Steps to do before installing upgrade processor?

smittytech

Prior to installing processor, check that you have BIOS Version 1.0.15,  when support for new Intel CPU's was added.

There should be no need to backup your files and folders

How to replace the Inspiron 530 processor.

As you intend to reuse the heatsink, plan on cleaning it's base and applying thermal compound to the processor.

Directions for cleaning and applying thermal compound, are HERE.

You only need a small tube of thermal compound, this can be purchased from any computer store.

Bev.

No, I have'nt installed the E-5400 yet. What I have now is Celeron 450. I was wondering about 1 core to 2 core. Will I see a ample increase in processing going from a 1 core processor to a dual core processor? I hope that's not a dumb question? I bought the box set that comes with new heatsink and fan. Should be here tomorrow. Will I still need the thermal compound?

Thanks Bev. I checked my SIW program and I have BIOS Version 1.0.18. Is that ok? Also, the Intel E-5400 is a Dual core processor, but under CPU in the SIW program, says I have 1 core Intel Celeron CPU 450 @ 2.20GHz. Can I use this 2 core processor? Thanks for all your help!

smittytech

BIOS version 1.0.18 will be fine.

The E-5400 should work, but I'm not certain, I understand the question about the CPU, do you mean that you have installed the E-5400 and it shows a Celeron 450?

Bev.

smittytech

Yes, you will see an increase in speed using dual core processor, over the Celeron 450.

You need to reuse the Dell heatsink, as I doubt that the standard ATX heatsink will fit the motherboard retention bracket.  All the heatsinks I've seen shipped with retail processors have thermal pads attached to the base. 

Bev.

HERE is a list of compatible processors.  Let us know if the E5400 works.  It is not on the list.  They show the E5200, but not the E5400.  Your Celeron 450 is shown on the list, however. 

Bev,

I installed the E5400 processor and it is working fine so far. I did as you suggested and re-used the dell heatsink and fan. Didn't like the Intel one. Looked cheap.

Cpu is running at 40C temp. Thanks for your help. Thinking about changing video card, got a Evga 8400 GS Pci-e 512MB ddr2. Would a 9500GT be a good step up or

do you suggest something else. Trying to stay under 100.00.

                                                                                                                                                         Smittech

JMichael,

I checked out the list but still went ahead and install E5400 processor. Computer booted up ok, searched for drivers and is running fine. Could see differences

right away. Time will tell, temp is at 40C. Thanks for you help and maybe FoxConn needs to add this processor to their G33M02 MOBO compatable List! Thanks for

the info.                                        Smittech

Bev, I installed the E5400 processor and it is working fine so far. I did as you suggested and re-used the dell heatsink and fan. Didn't like the Intel one. Looked cheap. Cpu is running at 40C temp. Thanks for your help. Thinking about changing video card, got a Evga 8400 GS Pci-e 512MB ddr2. Would a 9500GT be a good step up or do you suggest something else. Trying to stay under 100.00.                                                                                                                                                          Smittech

smittytech

The 9500GT will give you slightly more performance over the 8400GS, remembering that you have a 300w power supply, check out the GeForce GT 240 1GB 128-bit DDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 video card.

Bev.

Hey Bev, I already installed a Thermaltake 430W PSU yesterday and I purchased the EVGA 9500. Should be here 2morrow. Got a killer price and a 20.00 rebate too.

I have a question for you, after installing the PSU, (don't know if this is the reason why), when I boot up, Windows trys to install a driver for new unindenified (my spelling....) device. That couldn't be the PSU, could it? I see it in my Device Manager under Other devices, Unknown device with a yellow ! Help.

           Smittytech

smittytech

I doubt that a power supply would create a, 'Unkown Device' error.

See if THIS can help with identifying the device causing the error.

Bev.

Sorry I didn't get back with you Bev,

I tried the "unkown device" program but it didn't help, but when I installed 9500 GT video card the problem just went away. Wow! Everything is working out fine.

Thanks for all your help! Dell Community Rocks!!!

Smittytech:emotion-2:

smittytech

You are welcome

Pleased to hear that the problem is solved.

Bev.