your computer and log on to windows as an administrator. When the Windows sign-on screen appears, select an account that has administrator privileges. By default, there is a Windows profile labeled "Administrator." The password for this profile is "Password." If your Windows sign-on has only one account, this account by default is an administrator account.

2. Click the Windows Start button. The Start button is generally located in the lower-left corner of your Windows screen.

3. Select "Control Panel" and click the "System and Security" option.

4. Click "Administrative Tools."

5. Double-click the "Computer Management" option. A Computer Management window will automatically open.

6. Find the "Disk Management" option located under the "Storage" subsection on the left side of the Computer Management window. On the right side of the Computer Management window you will find a graphical representation of your computer's hard drive. This graphical representation will show the allocated (used) portion of your hard drive and the unallocated (unused) portion of the drive.

7. Right-click on the unallocated portion of the hard drive.

8. Click the "New Simple Volume" option. The New Simple Volume Wizard will automatically open in a new window.

9. Click the "Next" button.

10. Type the size of the partition you want to create in the text box. Express the size in megabytes (MB).

11. Select a letter of the alphabet as a name for your new partition and click the "Next" button.

12. Click the "Next" button and then click the "Finish" button to save your settings and create the partition on your hard drive.

Tags: hard drive, Computer Management, your computer, computer hard, computer hard drive

Remove The Keyboard From The Dell Xps M1330

The Dell XPS M1330 is a laptop computer with a 13.3-inch "TrueLife" LCD screen. The XPS M1330 has an Intel Core 2 Duo or Celeron processor and a base amount of 1 GB of memory. If you have owned this computer since Dell first released it, you may now find that the keyboard exhibits problems stemming from sustained use. If the keyboard of your Dell XPS M1330 fails to register keypresses or the letters are worn from the oils in your fingers, you can replace it with a new keyboard to regain the crisp feel that the computer once had.

Instructions

1. Turn the XPS M1330 off and remove the AC adapter along with all peripherals. Turn the computer over.

2. Push and hold the battery locking tab, and slide the battery out of the XPS M1330.

3. Unscrew the two Phillips screws from the inside of the XPS M1330 battery compartment, and set the screws aside. Turn the M1330 over and open the display.

4. Slide the two plastic caps between the screen hinges and keyboard away from the center of the XPS M1330 to remove them.

5. Lift the black button panel above the keyboard away from the XPS M1330 to reveal the Phillips screws underneath. Place the panel on top of the keyboard. Note that a cable under the keyboard connects the button panel to the computer, so the panel cannot be removed before the keyboard.

6. Unscrew the two Phillips screws anchoring the top of the XPS M1330 keyboard to the computer. Push the keyboard toward the screen until you can see the bottom of the keyboard come out from under the palm rest. Lift the keyboard up until you can see the cable underneath.

7. Raise the locking bar on the XPS M1330 keyboard cable connector, and slide the cable out. Set the keyboard aside.

8. Slide the cable for the replacement XPS M1330 keyboard into the connector and lower the locking bar. Place the keyboard into the computer and replace the two Phillips screws.

9. Lower the button panel into its original position and replace the plastic caps between the screen hinges and keyboard. Close the screen and turn the XPS M1330 over.

10. Replace the Phillips screws in the battery compartment and slide the battery back in.

Tags: Phillips screws, button panel, Dell M1330, M1330 keyboard, away from, battery compartment

Overclock The E2200 On Stock Speeds

If you want to increase the speed of your computer, you can overclock your processor. When you overclock a processor, such as the E2200, you increase the clock speed from the stock speed of the processor. As you increase the speeds, your overall processing power will increase. Overclocking may void your warranty, so proceed at your own risk.

Instructions

1. Restart your computer.

2. Press "Del" as your computer starts up. This will enter the basic input output settings (BIOS). The BIOS is where basic computer configurations are stored and where you can amend the clock speeds.

3. Browse through the BIOS using the arrow keys until you get to "Advanced Options."

4. Scroll down to the "CPU Clock Ratio" (sometimes called "Clock Multiplier"). This will be represented by an "X" (for example, "21 X," which means that it multiplies the bus speed by 21).

5. Press "Page Up" to increase the value. Press "F10" to exit and save the BIOS. If your system runs smoothly, you can try to increase the multiplier a little more. You should increase the amount incrementally --- this way your system will have less chance of failing.

Tags: your computer, This will, your system

Overclock A Socket 478

You can overclock a socket 478 via its BIOS.

People who overclock a computer system want to increase the speed of the machine. Usually, computer users focus on overclock a computer's CPU (central processing unit). When you overclock a CPU, it lets you experience a big increase in speed as well as video graphics without the need to perform any hardware upgrades. If you want to overclock a socket 478, you can do so via the BIOS of its motherboard.

Instructions

1. Turn off your laptop or desktop. Reboot your computer while pressing the "Delete" button to go into your BIOS.

2. Go to "Frequency." Configure your RAM to the "Unlinked" option. This enables only your CPU, rather than your system RAM to overclock.

3. Go to "CPU Clock Speed" and then "FSB." Then, click "External Clock" to find the "Front Side Bus" of your CPU.

4. Increase your "Front Side Bus" in tiny portions such as in values of five. Save your changes via your "F10" function.

5. Reboot your machine and load your operating system. Verify the stability of the overclock process via a video game you enjoy. This causes your system to use more resources than it would normally. If you do not notice a difference in speed, restart your machine once more into BIOS mode, and continue to increase your Front Side Bus value until you feel comfortable with the results.

Tags: Front Side, increase speed, overclock computer, overclock socket, overclock socket BIOS

Reset Bios On An Hp Pavilion Dv6000

The Hewlett-Packard Pavilion DV6000 is part of HP's line of entertainment-focused notebook computers. The DV6000 uses a basic input/output system, or BIOS, to regulate basic hardware settings and functions. The BIOS relies on a small battery connected to the motherboard to save its settings when the computer is turned off. Remove the battery temporarily to reset the BIOS back to its factory settings.

Instructions

1. Turn the DV6000 computer off. Turn the unit over so the bottom is facing up.

2. Remove the two small screws that hold the memory module cover in place. Lift up the side of the cover that the screws connect to. Swing the cover to the right to disconnect it. Set the cover aside.

3. Pull up the battery cable connector to unhook it from the motherboard. Leave the battery cable connector disconnected for at least 30 minutes.

4. Connect the battery cable connector back into its socket.

5. Replace the memory module cover. Replace the two screws that hold the cover in place.

Tags: battery cable, battery cable connector, cable connector, cover place, memory module

What Is A Spdif Cable

SPDIF cables may decrease the loss in quality experienced when playing CDs.

An SPDIF cable is a means of transmitting audio signals using the SPDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format) protocol. SPDIF cables offer features not associated with standard audio cables and are commonly supported by high-end audio products.

Background

The SPDIF format got its name because of the two major companies that helped design it, Sony and Philips. The design was intended to allow for the transfer of a digital audio signal from one device to another. SPDIF cables are capable of transferring signals to any compatible device that supports stereo digital audio, including CD and DVD players and PC audio cards.

Function

When a device such as a CD player uses standard audio cables to output its signal to other devices, it converts the signal to analog before ever leaving the original device. This method results in a loss of audio quality upon playback. With an SPDIF cable, the signal is transported from the original device in digital quality and is transferred to analog by the receiving device.

Additional Information

Many new digital audio components being manufactured in 2010 come equipped with special jacks to use SPDIF cables but not all devices support them. Converters are available that will allow you to use SPDIF cables with standard audio jacks.

Tags: SPDIF cables, digital audio, standard audio, with standard audio, audio cables

Reset A Jumper On Your Motherboard

On the motherboard of desktop computers, there is a jumper that is used to reset the system BIOS settings. This jumper has only two different positions, and changing the position will erase everything from the BIOS, including a BIOS password that has been forgotten. Once reset, you will have to change any settings in your BIOS to what they were previously. The longest part of resetting the jumper is getting to it. Once you have the case apart and you gained access, you will be able to reset the jumper in just a few seconds.

Instructions

1. Shut down and unplug everything from the computer.

2. Ground yourself using the grounding strap and unscrew the computer case. Take the case apart, giving you access to the motherboard.

3. Locate the jumper nearest to the BIOS battery, which will look like a large round watch battery.

4. Pull the jumper from the posts that it is on and place it on the middle post and post on the opposite end. Count to 30.

5. Replace the jumper to its original position on the posts. Close the computer case and replace the screws. Plug all cables and components back into the computer and power it on.

Tags: case apart, computer case, everything from

Disable Write Protection In Foxconn

Foxconn International Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of the Taiwanese company Hon Hai Precision Industries Co Ltd., manufactures motherboards, graphics cards and other computer hardware devices.

Integrated into motherboards is the basic input/output system (BIOS), a flash memory chip that stores the computer's hardware configuration. "Write Protection" or "Write Protect" protects the BIOS from a virus attack, but can simultaneously prevent you from upgrading your BIOS to the latest version. Users can disable this option in the CMOS Setup Utility.

Instructions

1. Power on the computer. Press "Del" to launch the CMOS Setup Utility.

2. Use the directional pad to highlight "Advanced BIOS Features." Press "Enter" to open the menu.

3. Scroll to the option "BIOS Write Protect." Use the "+" and "-" keys to change the value to "Disabled."

4. Press "Esc" to return to the main menu. Select "Save Changes and Exit." Press "Enter" to exit from the BIOS and disable write protection on your Foxconn motherboard.

Tags: CMOS Setup, CMOS Setup Utility, computer hardware, Press Enter, Setup Utility, Write Protect

Build A Gaming Laptop

Laptop's can be a great portable gaming station if you know build one. Here is build a gaming laptop.

Instructions

1. What game?

When building a gaming laptop there are certain things you must consider. The first thing you must think about is what video games would you like to play on your laptop. Then after you have thought about what games you want to play, pick the game with the most system requirements to play. You will want to build your laptop to handle your most intense video game. If you build it to handle the one with the least requirements, it can be very difficult to play a more intense game on your laptop.

2. Requirements.

On computer games there are requirements on them that tell you what you will need to run them. Some are very small and some are very large. You will see two types of requirements, minimum and recommended. Using the minimum requirements on computer games can make it very difficult to enjoy a video game. Even though the computer game will run, it can be extremely slow. So for a great gaming experience you will want to build your computer with at least the recommended requirements or better.

3. Video card.

Buying a great video card is very important when building a gaming laptop. This is because it will handle the graphics for you. You will want to get a powerful video card to handle power games on your laptop. Then you will want to buy the other parts accordingly. Do not just buy an amazing video card and a decent CPU, motherboard, etc. You will want all of your parts you plan on using to be just as good. If not, you could sacrifice some of your gaming experience.

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What Components Do You Need To Build A Computer

Some components are necessary for all computers.

Computers keep getting less expensive as time progresses, as well as requiring fewer components to build a complete system. Today's desktop computer no longer has a separate peripheral card for every component. Instead, nearly all components are integrated on the motherboard, which reduces overall cost. Only special peripherals still require their own add-on cards.

Motherboard and CPU

All computers, whether they are desktops, laptops or servers, require a motherboard. The choice of motherboard depends on the required features and your budget. Most motherboards for desktop computers include integrated sound, video and network cards, though this was not the case about 15 years ago, when each would have a dedicated card. Some motherboards come bundled with the central processing unit, or CPU. If the CPU does not come with a motherboard, be sure that the CPU uses the same type of socket as the motherboard you want to use.

RAM

After choosing a motherboard, be sure to choose compatible random access memory (RAM), which will be either DDR2 or DDR3. While 4GB memory modules are offered, many motherboards cannot accept modules larger than 2GB each. Fortunately, RAM prices continue to fall. Additionally, advances in memory technology continually increase RAM speed with features such as dual-channel operation.

Case and Power Supply

A motherboard needs a case in which you can install it. Your choice of computer case is mostly a personal aesthetic one. Though there are different sized motherboards, most of them will fit in any case. The exception is a "full ATX" motherboard, which requires a "full ATX" case. Many cases also come with power supplies. These bundled power supplies are adequate for general computing. However, if you are building a computer that will house high-end gaming cards or more than two hard drives, you will need a more expensive separate power supply.

Hard Drives and Optical Drives

Most computers contain a hard drive and a DVD burner. Under special circumstances, it is possible to operate a computer without either of these components, but it is very rare for a computer to be set up this way. Hard drives provide permanent storage for the operating system and data. Optical drives, such as DVD burners, allow optical media to be read from and written to.

Optional Components

Computers also typically come with a mouse, keyboard and monitor. These components may not be required, depending on your setup. For example, a "Media Center" computer will typically have no mouse or keyboard connected and will use a television as a display device instead of a monitor. Speakers are another optional component.

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Recycle A Computer Board

Motherboards contain transistors and wires, among other small parts.

Computer boards, or "motherboards," have many small components that can be recycled and reused. Motherboards contain an element called beryllium, used for tiny connections and wires because it is strong and light. Unfortunately, beryllium is a known carcinogen, and throwing it away in a landfill can lead to beryllium and other toxins contaminating groundwater. Recycling them keeps landfills more clear, as well as reduces the carbon emissions that would result from the manufacture of the parts new.

Instructions

Recycle Through Staples

1. Package the motherboard to protect any parts that may still be working. Wrap it in plastic wrap several times. Even if the motherboard as a whole isn't working, plastic wrap can keep any parts from breaking off or getting lost.

2. Stack multiple motherboards together in a small box, with a layer of protective material such as newspaper or bubble wrap between them. This will keep them from breaking against each other.

3. Take the motherboard to your local Staples store. They recycle all small computer components for free, and they do a good job of reusing as many parts as possible.

Recycle at a Computer Store

4. Call a computer store or repair shop near you and ask about their recycling policies. Ask if they're able to reuse or repurpose the board.

5. Package the motherboard according to their instructions, or wrap it in plastic wrap and put it in a cardboard box with packaging materials for protection.

6. Take the motherboard to the computer store during their business hours and drop it off.

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Build A Super Pc

If you need a PC capable of running multiple process for online gaming, video editing or other processor-intensive tasks, your choices may be a bit limited. The price point of those high-end computers can be daunting, often running into thousands of dollars. Building your own may be a better option--you can get just what you want and save a lot of money in the process.

Instructions

1. Choose the best PC case design for your needs. If you need a compact design you will probably want to purchase a slimline case. If you have more space available you may want to opt for a tower case. A tower case design will give you more room to work, as well as provide the opportunity to install multiple hard drives and optical drives.

2. Choose a motherboard with the fastest dual-core processor you can afford. If you will be using your computer for gaming, video editing or photo editing, it is essential that you choose a dual-core processor instead of a less-expensive and less-capable single-core unit. This will give you the ability to multitask and perform complex tasks simultaneously. Set the motherboard in place in the computer case and make sure it is fully seated.

3. Determine how much memory your motherboard will hold--and then buy that amount of memory. You can visit the website of the motherboard manufacturer to determine the maximum memory capacity, as well as get recommendations on the preferred brands of RAM. Maxing out the memory will help your PC boot more quickly and run more efficiently. Memory prices have been dropping in recent years, so maxing out the RAM should not be cost-prohibitive. Locate the memory slots on the motherboard and push firmly but gently on the memory to set it into place. When the memory is fully seated the small white retaining clips should come and up and hold the module in place.

4. Choose large-capacity hard drives for your super PC. Hard drive prices have fallen more sharply than memory prices, so you should aim for a drive with a minimum storage capacity of 500GB. If you shop around, you may even be able to find an affordable drive with a capacity exceeding one terabyte. Locate the empty drive bays on the computer case and slide the drive or drives into place. Secure the drives with screws and attach one end of the gray flat IDE ribbon cable to the back of the drive and the other end to the system's motherboard. If you have room in the case, installing multiple drives can give you greater flexibility and provide backup options as well.

5. Shop around for a good Blu-ray DVD burner for your new computer. The prices of DVD burners in general--and Blu-ray burners in particular, has come down quite a bit in recent years. Installing a Blu-ray burner in your new computer will allow you to watch movies, as well as offer the ability to back up your important files onto large-capacity blank DVD media.

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Check Pc Processor Speed

Have you ever been curious as to how fast your computer is, but forgot to check the box when you bought it? Would you like to know if your computer's processor is really performing up to its potential? Fortunately checking both the computer's processor type and finding out how it is performing is simple enough and by following these steps you'll find out how.

Instructions

1. Click on the "Start" button, click on control panel, click on "System" or "System and maintenance." This window will have your processor type and speed.

2. Check your processor speed by downloading CPU Speed Professional. Go online and download the free application (see Resources).

3. Install the application by double clicking on it.

4. Double click on "Test CPU Speed." When you do this, it will use the built-in algorithm to test see how well your processor speed is performing. For instance, a Dual Core AMD Athlon 64 bit 1.8 GHZ chip may actually only be performing at 1.65 GHZ.

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Asus M2n61ax Motherboard Specs

The Asus M2N61-AX Motherboard is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) version custom built to be used inside of a Dell Inspiron 531 desktop computer. This motherboard and the CPU are the only differences between the Inspiron 530 and the 531, with the 531 providing the user with the more powerful AMD processor, which the 530 lacked.

Processing Units

This is an AM2 supported motherboard with an AMD Athlon 64 3800+ Sempron CPU, which uses an nForce 430 chipset. It runs an Nvidia Geforce 6150 Onboard VGA graphics processing unit that clocks at 475 MHz and supports high definition play back.

Expansion

There are available expansion slots for one PCI express 16X and one PCI express 1X, which are both compatible with PCI software, two regular PCI parallel bus', four DDR2 RAM slots, one VGA out port, an RJ45 and S/PDif in and out ports.

Connectivity

The M2N61-AX has a Realtek RTL 8201N 100M / Nvidia nForce Gigabyte Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN connection (using the RJ45 as mentioned above), as well as eight USB ports (four situated on the back and four situated on the front). Connecting speakers to the motherboard will allow the use of Realtek's eight-channel high definition ALC888 audio codec.

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Specifications For A Foxconn 66imxplus Motherboard

The Foxconn 661MX Plus is a MicroATX motherboard capable of supporting Intel Pentium 4 and Intel Celeron brand CPUs. An older motherboard, the 661MX Plus, supports PATA hard drives instead of newer SATA hard drives. The MicroATX form factor limits the number of expansion ports on the motherboard, but it allows the motherboard to be installed in both MicroATX and Standard ATX computer cases.

CPU, Memory, and Hard Drive Support

The 661MX Plus supports Intel Socket 478 chips, including the Celeron, Celeron D and certain Pentium 4 processors. The motherboard's 500/433Mhz frontside bus (FSB) will not support Pentium 4 processors with an 800Mhz FSB. The 661MX Plus has two slots for single channel DDR memory, and it can support up to 2GB of DDR266/333/400MHz memory. The 661MX Plus contains two Parallel ATA (PATA) slots capable of supporting PATA hard drives. The motherboard does not have native support for Serial ATA (SATA) drives.

Integrated Features

The 661MX Plus utilizes an integrated SIS Mirage graphics chip to supply VGA output. A Realtek ALC655 audio interface manages the line-in, line-out and microphone ports. Onboard Ethernet support is available through a 10/100Mbps LAN interface. The motherboard has 4 USB 2.0 ports for peripherals, in addition to two PS/2 ports, one parallel port and one serial port. The motherboard does not have native IEEE1394 (Firewire) support.

Expansion Slots

The 661MX Plus supports up to 3 PCI expansion cards. An AGP 8x expansion slot allows you to install an AGP graphics card for advanced graphics applications. In addition, the motherboard has two internal USB 2.0 headers capable of supporting up to 4 additional USB 2.0 ports.

ATX Specifications and BIOS Features

The 661MX Plus uses the MicroATX form factor, and it measures 9.6 inches by 8.0 inches. It can be installed in all cases that meet MicroATX and Standard ATX specifications. The motherboard receives power through a 20-pin ATX Power Connector. The BIOS can be updated through Windows with the SuperUpdate utility application and overclocked with the SuperStep application. The 661MX Plus supports remote activation through Wake-on-LAN.

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Differences In The Leonite & The Leonite2

The Leonite and Leonite2 are computer motherboards manufactured by ASUS for use in HP and Compaq computers. Both motherboards are built around the Micro-ATX form factor, which is designed for use in desktop computers. The Leonite and Leonite2 feature the Intel 945G Northbridge and ICH7DH Southbridge chip sets. The motherboards differ only slightly, and primarily in terms of branding, processor upgrades, audio specs and expansion slots.

Identification

The Leonite and Leonite2 are based on the same ASUS P5LP-LE motherboard. HP tweaked and subsequently rebranded the ASUS P5LP-LE when building it into the HP and Compaq computers, giving one tweaked version the name Leonite-GL8E and the other Leonite2-GL8E. Because they are based on the same original motherboard, the Leonite and Leonite2 have similar specifications. Both motherboards feature integrated Intel GMA950 graphics, compatibility with up to four 240-pin DDR2 RAM modules, and can be equipped with front-side bus speeds of 533 MHz, 800 MHz, or 1,066 MHz, depending on the processor with which they are paired.

Processor Compatibility

Although the Leonite and Leonite2 are both Socket 775 boards, they are compatible with slightly different processors. The Leonite supports six different processor series, including Core 2 Duo E6x00, Core 2 Duo E4x00, Pentium D 9x0 Dual Core, Pentium D 8xx Dual Core, Pentium 4 6x1 and Celeron D 3xx, all of which are manufactured by Intel. The Leonite2, on the other hand, supports Core 2 Duo E6x00 up to model number E6700, Core 2 Duo E4x00 up to model E4400, Pentium E2000 series up to E2160, Pentium 4 6x1 up to model 661, the Celeron series up to model 440 and the Celeron D series up to model 365.

Audio and Expansion

The Leonite and Leonite2 both feature eight-channel, high-definition audio with support for S/PDIF input and output. The Leonite uses the Realtek ALC888 audio CODEC, while the Leonite2 uses the Realtek ALC888S audio CODEC. Both motherboards feature one PCI Express x16 expansion slot. The Leonite also has three PCI expansion slots, compared to two for the Leonite2. However, the Leonite2 also has a PCI Express x1 expansion slot, while the Leonite doesn't.

Additional Information

Both motherboards are equipped with on-board 10-Base-T Ethernet functionality using Intel 82562V technology. External inputs and outputs available on both motherboards include one IEEE 1394a port, two PS/2 jacks, a pair of coaxial S/PDIF connections, four USB 2.0 ports, a VGA monitor output and six audio jacks.

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Reinstall Chipset Drivers

Chipset drivers often are on the disks that came with the computer.

Chipset drivers are small applications that control how a computer's key components--specifically the processor, memory and motherboard--interact with Microsoft Windows. They usually are pre-installed by the computer manufacturer, but you can reinstall them from other sources in an emergency.

Installation Disks

The first places to check are installation disks that came with the computer. Typically, they are labeled "Drivers" or "Recovery Disks." Instructions that came with the computer may mention them; otherwise, the disks can be browsed for the relevant drivers.

Manufacturer's Website

Chipset drivers are always available from the manufacturer's website. The manufacturer of a computer's internal components can be determined via the computer's seller, an Internet search or a diagnostics tool. Main chipset drivers usually come from the motherboard manufacturer and cover basic audio and graphics functionality. If hardware is more than 3 or 4 years old, a third-party driver library may be needed.

Device Manager

Drivers also can be updated through Device Manager in Windows' Control Panel. Right-clicking on a particular component and choosing Update Driver Software can force Windows to search for compatible updated drivers on the Internet. Matches are downloaded and installed automatically.

Installation

Chipset drivers can be installed simply by running the setup file from the installation disk or downloading them from the Internet. In most cases, a reboot is required. The setup programs that come with the drivers proceed through the update process to completion.

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Diy Micro Atx

Micro ATX computers are often aesthetically pleasing and fast.

Micro ATX is a standard to fit the needs of consumers who want a balance of form and function. Standard ATX and extended ATX require large computer cases that are out of place in everywhere but a spacious office. Micro ATX is a smaller form factor that is available as barebones kits or individual components. The kits are often tailored toward entertainment centers or small spaces or for portability. Despite their size, some Micro ATX kits pack a quite a punch. They can often run all of the games and applications that even the larger models struggle with.

Instructions

1. Purchase the Micro ATX components. Many retailers have deals from time to time on barebones kits or combos.

2. Open the Micro ATX case using the screwdriver. Put on your anti-static wristband.

3. The cutouts on the case should line up with the motherboard.

Insert the Micro ATX motherboard, taking care to align the USB ports with the back of the case. The ports should line up with the cutouts on the Micro ATX case. Tighten the screws, then release the RAM levers.

4. RAM is keyed and needs to snapped into the motherboard's RAM slots.

Insert the RAM into the motherboard's RAM slots, then flip up the levers.

5. Thermal paste should be applied to the side of the CPU without pins.

Insert the CPU into the motherboard's CPU socket. Apply thermal paste to the top of the CPU, then attach the fan. Lock it all to the motherboard using the supplied clips.

6. Serial ATA cables or SATA are easy to connect and disconnect.

Install the hard drive and optical disk drive into the Micro ATX case's drive bay. Attach the SATA cables from the hard drive and optical disk drive to the motherboard's SATA slot.

7. Insert the video card into the PCI-Express slot of the motherboard taking care to align the keyed edge to the slot.

8. Attach the 20-pin power connector to the motherboard, attach power cables to the hard drive and optical disk drive, then to the video card if necessary.

9. Close the computer, tighten the screws, attach a keyboard, mouse and monitor, then press the power button. The BIOs screen should show up.

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Elitegroup P4vxas Specifications

The P4VXAS is an Intel motherboard produced by Elitegroup Computer Systems. This motherboard, which was introduced in 2003, supports a variety of now-outdated computer hardware systems including AGP graphics, Intel socket 478 processors and single-channel SDRAM memory. This motherboard does provide a substantial number of expansion slots, however, as well as support for USB 1.1 and IEEE 1394a data connections.

Processors

The P4VXAS uses the LGA 478 processor socket to support three basic types of Intel processors. The board supports 12 Pentium 4 processor models with speeds ranging from 1.6 to 2.8 GHz. This board also supports five Celeron processor models with speeds between 1.7 and 2.53 GHz.

Features

This motherboard supports SD-RAM modules in single-channel mode. It provides a total of three 168-pin DIMM sockets designed for RAM modules operating at 3.3 volts. The P4VXAS supports a total of 3 GB of memory using registered memory, or 1.5 GB with unbuffered memory. The Socket 423 interface used on this board provides a Front Side Bus with a maximum operating speed of 400 MHz. The VIA Apollo P4X266 VT8233 chipset controls this board. The North Bridge chipset of this board uses the VIA VT8753 processor, and the South Bridge uses the VIA VT8233 chipset.

Multimedia

The multimedia capabilities of the P4VXAS includes support for discrete video cards using an 8x Accelerated Graphics Port. An integrated sound controller, using the AC 97 2.2 Audio Codec, supports audio applications. The on-board sound controller supports 18-bit analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters and 18-bit stereo output.

Expansion Slots

The P4VXAS provides a large number of expansion slots using outdated standards. These slots include five 32-bit PCI slots, an 8x AGP slot and a communications and networking riser. The CNR slot is an outdated slot used to connect modems and Network Interface Cards (NICs) to the motherboard. Although these slots are capable of accommodating most types of expansion cards, many modern video cards require a PCI Express x16 slot, which is not provided on this board.

Ports

The ports available on the P4VXAS includes a pair of PS/2 ports designed to accommodate a keyboard and mouse. This board also includes support for two serial ports, one parallel port, a combination MIDI and game port, four USB 1.1 ports and and three audio jacks for microphone, line-in and line-out. Although it supports a total of four USB ports, this board only provides two external USB ports on the rear panel. The other two USB ports feature built-in USB headers.

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