Installing a new central processing unit (CPU) in your Sony VAIO computer is an easy way to increase performance. And unlike a motherboard or hard drive upgrade, you don't need to re-install Windows when you're finished. This is a general guide on replace your VAIO desktop's CPU, and it will also work with most other manufacturers' machines.
Instructions
Preparation
1. Before you begin, be sure that the CPU you intend to install is compatible with your computer. Check the Computer Properties settings in Windows to find your current CPU type. If your computer won't boot, go to another one and look up the specifications for your specific model on the manufacturer's website (in this case, Sony.com). Make sure that your new CPU is in the same product family as the old one; preferably the same model or a faster one. You can check CPU compatibility at the CPU manufacturer's website. Intel (Intel.com) and AMD (amd.com) are the two major CPU manufacturers.
2. Unplug all power and data cables from your computer. Examine the back panel. The ports for your monitor, keyboard, etc. will be on either the right or left side. Pick the computer up and lay it flat on a large, clean table, with the side adjacent to your ports facing down. Again, if your ports are on the left side of the back panel, lay the computer down with the right side facing up, and vice versa. The table should be in an area away from carpeting or frequent dust.
3. Be sure that you are wearing rubber-soled shoes, such as sneakers. An anti-static bracelet is preferable, but not essential. Lay out your supplies on the table next to your computer: the replacement CPU, both screwdrivers, and the thermal paste.
Installation
4. Examine the back panel. There should be two or three screws fixing the top-facing side panel in place. Remove them with your Phillips head screwdriver. Push the side panel gently in the direction of the back panel. When the panel clicks or stops, lift it off the computer and set it aside.
5. Identify the CPU module. The CPU is underneath a large fan sitting on the motherboard, usually towards the back. The fan may have an Intel or AMD label on it. Remove any cables obscuring your work, taking note of where they go for re-insertion later. There is a small power cable connecting the fan to the motherboard; it has a white plastic head. Remove it gently.
6. Using the Phillips or flathead screwdriver as appropriate, unscrew the 2-4 screws surrounding the fan. You should hear a pop or a spring. When the last screw is loose from the motherboard, gently grasp the fan, pull it out of your computer, and set it on the table.
7. Depending on the age and manufacturer of your current CPU, there may be a small lever affixing a plastic plate over the CPU. Pull this lever back if necessary, then lift up the plate and leave it resting on its hinge. Being sure not to touch the bottom of the CPU or its receptacle, gently grasp it with your thumb, forefinger and middle finger. Raise it out of your computer and set it aside.
8. Take note of the pattern of the contacts in the CPU slot on your motherboard. Pick up your replacement CPU and examine the underside. Making sure that the pins on the CPU and the contacts on the slot are properly aligned, gently place the new CPU into the CPU slot. On older machines a small amount of force may be necessary.
Re-assembly
9. Take your thermal paste and add a small drop about the size of a pea to the silver top of the installed CPU. Replace the plastic plate and lever if your motherboard has them. If your new CPU came with a cooling fan, pick it up; if it didn't, grab the fan you removed in Step 3 of Section 2. Examine the contact plate on the bottom of the fan; if there is dried thermal paste still sticking to it, remove it with a coin or razor blade.
10. Align the cooling fan over the installed CPU, making sure to line up the holes for the screws. Screw down the fan with the appropriate screwdriver. This may require some force, but be sure not to add much weight or you may damage the components. Plug in the small wire attached to the fan to the appropriate motherboard pins (see Section 2 Step 3).
11. Replace any cables you may have removed to access the CPU fan. Place the computer's side panel back on, slide it towards the front, and replace the screws on the back panel. Congratulations! You've successfully replaced your VAIO's CPU. Place your computer in its old spot, reconnect your external cables, and boot up with your new hardware.
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