Install Mac Os On Pc Using Virtualbox

Although Macs can run Mac OS X, Windows and Linux with little effort PCs can't run Mac OS X without special software. While you can't boot to Mac OS X from your PC's hard drive you can run Mac OS X from within Windows using VirtualBox, an application designed to virtualize operating systems. VirtualBox creates virtual machines, which function identical to physical computers but are more flexible. To install Mac OS X on a PC with VirtualBox, confirm your computer has virtualization technology enabled, then set up a new virtual machine for the Mac OS.

Instructions

1. Click "Start." Input "devmgmt.msc" into the search bar. Press "Enter" to launch Device Manager.

2. Expand "Processors" and double-click the CPU device, then check the "Manufacturer" field to determine whether the CPU is AMD or Intel.

3. Close Device Manager, then download "Intel Processor Identification Utility" or "AMD Virtualization Technology and Microsoft Hyper-V System Compatibility Check Utility," depending on which manufacturer developed your CPU.

4. Launch the download and install the program if required. If either program indicates that virtualization technology is not enabled on the PC, restart the computer.

5. Press the setup key as indicated on the screen to go to system setup. Follow the instructions on the Windows Virtual PC site at microsoft.com to configure the virtualization settings in system setup.

6. Download EmpireEFI for Intel or AMD depending on which processor your computer comes installed with.

7. Launch VirtualBox and click "New." Click "Next," then enter a name for the Mac OS X virtual machine.

8. Select "Mac OS X" from the "Operating System" and "Version" drop-down menus. Click "Next."

9. Set the base memory to at least one gigabyte. Click "Next," then check "Boot Hard Disk (Primary Master)." Click "Create New Hard Disk," then click "Next" and click "Next" again.

10. Select "Fixed Size Storage," then click "Next." Select a location for the hard disk data file or create a new folder. Set the storage size to 20 GB. Click "Next," then click "Finish."

11. Click "Finish" again to create a new virtual machine for Mac OS X in VirtualBox. Click "Settings" to edit the virtual machine.

12. Go to the "Display" tab and check "Enable 3D Acceleration." Set the video memory as high as possible.

13. Click "System." Clear "Enable EFI," then check "Enable IO APIC." Go to the "Processor" tab, then check "Enable PAE/NX." Go to "Acceleration," then check "Enable VT-x/AMD-V" and "Enable Nesting Page."

14. Return to "Motherboard." Check "CD/DVD-ROM," then click the up arrow to move it to the top. Click "OK" to close the settings window.

15. Use a program like Daemon Tools, Virtual CloneDrive or Magic ISO to mount the EmpireEFI ISO file. Select the program from the task bar, then point to a virtual drive. Select the option to mount the image, then double-click the EmpireEFI file.

16. Launch the new virtual machine. Insert the Mac OS X DVD into the DVD drive.

17.Right-click the "EmpireEFI" CD icon when the EmpireEFI screen loads. Select the disc drive containing the Mac OS X DVD. Press "F5," then press "Enter," when the DVD has loaded.

18. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Mac OS X to the virtual machine.

Tags: virtual machine, then check, check Enable, then click, Click Next then

Measure A Positive Static Charge

Static electricity can make hair stand on end.

Cold, dry days produce conditions ideal for static electricity in the home. Nearly everyone has experienced a quick static discharge while reaching for a doorknob. Thousands of volts are behind these sparks -- enough to damage sensitive electronics. Identifying and safely eliminating static electricity is essential in electronics, manufacturing and aviation. Electrostatic discharges (ESD) can arise from friction between two materials, like film pulled across a roller, shoes on the carpet or even air traveling over an aircraft wing. Identifying the problem is the first step to mitigating or eliminating it.

Instructions

1. Measure electrostatic potential with an electrostatic voltmeter. These meters have extremely high input impedance to prevent a static discharge through the meter. Their sensors need to be near a potential ESD material, but not in contact with it. The charge is induced in the sensor and applied to a capacitor and a buffer amplifier before measurement. These meters use auto-ranging and automatically display voltage polarity,

2. Measure the electrostatic charge on a small object with a nanocoulomb meter equipped with a Faraday cup. The charge transfers to the cup and the nanocoulomb meter will measure it down to 0.01 nanocoulombs. A Coulomb is the charge necessary to deliver one ampere of current in one second, so a nanocoulomb is one-billionth of that charge. A nanocoulomb meter measures charges far smaller than the electrostatic voltmeter.

3. Use an electrostatic field meter for precise measurements of an ESD field. Sometimes called static meters or static locators, these meters must be placed within a known distance of the surface to be measured. For instance, if the meter is calibrated with a 1-foot square plate charged to 1-kilovolt and the sensor is placed 1 inch away, subsequent measurements must be performed at the same distance.

Tags: nanocoulomb meter, electrostatic voltmeter, Measure electrostatic, static discharge, static electricity, These meters

Vacuum A Computer

Dust and debris can accumulate inside your desktop computer over time and cause major damage. Dust can become caked on the processor heat sink and fan, causing the processor to overheat and fail. Pet hair and dust can also accumulate inside your power supply. A thorough cleaning inside your computer case at least once a year is important. Here's safely use a household vacuum cleaner for this chore if a special computer vacuum isn't available.

Instructions

Vacuum A Desktop Computer

1. Unplug your computer from all cables and remove the cover. Lay the computer down on a worktable, open side facing up. If there is a hood covering a rear exhaust fan or the processor, remove it. Most exhaust fan hoods pop out easily when the mounting tabs are pressed.

2. Press the power button on the computer for a few seconds to discharge any latent electricity that may still be in the system. Look for any loose screws or other loose components and either remove them or secure them.

3. Position the vacuum cleaner so the hose will reach inside the case easily. Remove any attachments from the "sucking" end of the hose so only the bare "tube" remains. Make sure the vacuum cleaner you're using has a plastic "tube" end; a metal tube will harm your motherboard.

4. Turn on the vacuum cleaner and test the "sucking" power by placing your palm over the end of the tube. If the tube forcefully sticks to your palm, the vacuum cleaner may be too strong and you should switch to a lesser-powered model. Extract dirt and debris from the outside of the case. Place the tube near the vents found on the front of the computer near the base. Vacuum any debris out of nooks and crannies around the closed optical drives and just inside any floppy drive "flap." Vacuum the exhaust fan on the rear of the computer case. Vacuum the vents on the outside of the power supply. Suck up any debris accumulating around the exterior of the PCI Card slots.

5. Hold the end of the vacuum tube near but not directly on the power supply from the inside of the case. Move the vacuum tube to any interior exhaust fans. Carefully vacuum the processor fan and heat sink assembly by holding the tube at least 1 inch away from the surface. Vacuum around the hard drive cage. Do not vacuum any other areas of the motherboard.

6. Switch to the air can. Gently blow out any hidden debris from crevices inside the case. Direct a stream of air on any fan blades with the air can to make sure they still spin freely. Use the vacuum again to pick up any dust the air can treatment may have dislodged.

7. Turn off the vacuum cleaner and unplug it from the wall outlet. Remove any static electricity from your body by touching a piece of bare metal outside the computer. Replace any hoods you removed earlier. Replace the cover on the computer. Plug in the power and all cables.

Tags: vacuum cleaner, inside case, inside your, power supply, accumulate inside, accumulate inside your, computer case

Test A Computer Motherboard

A motherboard is the base of the computer, providing power and processing to the hard drive, memory, internal cards and peripherals. If your computer won't boot, cards or peripherals fail or system error messages pop up, one of the first things you should do is test the computer motherboard.

Instructions

1. Download free diagnostic tools from your motherboard manufacturer's website or other reliable websites. Follow the directions to test the motherboard. If a BIOS upgrade is available, download and run it.

2. Change the CMOS battery if the computer will not keep the right time or save configuration settings.

3. Turn on the computer. Press the appropriate key to get into the Setup or BIOS configuration. Write down all BIOS settings. Set the BIOS to default settings.

4. Remove unnecessary cards and peripherals, like sound cards and modems. Disconnect the hard drive.

5. Take out the memory and processor. Reseat them gently and firmly in their slots. Check for loose connections on chips and jumper caps. Turn on the computer and note whether it powers on and displays a hard drive error. If not, continue to troubleshoot.

6. Swap the power supply and video card with parts from a working computer. Test the computer again. If it powers on, replace the components one at a time until you find the one causing a problem.

7. Replace components one at a time until you find the card causing a problem. Turn on the computer. Enter the BIOS configuration screen. Configure the settings to the previous setup.

Tags: cards peripherals, hard drive, Turn computer, BIOS configuration, causing problem, components time

Install A 320gb Hard Drive

Install a new hard drive to your computer in a few simple steps.

The hard drive or hard disk is computer hardware that serves as a storage medium for computer files. Hard drives have varying ranges, from the obsolete 20GB to as high as 320GB or greater. As new programs and applications are developed, the need to upgrade computer hard drives has become necessary to accommodate these programs. It is actually easy to install a new hard drive if you know the necessary steps to follow.

Instructions

1. Study the design of your computer casing to figure out open it. Most casings are held in place by several Phillips screws, while some are "screwless" and have buttons to be pressed or clips that need to be unhooked to open. Refer to the casing manual for specific instructions on open the computer casing. Note that opening the computer casing should be done with the computer turned off and the power cable unplugged from the power source.

2. Locate the slot where you need to place the hard drive. This is usually located parallel to the CD/DVD-ROM/hard disk slot.

3. Look for the "IDE cable" attached to your old hard drive and see if one of the connectors is available to be connected to the new hard drive. If there is no connector available but there is a slot on the motherboard for another IDE cable, you may get another IDE cable and attach one end to the motherboard, and then the other end to the hard drive. If there is no slot for another IDE cable, you may need to disconnect one IDE connector to give room to the new hard drive.

4. Read the sticker attached to your hard drive for the "jumper settings" that you have to follow. Also check the jumper settings of the old hard drive installed to the computer. Set your new 320GB hard drive as the "master" and the other one as "slave." Follow the instructions indicated on the sticker.

5. Place the hard drive on its proper slot and use a Phillips screwdriver (if applicable) to hold the disk in place. Find a power cord attached to the motherboard and attach it to the power port of the disk. Also attach the IDE cable to the IDE cable slot on the hard disk. Close the computer casing.

Tags: hard drive, computer casing, another cable, hard disk, your hard drive

Install A Radeon Hd 5870 8 Pin Connector Power Supply

The ATI Radeon HD 5870 cannot pull enough power directly through the motherboard to work properly, as other expansion cards do. Instead, this video card needs to have a direct connection to your power supply through the connector on the back of the card. Once the card is connected into the power cable, it receives enough electricity to work properly and not cause any power-related issues.

Instructions

1. Power off your desktop. Disconnect all cables on your computer tower. Remove your case's cover. If you cannot unscrew the side panel of your case cover, try looking for a release button or latch on the computer.

2. Detach the slot cover from the back of your case.

3. Slide the Radeon 5870 HD graphics card into the PCI-E slot on your computer's motherboard.

4. Connect the power cable into the power connector on the video card. The Radeon video card will not work properly if you do not connect the power cable to the card.

Tags: power cable, Radeon 5870, video card, work properly, your case, case cover, into power

The Specs On A Geforce 7300gt

The Nvidia GeForce 7300 GT video card offered an affordable and capable option to buyers at its release in 2006. The card secured a place on the long-running "Best Gaming Graphics Cards for the Money" list at the website, Tom's Hardware.

GPU and Memory

The 7300 GT was based on Nvidia's G73 graphics processing unit and had a core clock speed of 350 megahertz (MHz) and a memory clock speed of 325 MHz. Memory bandwidth was 10.4 gigabytes (GB) per second. Nvidia's manufacturing partners typically equipped the card with 256 megabytes (MB) of double data rate (DDR)2 video memory, although some versions had 128 or 512 MB.

Interface and Ports

Manufacturers produced the 7300 GT in peripheral component interconnect-express (PCI-E) and accelerated graphics port (AGP) versions. PCI-E motherboard interfaces remain the norm on computers as of 2011, while the older and slower AGP interface is no longer made. Makers of the 7300 GT provided digital visual interface (DVI) and video graphics accelerator (VGA) ports for connection to monitors, and an S-video port for connection to TVs.

DirectX Support and Production

The 7300 GT supported Micosoft's DirectX 9.0c application programming interfaces. The card can not use graphics enhancements provided with later versions of DirectX. The 7300 GT was a very popular product, with 117 retail PCI-E versions, and 23 AGP versions produced, according to the website, GPU Review.

Tags: clock speed

Install Asus Bios Update

The BIOS controls most motherboard functions.

ASUSTek produces a wide array of motherboards. It sometimes becomes necessary to update the basic input/output system (BIOS) on the motherboard. This is primarily necessary due to system instability that has been solved with later versions of the BIOS software. ASUS provides a utility called the "BIOS Update" utility. Using the most up-to-date version of this utility can ensure proper function of any ASUS motherboard.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the ASUSTek support site. Use the drop-down menus to select your product type, model and operating system.

2. Select the model of your motherboard and the system that you are using. This will take you to a download screen with the correct version of the ASUS BIOS update utility. Download the utility.

3. Close all other Windows programs and open the BIOS Update file that you downloaded. The "Driver" menu will appear. Click "Utilities" and select "Install Asus Update."

Tags: Install Asus

Replace An Lga775

The LGA 775 socket is often referred to as a "Socket T."

The LGA 775, also known as "Socket T," is a CPU socket especially designed for Intel processor chips, and is the predecessor of the LGA 478. Unlike previous Intel CPU sockets like the 478, the LGA 775 does not have pin holes, but rather 775 protruding pins that connect to the Intel CPU chip. Many hardware engineers and computer builders prefer the 775 because of its rugged design. The 775 also does not get as hot as the 478, which helps CPU chips last longer.

Instructions

1. Disassemble your computer so you have access to your computer's CPU. Computer disassembly varies greatly from computer model to computer model. Refer to the disassembly instructions in your computer's service manual. If you do not have your service manual, many computer manufacturer's offer them from their website for free.

2. Locate your Intel CPU chip, and then lift up on the metal tab to release the CPU chip from the LGA 775 socket. Lift the CPU out of the 775 socket, and carefully set it aside. You may want to store the CPU chip in an anti-static plastic bag temporarily.

3. Pull up on the LGA 775 socket's side handles. Carefully wiggle the socket until it comes free from motherboard. Take your time, eventually the LGA 775 will completely disconnect from the motherboard. Be very cautious as to not damage any of the neighboring computer hardware.

4. Repeat this procedure in reverse to replace the LGA 775 CPU socket.

Tags: your computer, computer model, from motherboard, Intel chip, service manual

Update The Drivers For Realtek Pcie Gbe Family Controller For Windows 7

Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controllers comprise a series of network interface controllers -- wired Ethernet cards that provide network connectivity -- produced by Realtek. As with any wired Ethernet card, a Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller installed on your Windows 7 PC must have the newest Windows 7 drivers to perform at full capacity. If you are having network problems with your wired Internet connection, you may need to update the drivers for your network card. Realtek always offers the latest drivers for its controllers online, and you can download and install them yourself.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows 7 "Start" menu button and type "Device Manager" in the search bar. Click the "Device Manager" link under Control Panel in the search list that pops up.

2. Double-click "Network adapters" until you see the list expand, right-click "Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller" and select "Properties."

3. Click the "Driver" tab and note the driver version for the device.

4. Go to the Realtek Downloads website (see Resources) and locate the most recent driver version for Windows 7. If the driver date and version matches the one installed on your PC, your computer is already running the most up-to-date driver. If not, choose one of the site-specific download links for the auto-installation option and save the file to your PC.

5. Double-click the compressed ZIP file to access its contents, and then double-click the Setup.exe file to run the auto-installer.

6. Select "Repair" from the option list and click "Next." Windows 7 will install the new drivers.

7. Click "Finish" to exit the program.

Tags: Family Controller, Realtek PCIe, Realtek PCIe Family, card Realtek, Device Manager, driver version, installed your

Use Remote Desktop Mobile 6 1

Some devices such as cell phones run the Windows Mobile operating system. The Windows Mobile operating system offers support for the Remote Desktop Mobile 6.1 software application. You use Remote Desktop Mobile 6.1 to connect your mobile device to your Windows computer so that you can access the data on your computer even when you are away from it. To do so you must configure your computer and your device and initiate the connection.

Instructions

1. Configure your computer. Click the "Start" button, then right-click the "My Computer" icon in the Start menu. Click "Properties" in the context menu to open the System Properties dialog box.

2. Click the "Remote" tab in the dialog box. Click to check the box next to "Allow users to connect remotely to this computer" in the Remote Desktop section. Click the "Apply" button, then click the "OK" button.

3. Configure your mobile device. Tap the "Start" button on your device, then tap the "Applications" link on the Start menu. This opens the Applications window. Tap the "Remote Desktop Mobile" icon to open the Remote Desktop Mobile window.

4. Enter your computer's name, your user name and password, and the domain name if your computer is in a domain.

5. Connect to your computer. Tap the "Connect" button in the Remote Desktop Mobile window. This opens a Windows login box. Enter the user name and password with which you log into your computer, then tap the "OK" button. Your computer's desktop will appear in the Remote Desktop Mobile window.

6. Open software applications, files, or web pages through the Remote Desktop Mobile window just as you would if you were at your desktop.

Tags: Remote Desktop, Desktop Mobile, Remote Desktop Mobile, Desktop Mobile window, Mobile window, your computer

Flash Msi Bios

Motherboard

Flashing the BIOS on your MSI mainboard may be necessary if your computer is not running correctly or if more recent BIOS versions address issues with your computer. You can flash the MSI BIOS through a utility in Windows provided for free by MSI or by manually downloading the correct BIOS file, creating and booting to a bootable floppy disk and flashing the BIOS through a DOS prompt.

Instructions

Flashing Through Windows

1. Download and install the MSI Live Update program available for free at http://www.msi.com.

2. Run the Live Update program and select the "Live Update" button located at the top of the window. Make sure that "Automatic update" is checked and then click the "Search" button located near the lower left of the window. The program will search for any available BIOS updates for your particular motherboard automatically.

3. Check the box with BIOS listed as the type and click the "Download" button. Once the application finishes downloading your BIOS update, click the "Save Path" button to go to the location the update was downloaded.

4. Close all open applications and then launch the update program previously downloaded. Follow the prompts that appear on screen. Once the application finishes flashing your BIOS the computer will restart.

Flashing Manually With A Floppy Disk

5. Determine the model of your MSI motherboard, for example MS-4567. The model number is on the motherboard user guide and on the motherboard itself, usually located somewhere near the PCI slots.

6. Navigate to msi.com and select MSI Global as your location choice. Then select the Mainboard button underneath the Products drop-down.

7. Run a product search for the model of your motherboard. In the search results, select the Downloads tab. Select the Bios button for the model of your particular motherboard from the results.

8. Download the zip file of the most recent driver and extract the contents to c:\bios. Write down the file names of the executable file and any other non-.txt or .doc file.

9. Place the empty floppy disk in the floppy drive and navigate to My Computer. Right-click the A: drive and select Format. In the window that opens check "Create an MS-DOS start up disk" and click format.

After Formatting Floppy Disk

10. Boot your computer to the A: drive by restarting. By default most computers will try to boot to the A: drive first but if your computer ends up booting to Windows then you need to edit the BIOS settings to make it boot to the A: drive before it boots to the hard disk. If successful you will come to a prompt that reads A:\.

11. Type the following commands at the prompt:

cd c:\bios

c:

Type the filenames without the "" characters. The executable filename and the bios update filename are the filenames that you wrote down earlier.

12. Run through the prompts that appear after executing the program and wait for the BIOS to finish flashing. When the update finishes, remove the floppy disk and restart the system to boot back to Windows.

Tags: your computer, floppy disk, Live Update, model your, your particular motherboard, application finishes

Replace The Hp Motherboard K8n8xla

Replace your computer's motherboard.

If your desktop computer was an automobile, the motherboard would be its frame. It's the largest internal part of the PC, and it connects everything to everything else. The power supply, CPU, hard drive, disk drive, RAM, graphics card and sound card all connect through the motherboard. Because of its complexity, the motherboard is also one of the most common parts of a computer to fail. Removing the K8N8X-LA motherboard from your desktop and installing a new one will require extensive work and should not be attempted by a computer hardware novice.

Instructions

1. Turn your computer off and remove all power and data cables. Place the computer on a clean, steady table with the case's access panel facing up.

2. Remove the access panel screws from the back of the case with a large Phillips-head screwdriver. Slide the access panel back, pull it off and set it aside.

3. Unplug all the power and data cables from the motherboard except for the processor and CPU cooler. These cables you will remove in this step, in any order, are: the 20-pin motherboard power cord, 4-pin CPU power cord, 2 SATA data cables (hard drive and CD drive), the front USB cord, front audio cord and front power/LED cable. There also may be system cooling fans connected to the motherboard. Remove the power cable attached to the graphics card if it is present.

4. Remove all the screws holding the motherboard in place. Remove any screws from any other attached components, such as the graphics card. Remove any components obscuring the motherboard except the CPU fan, the RAM DIMMs and any AGP or PCI-E cards. Grasp the motherboard and pull it out of the case. Carefully set it on the table. Put the case on the ground and place the replacement motherboard next to the one you removed.

5. Unplug the ODM power cord (attached to the CPU fan) from the motherboard. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the CPU cooler from the motherboard. Lift it off and set it aside. Lift the bar holding the CPU in place. Remove the CPU and place it in the socket in the new motherboard. Lower the bar to secure the CPU. Screw the CPU cooler into place on the new motherboard and plug in the ODM power cord.

6. Remove the RAM DIMMs from their slots by pushing the tabs on the top and bottom of the memory slots. Place them in the corresponding slots in the new motherboard. Push down until the tabs lock into place. Remove any AGP or PCI-E cards from the old motherboard and plug them into their corresponding places on the new one. If your new motherboard lacks a CMOS battery, install the battery from the old one.

7. Set the old motherboard aside and place the computer case back on the table. Carefully lower the motherboard into place. Replace all the mounting screws you removed in Step 4.

8. Replace all the power and data cables removed in Step 2. Check that all connections are completely secure. Replace any components that you removed to pull the motherboard out. Screw any AGP or PCI-E cards to the case. Replace the system access panel and screw it in to the back of the case.

9. Place your computer in its usual spot and replace all power and data cords. Turn the computer on.

Tags: from motherboard, access panel, data cables, power cord, power data

Install Asus Bios

Installing the new BIOS can resolve motherboard problems.

Your computer's motherboard needs the correct version of the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) to properly run through all its power on tests and ensure each hardware device is working. When you start to experience hardware problems or have trouble loading the operating system, its likely time to install a new BIOS, which is a process called "flashing." The BIOS can be upgraded directly from your desktop by running the Asus BIOS updater tool.

Instructions

1. Open the "Start" menu and click the "Search" feature. Type "System Information" and then click the icon that appears in the search results.

2. Locate the entry labeled "BIOS Version." Take note of the current Asus motherboard BIOS version, and then close the window.

3. Return to your web browser and navigate to the Asus website. Download and install the latest version of the Asus BIOS updater program.

4. Navigate to the Asus BIOS download Web page. Click the "Product" drop down menu and choose "Motherboard." Choose the series and model of your Asus motherboard from the corresponding drop down menus.

5. Check through the list of available BIOS versions, and click the link for the latest version. Take note of the location where you download the file. Open the Asus BIOS updater program you installed earlier.

6. Click the drop down menu at the bottom of the window, and select the option labeled "Update BIOS from a file." Click "Next."

7. Click "Open." Locate the BIOS file you downloaded. Click the file and then choose "Save." Click "Next" to install the latest BIOS version. Restart the computer when the installation is complete.

Tags: Asus BIOS updater, BIOS updater, drop down, Asus BIOS, Asus BIOS, Asus motherboard

Types Of Motherboards Processors And Memory

Motherboards, processors and memory work together to power your computer. If even one of these pieces of hardware is missing, a computer cannot operate. Computer hardware comes in all form factors and sizes. An understanding of what these components do and how they function as one can help aid in purchasing decisions.

Motherboards

Motherboards are designed around the size of the case they're intended for (such as ATX or mini-ATX) and the processor type (such as Socket A or Socket 478). Most motherboards are color-coded, allowing you to easily locate select ports, slots and inputs. Almost all motherboards include multiple PCI slots, a primary graphics card slot (PCI-Express is the standard as of August 2010) and SATA ports for SATA-based hard drives and disc drives.

Processors

The processor (also referred to as the CPU) is the main component of any computer. The processor tells your computer what to do and how fast to do it. As of August 2010, there are two main brands for processors: AMD and Intel. These companies produce processors for all levels of computing, from business to consumer. Intel processors are generally named based around the amount of cores they use, while AMD names are generally based around collective benchmarking results.

Memory

The term "memory" can refer to either RAM (random access memory) or storage (via hard drives). While the term itself is interlaced, knowing the difference between the two is very important as they aren't referring to the same thing. As of August 2010, RAM is measured by GB (gigabytes) and comes in different forms such as: SDRAM, DRAM, DIMM and RIMMs. A motherboard will only support one type of RAM. Hard drives are used to store data and come in different forms such as IDE, ATA and SATA (as of August 2010, SATA has become the standard).

Tags: August 2010, 2010 SATA, August 2010 SATA, based around, different forms

Disable The Onboard Video 4006272r In A Foxconn Rs780 Motherboard

Foxconn RS780's onboard video can be disabled through BIOS.

The Foxconn RS780 motherboard, codenamed "Bengal," offers onboard video, so you do not have to purchase an additional video card. However, onboard video may be insufficient for high-end gaming and graphics programs. If you decide to upgrade your graphics with the installation of a dedicated video card, you should disable the Bengal's onboard video. Although the motherboard should automatically disable the onboard video, if a separate video card is present, you can manually disable the onboard video as well.

Instructions

1. Turn on or restart your computer to access the boot-up screen.

2. Press "Delete" when the "Press [DEL] to enter Setup..." appears at the bottom of the screen.

3. Press your keyboard's "down" arrow three times, and press "Enter" to select "Advanced Chipset Features."

4. Select "Onboard GPU," and press "Enter."

5. Select "Disable...," and press Enter to disable the onboard video completely. Select "Enable if NO Ext GPU" to automatically disable the onboard video, only if a dedicated video card is installed.

6. Press "F10" to save and exit BIOS Setup.

Tags: disable onboard, disable onboard video, onboard video, onboard video, video card, press Enter

Install A 775 Cpu Fan

CPU coolers transfer heat from your processor to prevent it from frying.

Socket 775 CPUs have a lot of electrical impedance, causing them to overheat easily without a fan on a heatsink. To properly cool your CPU, you need a CPU cooler with a fan and heatsink compatible with your socket type. Although you can install incompatible products, you won't get as much conduction out of it as you need. Don't forget you also need thermal paste to conduct the heat onto the metal plate on the CPU cooler.

Instructions

1. Squeeze your thermal paste syringe until a drop leaks onto the center of your CPU's surface. Don't rub the solution around the CPU if you use a ceramic paste. Your fan will spread the thermal solution around on its own while you seat it. With silver-based thermal paste, you can spread it around your CPU's surface until it completely covers it.

2. Place your fan on the CPU and press down on each of the plastic legs, turning around the knob until it locks into place. When the fan no longer moves around the CPU, you know you did your job correctly.

3. Connect your CPU cooler's power cable to the 4-pin connector on your motherboard surface. You can now use your computer without worrying about heat on the CPU.

Tags: thermal paste, solution around, your surface

Use The Hdmi Out On The Asus Eah4350

With an Asus EAH4350 card, you can view your PC on an HDTV.

HDMI output is included with the entire lineup of Asus EAH4350 graphics cards. Using this output port, you can connect your computer to an HDTV or HD projector, letting you enjoy your PC movies and photos on a larger screen. If you've never used the HDMI output on the Asus EAH4350, the process might be confusing. However, Windows offers simple point-and-click options to get your HDMI output set up properly, helping first-time users with the process.

Instructions

1. Plug an HDMI cable into the "HDMI Out" port on your Asus EAH4350.

2. Plug the other end of the cable into your HDTV or HD projector. If you are using the television as your only monitor, your components are hooked up and ready to go. Turn on the TV and your computer's display should appear on-screen. If you're using the HDMI output in conjunction with a regular computer monitor, continue with the next steps.

3. Click on your computer's "Start" button.

4. Click "Control Panel."

5. Click "Adjust Screen Resolution," located underneath the "Appearance and Personalization" heading.

6. Click on the drop-down box next to the "Multiple Displays" label. When using Asus EAH4350 HDMI output along with a traditional monitor, Windows treats the HDMI port as a second computer monitor.

7. Click "Duplicate These Displays" to have your HDTV display a copy of your computer's desktop. For most users, this is the best option, but you can also choose to display on only one screen, or stretch the desktop across the computer monitor and HDMI device.

8. Click "OK" to save your settings and begin using the HDMI device along with your normal computer monitor.

Tags: HDMI output, computer monitor, your computer, Asus EAH4350, your HDTV, along with

Find The Serial Number For A Motherboard

Find the Serial Number for a Motherboard

The motherboard is a central circuit board inside the computer that connects all components of the computer together. Although motherboards vary by brand, key components on each include the processor, connections for peripherals such as the keyboard and mouse, a CPU socket, one or more cooling fans, slots of memory/RAM and connections for drives such as a CD-ROM drive. All motherboards come with a unique serial number for identification purposes.

Instructions

Locating the Serial Number

1. First check the manual for your computer or the manual for the motherboard if you purchased it separately. Often the serial number will be listed on the front or back pages of the manual. Additionally, if you purchased the motherboard individually, check the packaging it came in. Many manufactures include the serial number near the bar code for retail sale purposes.

2. Turn the computer off and unscrew the screws that hold the outer covering in place. Gently remove the outer covering and locate the motherboard, a large circuit board to which everything is connected.

3. Using a flashlight, scan the board for a serial number. Often, the serial and model numbers are listed along the expansion card sockets, long white strips on the left side of the board.

4. Jot down the numbers for your record.

5. If you cannot read the numbers, carefully unplug all items plugged into the motherboard, noting their locations so you can reattach them later, and then unscrew the motherboard. Typically the motherboard is held in place at all four corners. Carefully extract the motherboard from the casing and locate the serial numbers on the board.

Tags: circuit board, Find Serial, Find Serial Number, Number Motherboard, Often serial, outer covering

Increase A Credit Score After Bankruptcy

Increase a Credit Score After Bankruptcy

When you declare bankruptcy, it has a major negative effect on your credit score. You'll suffer consequences, such as being unable to open charge accounts or purchase items on credit, or being forced to pay high interest rates. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to improve your credit score. There is no quick fix, but if you're willing to put in the time, you can improve your score within a year to 18 months.

Instructions

1. Open a charge account at a furniture or appliance store, or another type of retailer that sells big-ticket items. These stores are often more willing to grant you credit after a bankruptcy than charge-card issuers. The account might have a high interest rate, but its value in helping to boost your credit score will be worth the cost.

2. Make a purchase from the store, putting down 50 percent of the item's cost. making a significant down payment will allow you to pay off the account more quickly and help minimize the amount of interest you pay.

3. Open a secured credit-card account. This type of account requires you to secure your Mastercard or Visa by depositing money into a bank account. Choose an issuer that will allow you to convert the account to unsecured status after a specified length of time. If you make your payments on time, this can be in as little as 6 months to a year.

4. As soon as you are able, convert your secured credit card into an unsecured account. The interest rate may be high, but having a regular account that is being paid on time will help boost your credit score.

5. Pay all of your bills on time or early. This includes your new accounts and the payments for any assets you were allowed to keep in the bankruptcy, such as your home mortgage or car loan. Demonstrating that you are handling your finances carefully will make you more attractive to other prospective lenders. Opening and paying additional accounts will increase your credit score.

6. Carefully monitor your credit report to catch any erroneous negative information as soon as it appears. You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus on an annual basis. Get one report every 4 months, which will use up your year's worth of reports. If you catch a mistake, immediately report it to the credit bureau.

Tags: your credit, your credit score, credit score, After Bankruptcy, boost your, boost your credit

Replace The Motherboard In An Hp Zv5000 Laptop

Learn to safely replace your HP Pavilion ZV5000 laptop's motherboard.

Your computer's motherboard is the main circuit board where all components and hardware devices connect to your computer. Without a functioning motherboard, your laptop is basically useless. Replacing your HP Pavilion's motherboard is a tricky procedure. This is because you must remove all components that are attached to your motherboard. There is little working room inside your laptop, which makes it easy to damage fragile components while removing the motherboard.

Instructions

1. Shut down the laptop. Unplug the AC power adapter from its socket. Close the LCD screen, and place the laptop face down. Orient the computer so the front opening is facing toward you. Remove the battery pack from its compartment in the bottom-left corner of the laptop's bottom casing.

2. Remove the single Phillips screw securing the RAM compartment cover to the center of the laptop's bottom casing. Remove the cover from the laptop. Spread the retaining tabs on each side of the memory module. Tilt the module upward at an angle. Pull the module from its memory slot. Repeat this for each module removed. Store the memory module in a static-free plastic bag, if possible.

3. Remove the two Phillips screws securing the combination drive to the upper-left corner of the laptop. The combination drive consists of an optical drive and hard drive. Pull the combination drive from its compartment.

4. Remove the 10 Phillips screws securing the heat sink compartment cover to the upper-right corner of the laptop. Remove the cover. Remove the four spring-loaded screws securing the heat sink to the laptop. Lift the heat sink out of its compartment and set it aside. This will reveal the processor chip.

5. Slide the processor's locking lever slightly to the left to disengage the processor from its socket. Tilt the processor upward at a 90-degree angle, and then carefully remove the processor from the laptop.

6. Remove the three Phillips screws from along the top edge of the bottom casing. Place the laptop face up, and open the LCD screen all the way. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the right side of the keyboard bezel. The keyboard bezel is the thin plastic strip situated over the gap between the keyboard and LCD screen. Pry the bezel from the laptop.

7. Remove the four Phillips screws from behind the top row of keyboard keys. Place the keyboard face down over the palm rest. Disconnect the keyboard's ribbon cable from the motherboard, and then remove the keyboard from the laptop's base.

8. Remove the two Phillips screws that secure the modem module to the upper-right corner of the motherboard. Tilt the right side of the module upward, and then disconnect the modem cable from the motherboard. Remove the modem from the laptop.

9. Disconnect the two antenna cables from the wireless card in the upper-left corner of the motherboard. Spread the retaining clips on each side of the card. Tilt it upward at a 45-degree angle. Remove the wireless card from its slot.

10. Disconnect the LCD video cable extending from the left side of the display panel to the motherboard. Remove the Phillips screws from the front and back of each screen hinge. Carefully lift the display panel from the laptop's base, and set it aside.

11. Flip the base of the laptop over, and remove all remaining screws from the bottom casing. Remove the entire bottom casing from the laptop, and set it aside.

12. Rotate the laptop so the rear panel is facing you. Locate the speaker assembly attached to the front edge of the laptop. DIsconnect the speaker cable, and then remove the single Phillips screw securing the speaker assembly in place. Tilt the speaker assembly upward from the rear, and then remove it from the laptop.

13. Remove the remaining Phillips screws securing the system board in place. Then disconnect all remaining cables from the motherboard. Carefully lift the motherboard out of the laptop, and set it aside.

14. Reverse this procedure to install the new motherboard.

Tags: from laptop, Phillips screws, bottom casing, laptop Remove, Remove Phillips, Remove Phillips screws, screws from

Remove A Processor Amd Athlon And Amd

Be careful not to scratch or crack your motherboard when removing your processor.

Removing an AMD processor can be a hair-raising process. The removal of the processor itself is fairly easy but removing the heatsink/fan (HSF) is the difficult part of the process. AMD's mounting bracket, situated around the physical CPU socket on the motherboard, is notorious for being difficult to work with. In some extreme cases, motherboards have been cracked or damaged by overzealous technicians and system builders; so when removing your AMD CPU, extra caution is recommended.

Instructions

1. Disconnect any cables or plugs that are connected to your computer, including the power supply. Allow the computer to sit for a few minutes to allow the capacitors to discharge.

2. Remove the side panel of your computer's case. There will be mounting screws on the rear of the case holding the panel in place. Mounting screw locations differ wildly from case to case, so consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

3. Using your flathead screwdriver, slide it into the notch on the mounting bracket on the HSF (heatsink/fan). Press down firmly until the mounting bracket slides out of the mount around the CPU socket.

4. Gently lift the HSF back and away from the motherboard, leaving the processor exposed.

5. Gently pull the small, silver lever away from the socket and then up and away from the motherboard. When the lever is perpendicular to the motherboard, gently lift the CPU processor up and out of the socket.

Tags: away from, mounting bracket, away from motherboard, from motherboard, removing your, when removing

Install Sound Drivers For Emachine Computers

The eMachines company mass produces affordable computers to suit the needs of a range of users. These computers often come with outdated drivers that may not function with newer operating systems or programs. Outdated sound drivers can cause audio to perform poorly or prevent sound from working at all. While most PCs offer easy upgrades, eMachines builds computers considered all-in-one units. Updating the sound drivers on these units should increase quality of sound and prevent software conflicts.

Instructions

1. Visit the eMachines support website for drivers (see Resources). Specific eMachines drivers may be required for each PC manufactured by the company.

2. Download the sound drivers for your eMachines model. The website lists these under "Audio drivers."

3. Unzip the driver files. The files come in a .zip folder. Recent versions of Windows have system-based unzip programs.

4. Run the executable program to install the updated drivers. Double-click the .exe file and allow the new drivers to install.

5. Reboot your computer to complete the installation.

Tags: sound drivers

Install A Cpu Socket 478

Socket 478 processors were introduced in 2002 with the release of the Pentium 4 processor. The name comes from the 478 pins on the processor. Installing a socket 478 processor onto a new motherboard is a delicate procedure. It must be done carefully to avoid bending any of the pins on the processor.

Instructions

1. Work on a table with good lighting when installing a processor on a brand-new motherboard.

2. Lift the retention bar next to the processor port. The processor port will look similar to the one displayed in the image.

3. Look closely at the port for the row that is missing two holes (see image). The processor has the same design with two pins missing on one row.

4. Line the processor up to the corresponding holes and carefully insert the processor into the port. Do not force it, or you will damage the processor.

5. Carefully return the retention bar to its locked horizontal position. Your processor is now installed. To install the heat sink, see the link below.

Tags: pins processor, processor port

Replacing An Internal Modem On A Dell Computer

Installing a modem on a Dell computer is easy.

Installing a modem on a Dell computer is a fairly straightforward procedure. Whether it is a dial-up modem or an Ethernet card, the card slots are the same and the internal layout of Dell systems are similar, with only minor differences. The only real drawback to installing a new component on a Dell is that there is not much space inside, making it a delicate operation.

Instructions

1. Save any open files and close all programs running on the PC. Shut down the computer. Wait for the computer to power down and check to make sure that no peripheral devices are running. Unplug the power cable.

2. Remove all peripheral connections from the back of the unit, including the mouse, keyboard, printer and telephone or network cable. Move the unit to a empty table or other flat surface with sufficient space on which to work.

3. Lay the unit on its side with the cover facing up. Most newer Dell units have a release latch on the top panel of the unit, while others have a latch on the back of the unit. Pull back on the release latch; the cover should loosen. If it does not immediately loosen, give the cover a nudge while continuing to pull back on the release latch. Slowly pivot the cover up and away from the unit and set it aside. Touch the power supply unit to get grounded.

4. Rotate the power supply out of the computer by releasing the latch and lifting the power supply unit. It's important to keep the drive power cables clear.

5. Locate the filler bracket of an empty slot. The PCI card slots are usually located to the rear, at the bottom of the unit, just under the motherboard. Turning the Phillip screwdriver to the left, loosen the screw holding the filler bracket in place. Remove the filler bracket and set it aside. Place the screw in a secure location.

6. Locate the card slot just inside the empty bracket. Notice that the slot is divided by a cross bar. Grasp the modem card at the corners with the connector pins facing the connector slot. Align the cutout dividing the connector pins with the cross bar. Carefully, but firmly, push the card into the slot until the card locks into place. The card should make a subtle, but audible snapping sound when it is fully seated. The bracket should be resting neatly inside the empty slot at the back of the unit. Insert the screw into the bracket.

7. Return the power supply unit back into position until the release latch clicks. Rest the drive power cables along the top of the latch.

8. Replace the cover and return the unit to its place, plugging the peripheral cables into their respective connections. Plug in the power and boot up the unit.

9. Install the drivers for the new modem. After the unit powers up, the system should recognize the new hardware added. Insert the installation disk that came with the new modem and run the program. Once the driver files are installed, the modem should function normally.

Tags: power supply, release latch, back unit, filler bracket, power supply unit, supply unit, back release

Find Out Which Graphics Card A Motherboard Supports

A AGP graphics card for a desktop computer.

There are many things you need to consider before purchasing a new graphics card. First you need to know what type of graphic card is compatible with your motherboard and how much space you have inside of the PC tower. Since newer cards use a lot of power, it is also important to check your PCs power supply. The simplest way to find out what type of graphic card is compatible to your motherboard is by looking at the expansion slot and power specifications in the motherboards manual.

Instructions

1. Locate your motherboard's manual. If you don't have one then open up your web browser and enter your motherboard or PC's manufacturer's website.

2. Go to the support page on the manufacturer's website and enter your motherboard's model number.

3. Download the motherboard's manual from the support page.

4. Look for the "expansion slot" section in the manual to check the motherboards expansion slot specifications. If your motherboard uses a AGP expansion slot then write down the version (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0), and the bandwidth (1x, 2x, 4x or 8x). If your motherboard uses a PCI Express expansion slot then write down the amount of lanes (x1, x4, x8 or x16).

5. Look for the "Power Supply" specifications in the manual and write down the power supply's voltage (3.3V,5V or 12V).

Tags: your motherboard, expansion slot, write down, card compatible, enter your, enter your motherboard, expansion slot then

Install Drivers On A Sapphire Ati Hd3650

Install Drivers on a Sapphire ATI HD3650

When you get a new video card such as the Sapphire ATI HD 3650 you need to ensure you have the proper drivers installed. If you use generic drivers you won't be able to take advantage of all of the graphic card features, or display resolutions and advanced settings on the card. It does not take long to install the Sapphire ATI HD 3650 drivers to fully enjoy your new graphics card. Sapphire Tech manufacturers a line of graphics cards with ATI chipsets that handle all of the drivers for its line of cards.

Instructions

1. Go to Sapphire Tech's website (see Resources) and click "Download."

2. Click "Graphic Card" in the first selection menu, "PCI-E" in the second selection menu, "Sapphire HD 3600" in the third selection menu and choose the specific model of HD 3650 graphics card in the "Product Name" menu.

3. Choose your operating system from the drop down box. Choose the latest Catalyst drivers for your Sapphire ATI HD 3650. Click the small floppy disk icon, choose your download location and click "Download." The latest drivers are usually near the top of the list.

4. Extract the driver files using a program such as Winzip. Click "ATI Easy Install," "Next," "Yes" to agree with the license, "Express Installation" and "Next" to finish the driver installation. Restart your computer when prompted to complete the installation process.

Tags: Sapphire 3650, selection menu, click Download, Drivers Sapphire, graphics card

Motherboard Specifications For The Dell Webpc

The Dell WebPC had two slots for RAM.

The Dell WebPC was originally released by Dell on November 24, 1999. The model did not do particularly well and was retired in June 2000.

Processor

The Dell Web PC motherboard came with an Intel Microprocessor that ran at either 66MHz or 100MHz. The level one cache was 32KB, and the level two cache was either 128KB or 256KB. The chip set for this board was the Intel 810.

Memory Slots

The Dell WebPC motherboard had two sockets for memory modules. The sockets supported 32MB, 64MB, or 128MB168-pin PC-100 SDRAM modules. The maximum RAM supported by this motherboard was 256MB.

Ports

The Dell WebPC had many ports including: a 15-pin video connector, an optional 24-pin DVI connector, three USB connectors on the rear panel, a headphone jack, a microphone jack, a speaker jack, an RJ-11 modem port, and an optional RJ-45 LAN port.

Video

The video controller for this model was integrated with the Intel 810 chip set, which had an optional 4MB video cache.

Audio

The audio controller for the WebPC was audio codec ADI 1881.

Tags: Dell WebPC, level cache, with Intel

Fix The Ethernet Port On My Xbox 360

These ports contain small strips of metal that are easy to bend.

Microsoft's Xbox 360 made its debut in 2005. It features top-of-the-line graphics chips, high-definition capability and a built-in ethernet port. Over the last few years, consumers have complained about the ethernet port ceasing to function. While there are many theories on why the ports fail, it is agreed that there are two main fixes for the problem: cleaning the port or using Microsoft's wireless adapter.

Instructions

Cleaning the Ethernet Port

1. Make sure your Xbox 360 is unplugged from the power brick.

2. Dampen a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol.

3. Thoroughly wipe out the ethernet port. Foreign contaminants such as dust and lint can make their way inside, hampering connectivity between the cord and the port.

4. Use the tweezers to realign any of the metal strips contained in the port.

5. Plug your Xbox 360 back into the power brick, and plug your ethernet cable back into the port. Test your connection.

Using Microsoft's Wireless Adapter

6. Purchase Microsoft's Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter and a wireless router, if you do not already have one.

7. Follow the router instructions to activate wireless Internet in your place of residence.

8. Plug the Microsoft's wireless adapter into one of the USB ports in the back of the Xbox 360.

9. Follow the tutorial to connect your wireless adapter to the wireless router.

10. Test your connection. If you're still having problems, contact Microsoft Customer Support at support.xbox.com.

Tags: back into, ethernet port, Ethernet Port, Microsoft wireless, Microsoft wireless adapter

Set Up A Remote For Gigabyte Gama78gms2h

You can use a standard remote to control your computer.

If you are using your computer with a Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H motherboard as an HTPC, you have probably thought about setting up a remote control so that you don't need to use a keyboard and mouse to control the computer. There are two main methods you can use to control your PC by remote control. The first involves using a universal IR (infrared) receiver, and the second involves purchasing a specialized HTPC remote. HTPC remotes have an advantage because they often include a trackpad for moving the mouse cursor as well.

Instructions

USB IR Receiver Method

1. Connect the USB IR Receiver to your computer and place the receiver unit near the screen or monitor with the receiver facing forward. If the cable is not long enough to extend the receiver to a location near the screen, use a USB extension cable.

2. Insert the software disc that came with the receiver and install the included software by following the onscreen prompts. Most IR Receivers include software that manages the incoming signals and routes them to a keyboard button or mouse click.

3. Set up the universal remote by following the instructions that came with the receiver. This process varies for each device, but generally involves choosing a function with the mouse and keyboard, then pressing the button on the remote that you would like to control that function.

HTPC Remote Control Method

4. Connect the USB cable of the receiver unit to the computer and place the unit near the screen or monitor with the receiver portion facing forward. If the cable is not long enough, use a USB extension cable.

5. Insert the software disc that came with the HTPC remote control into the disc drive. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete installation.

6. Synchronize the remote with the receiver by following the included instructions. Some remotes do not require synchronization.

7. Open your favorite media software and test the media buttons on the remote. If you would like to program additional functions, you can set hotkeys in the "Preferences" menu of most applications.

Tags: with receiver, remote control, came with, near screen, that came

Fix A Bad Bios Flash

Flashing the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) on a motherboard allows you to update the current BIOS software with an improved version. However, an interruption during the upgrade progress can lead to a corrupted BIOS. You cannot boot a computer that has a BIOS corrupted due to incorrect flashing. If this is the case, you must use the BIOS Recovery Jumper to repair the BIOS.

Instructions

1. Unplug all power cables leading to your computer. Open the computer casing using a Phillips screwdriver.

2. Locate the three-pin BIOS Recovery Jumper Block. Refer to the manual that came with your motherboard, because the location of the BIOS Recovery Jumper Block differs from each motherboard model. Usually, you can find the BIOS Recovery Jumper Block near the CMOS battery.

3. Change the BIOS Recovery Jumper to recovery mode. Again, refer to the manual that came with your motherboard to complete this task. It involves removing the jumper from the jumper block and attaching it again as specified on the motherboard manual.

4. Close the computer casing using the Phillips screwdriver and attach all power cables leading to your computer. Insert the floppy disk that you used to flash the BIOS earlier and boot up your computer. Flashing the BIOS is automatic and you can determine whether the BIOS in your computer flashed successfully after the light on the floppy drive goes off. Some motherboard models will notify you when the upgrade process has completed.

5. Turn off your computer and open the computer casing again using the Phillips screwdriver. Make sure that your remove the power cables before doing so.

6. Change the BIOS Recovery Jumper to its original position. Close the computer casing using the Phillips screwdriver and boot your computer. It should start normally now.

Tags: BIOS Recovery, BIOS Recovery Jumper, Recovery Jumper, your computer, computer casing, Phillips screwdriver, using Phillips

Motherboard Problems In The Compaq Presario V6000

A computer's motherboard controls communication between devices, provides power to onboard components through built-in circuits and enables both internal and peripheral components to connect to the PC. Thus, if the motherboard in your Compaq Presario V6000 is faulty, the entire computer can be affected. Since other hardware and software issues can mimic a problem with the motherboard, pinpointing the cause of the issue requires troubleshooting.

Hardware Failure

If the computer freezes or powers off intermittently, won't turn on or fails to detect certain hardware components, the motherboard installed to the Compaq Presario V6000 may be dead or failing. Unfortunately, other factors can produce these same symptoms. The setup utility, accessed by pressing F10 on the boot screen, can affect how hardware components can behave and even prevent certain devices from functioning. To restore the setup utility to its default configuration, go to the "Exit" menu; then select "Load Setup Defaults." Press "Enter," and then save and exit the utility. If restoring the system to its default configuration fails to fix the motherboard issues, replace the power adapter, the RAM and the hard drive, in that order. Each of these devices are critical components, and as such, affect how the computer performs.

Blink Codes

The basic input/output system, embedded in the motherboard, is responsible for performing several functions when the computer powers on. One of these functions is to run a power-on self-test, which checks the status of critical hardware components. If the POST detects an issue with a component, it produces a sequence of blinks. This blink sequence is unique for each detected issue. To determine which component is causing the problem, write down the number of blinks. Five blinks indicate an issue with the motherboard, although problems with any component could be related to the board itself.

Flash the BIOS

Flashing, or updating, the BIOS replaces the old BIOS software with a newer version. In most cases, flashing the BIOS is not recommended as mistakes during the upgrade process could render the motherboard unusable, but if the PC is unstable or is exhibiting strange behavior, a BIOS flash could restore the Compaq Presario V6000 to working order. Look up your exact Compaq Presario V6000 product on the HP website; then look up your operating system. Download WinFlash from the Download Drivers and Software page and open the EXE file to begin flashing the BIOS. Confirm that battery is at 100 percent and the AC adapter is plugged into the computer and to the wall before performing the upgrade; if the computer powers off during the update, the notebook may stop working.

Fix Drivers

The motherboard and its devices talk to the operating system via device drivers. If these drivers aren't up-to-date or are buggy, errors may occur, preventing the OS from properly communicating with or interfacing with connected hardware. This becomes especially problematic when central drivers - like the graphics or network drivers - stop working. Click on "Device Manager" from the Control Panel; then expand each category. Double-click a problematic device, and then select "Uninstall" to remove the driver. Restart the Compaq Presario V6000 to reinstall the driver. If reinstalling the device doesn't resolve the issue, run HP Software Update from the Start menu to get the latest HP drivers.

Tags: Compaq Presario, Compaq Presario V6000, Presario V6000, hardware components, computer powers, default configuration

Install An Msinvidia Geforce Graphics Card

Computer motherboard manufacturer MSI paired up with graphical processing unit (GPU) developer NVIDIA to create the GeForce series of graphics cards. The GeForce 500 series -- the most recent models developed for the MSI-NVIDIA GeForce product line -- features DirectX 11.0 support, 3-D high-definition support for up to three displays and NVIDIA PhysX technology.

Graphics cards are installed to an expansion slot on the motherboard. To install an MSI-NVIDIA GeForce graphics card to your computer, your PC must have a PCI Express x16 slot and two eight-pin power connectors.

Instructions

1. Turn off the computer and remove the power cable. Disconnect the monitor plug from the back of the PC. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws from the back of the case cover.

2. Slide the case cover off the computer. Put on an antistatic wrist strap to protect the motherboard and the graphics card from electrostatic damage.

3. Set the computer on its side. Locate the PCI Express x16 slot on the motherboard, which can be found near the back panel, on the opposite side of the peripheral ports.

4. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw from the slot bracket located to the left of the expansion slot. Set the slot bracket aside. Keep the screw in a safe place as you will need to to secure the card in place.

5. Line up the copper contacts on the MSI-NVIDIA GeForce graphics card with the PCI Express x16 slot. Center the metal bracket on the edge of the card between the motherboard and the chassis.

6. Push the card down into the slot until the copper contacts are no longer visible. Don't exert too much pressure on the card as you could damage the motherboard.

7. Find two eight-pin graphics adapter cables coming from the power supply. Connect each cable to the power connectors found on the top-right edge of the card.

8. Insert into the hole located between the chassis and the card's slot bracket the screw that you removed earlier. Screw the metal bracket to the chassis to secure the MSI-NVIDIA GeForce graphics card.

9. Reassemble the computer. Connect the monitor to the DVI or HDMI port on the back of the card.

10. Boot the computer, log in to Windows, and insert the MSI-NVIDIA GeForce CD into the disc drive. If the computer doesn't automatically load the disc software, click "Start" > "Computer," and then double-click the letter assigned to the disc drive.

11. Click "VGA Drivers" and follow the on-screen instructions to install the MSI-NVIDIA GeForce device driver to the computer. Restart the PC when installation is complete.

Tags: MSI-NVIDIA GeForce, graphics card, Express slot, GeForce graphics, GeForce graphics card

Specifications For The Dv5000

The dv5000 is a line of mainstream notebook computers developed by Hewlett-Packard. The company marketed dv5000 notebooks to consumers looking for multimedia-rich desktop replacement computers. HP sold the dv5000 line in both North America and Europe. Standard versions came with a 15.4-inch screen, DVD writer and a one-year warranty. The line has been discontinued.

Identification

A standard model in the dv5000 line measured 14.09 inches wide, 10.39 inches deep and 1.73 inches thick at its thickest point. It weighed 6.57 lbs. before optional upgrades and accessories. HP sold base versions of the dv5000 equipped with a 29.6-watt removable, rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. A 65-watt AC adapter supplied the laptop with external power. Standard versions of the laptop shipped with a remote control, phone cable and user manuals.

Processor, Memory, Storage

HP offered models in the dv5000 with either an Intel Core Duo or an AMD Turion 64 processor. Standard Intel versions featured an Intel Core Duo T2400 processor with a clock speed of 1.83 gigahertz, 2 megabytes of Level 2 Cache and a front-side bus speed of 677 megahertz. Standard AMD versions featured an Intel Turion 64 ML-32 processor with a clock speed of 1.8 GHz and 512 kilobytes of Level 2 Cache. For memory, base versions of the dv5000 came with 1 gigabyte of RAM. A 120GB, 5,400 rpm internal SATA hard drive provided on-board storage space. An integrated six-in-one memory card reader offered room for additional storage.

Display and Multimedia

HP outfitted the dv5000 line with a 15.4-inch high-definition WXGA BrightView widescreen display with a native resolution of 1,280 by 800 pixels. An NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400 graphics card handled video on the laptop. The Go 7400 offered up to 256MB of memory, 128MB of which was discrete. An integrated audio card handled sound on the laptop, playing back audio via a pair of built-in Altec Lansing speakers. HP also equipped base dv5000 laptops with a LightScribe Super Multi DVD writer with double layer support.

Connectivity and Expansion

HP equipped the dv5000 with three methods for connecting to the Internet and local area networks. The first was a 56 kilobits per second fax and voice modem, the second a 10/100 Ethernet card and the third an IEEE 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi card. Additional ports and connections available on the dv5000 included three USB ports, one 15-pin VGA monitor output, one S-video output, one ExpressCard slot, one IEEE 1394 FireWire port, one cable docking connection, one PC Type I or II slot, one 3.5-mm microphone input and one 3.5-mm audio output.

Tags: dv5000 line, Standard versions, base versions, base versions dv5000, came with, card handled

Install An Esata Connector To An Hp M9250f

HP released a mid-range computer in 2008, the HP m9250f, which uses the desktop tower form factor. The m9250f features an Intel Core 2 Quad processor and 4 GB of memory as the standard configuration. The motherboard uses the Micro ATX form factor and was produced by Asus. The motherboard features six internal SATA ports, three of which are used for internal devices. You can install an eSATA connector to the HP m9250f computer to enable external device connectivity at internal SATA speeds.

Instructions

1. Power off the HP computer, if it is on.

2. Remove the side cover by removing the thumb screws.

3. Remove one of the PCI blank covers by removing the attached screw with a Phillips screwdriver.

4. Insert an eSATA connector port into the slot and replace the screw.

5. Connect the eSATA cable to an available SATA port on the motherboard.

6. Replace the side cover and power on the computer. Connect an eSATA device to the port to use it.

Tags: Connect eSATA, eSATA connector, form factor, internal SATA, side cover

Set Bios Memory

Configuring computer RAM takes place in the BIOS settings.

Computer RAM, or random access memory, is a vital part to a computer's performance. The more RAM you have installed on your computer, the faster your computer will run. However, if you have a lot of RAM and do not have the RAM set up properly in the computer's BIOS settings, it will not make much of a difference. The computer's BIOS is a settings menu that you can access before your computer boots into the operating system. This allows you to change settings on the fly, including memory settings.

Instructions

1. Shut down your laptop or desktop computer and turn it back on. When the manufacturer's logo flashes, press the key specified on the bottom of the screen to enter "BIOS Settings." The BIOS access key is usually either "F2" or "Del."

2. Use the arrow keys on the keyboard to scroll through the settings until you reach the "Advanced" section of the "BIOS" settings. You will notice the "Memory Settings" option is on this page.

3. Use the arrow key to select "Memory Frequency" and press the "Enter" key on the keyboard. You will be able to change the settings of the memory now.

4. Use the left and right arrow keys to scroll through the memory settings until you see the word "SPD" appear. This stands for "Serial Presence Detect" and will automatically configure your computer's memory settings to the fastest and most efficient frequency speed.

5. Press the "Enter" key again to save your selection of "SPD" and press the "Esc" key on the keyboard to save the BIOS settings. Press the "Enter" key once more and the computer will reboot with the new memory settings.

Tags: BIOS settings, your computer, memory settings, arrow keys, BIOS settings will

Repair My Cpu Fan On An Hp Computer

The best way to repair an HP computer's CPU cooling fan is by cleaning it.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) chips have a tendency to heat up when used for long periods of time. Keeping the CPU chip at a moderate temperature is essential to the life of your HP computer. If your CPU chip's fan goes bad, or is not cared for, your CPU can overheat and cause irreparable damage to your CPU, motherboard and the surrounding hardware. The most common reason for CPU fan failure is a dirty fan assembly. You can repair your CPU fan by simply cleaning out the fan assembly.

Instructions

1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all cables and devices from the computer. Attach an ESD (Electro-static Discharge) wrist wrap to your wrist. This will prevent damage to your computer's hardware from dormant static electricity. It's a good idea to wait 10 to 20 minutes before you attempt to disassemble your computer.

2. Place the computer on its side and remove the side access panel to reveal the internal components of your HP computer. This process varies for each HP computer model. Refer to your HP computer's disassembly instructions (see Reference 2) for specific instructions on side panel removal.

3. Locate the cooling fan assembly on your HP computer's motherboard. Remove any obstructing hardware devices as directed by your computer's disassembly guide. Disconnect its power cable from the motherboard and remove any Phillips-head screws securing the fan to the motherboard. Lift the fan out of the motherboard.

4. Grasp the fan assembly in one hand and use a compressed air spray can to blow out any large debris from inside the fan assembly.

5. Use a soft cloth or cotton swab to clean out all the dust from inside the fan assembly. Be as thorough as possible and do not apply water or any type of cleaning solution to the fan.

6. Replace the fan and its retaining screws and reconnect the fan power cable to the motherboard. Follow your disassembly guide's instructions to reassemble the computer.

Tags: your computer, computer disassembly, damage your, disassembly guide, from inside, from inside assembly, inside assembly

Jumpstart A Motherboard

Bypassing two pins on your motherboard starts up your computer without a switch.

If your computer's switch stops working, your motherboard no longer receives the signal necessary to turn the computer on. In this case you may either replace the switch, which might take more effort than it's worth, or "hot-wire" your motherboard to allow the power supply rocker switch to turn it on instead. You may find your PSU rocker switch on the back of your computer near the top.

Instructions

1. Remove the power cable from the back of the computer and turn the computer around so the rear faces you.

2. Remove the screws on the left rear-oriented edge. Usually you must remove two or three screws here.

3. Pull back on the left-side cover of the computer and put the cover aside.

4. Look for a header on the motherboard with many labels on it. A header has many pins sticking out of it, and you are looking for the largest one.

5. Look for the pins on the header labeled PW, PWR_SW or POWER. The pair of pins might have a cable connected to it. If you find this cable, remove it.

6. Place a jumper between the two pins all the way to the bottom of the contacts. Reassemble your computer and plug it in. Your computer will come on without the power switch. To turn the computer off, use the switch in the back.

Tags: your computer, turn computer, your motherboard, computer switch, rocker switch, switch back

Make A 12 Volt Dc Power Supply

Make a 12 Volt DC Power Supply

Building DC (direct current) power supplies is a great way to discover the joy of building your own electronics. This 12-volt regulated power supply provides steady, well-regulated, pure DC for any small load requiring 12 volts to operate.

This is an easy project even for a beginner. There's nothing critical in the way you arrange the parts on the perfboard but an orderly layout of the parts will make for a neat wiring job. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Position the perfboard toward one end of the plywood base, leaving 1/2 inch of plywood showing along the sides and end. Using a pencil or fine-point marker, mark the corner hole on the plywood base. You will attach the perfboard to the base using these holes.

2. Mount the power transformer at the opposite end of the base, using the two #8-by-3/8-inch wood screws, with the two black primary winding leads facing the end edge.

3. Turn on the soldering station or plug in the soldering iron and allow it to heat up. When it's hot, clean the soldering iron tip by wiping it on the wet soldering sponge.

4. "Tin" the soldering iron tip by applying a fresh coating of rosin core solder. A properly tinned iron will appear bright and silvery.

5. Mount the full-wave bridge rectifier toward one corner of the perfboard by inserting its four leads through holes in the board. Position it about 3/4 inches in from the side and 1 inch in from the end of the circuit board. Secure the bridge to the board by soldering each lead to the copper eyelet on the opposite side of the board.

6. Once soldered in place, trim the leads so that they project 1/4 inches above the solder eyelet.

7. Make 90-degree bends in the leads on the axial-lead electrolytic capacitor and pass them through two holes on the perfboard. Position the capacitor so that it's opposite the rectifier bridge on the board. Secure it in place by soldering its leads to the eyelets just as you did with the bridge.

8. Mount the three terminal voltage regulator centered, an inch or two in front of the rectifier bridge and capacitor.

9. Using a fine-point permanent marker, mark the terminals of the rectifier bridge on the solder side of the board. The two center connections are the AC terminals and may be marked with "AC" or with a sine wave symbol (~). the outer two connections are the positive and negative DC output terminals and marked with a (+) and a (-) sign on the front of the bridge.

10. Using the fine-point marker, mark the three terminals on the solder side of the board for the three-terminal voltage regulator IC (Integrated Circuit.) The terminals are numbered 1, 2 and 3, with 1 being the DC input terminal, 2 being the ground terminal and 3 being the DC output terminal.

11. Cut two 24-inch-long pieces of hook-up wire for the output leads, one black piece and one red piece, stripping 1/2 inches of insulation from their ends.

12. Using the tinned buss wire, create a circuit trace between the negative lead of the capacitor and the negative bridge terminal.

13. Repeat Step 12 for the positive side of the circuit.

14. Using a short piece of red hook-up wire, connect the #1 terminal on the voltage regulator to the positive buss wire.

15. Using a short piece of black hook-up wire, connect the #2 terminal to the negative buss.

16. Connect the red output lead to the #3 output terminal of the regulator and the black output lead to the negative buss.

17.Solder the two yellow secondary leads coming from the transformer to the AC terminal on the bridge.

18. Mount the circuit board on the wood base using the four #8-by-5/8-inch wood screws and the four 3/8-inch-by-1-inch tubular standoffs.

19. Solder the two black transformer primary leads to the cord set leads. Insulate the joints using the heat shrink tubing.

Tags: base using, hook-up wire, marker mark, rectifier bridge, side board, soldering iron

Install An Hp Cpu Cooler

An HP desktop computer uses a CPU cooling fan and heat sink assembly to keep the processing unit's temperature at an acceptable level, within the component's standard operating temperature. If a CPU cooler is not installed, the computer would be unable to regulate the temperature of the central processing unit. Crashes or complete hardware failure could occur due to overheating.

Instructions

1. Shut off the HP desktop computer. Turn the computer tower around and loosen the thumbscrew on the side panel. Pull the side panel off the computer. Start from the top and tilt the rest out.

2. Disconnect the power cable connecting the heat sink fan and the motherboard. Press the latch to which the heat sink clip is attached. Unhook the clip from the latch. Tilt the heat sink slightly until you can slip the other clip free. Remove the heat sink from the computer.

3. Remove the plastic over the thermal paste on the bottom of the new heat sink. The AMD CPU socket on the latest HP desktop computers uses a AM2+ socket. The stock heat sink uses clips on each side of the CPU socket to secure it to the motherboard.

4. Lower the heat sink and fan into place on top of the HP's CPU. Tilt the assembly to one side as you lower it, until the clip on the side of the heat sink catches the latch on the CPU socket. Lower the other side of the cooling assembly and press the clip in until it latches.

5. Turn the lever on the side of the heat sink 180 degrees. This locking lever keeps the heat sink in place on the motherboard. Connect the fan's power cable to the small power pins on the motherboard, next to the CPU socket. Slide the HP's side panel into place and tighten the thumbscrew. Connect the cables.

Tags: heat sink, side panel, desktop computer, into place, power cable, processing unit, side heat

Identify Different Pin Connectors

The main power connector for a motherboard has 20 or 24 pins.

There are two main types of internal connectors for a computer -- socket (or header) connectors and power connectors. Socket connectors connect various components via flat ribbon cables. These cables transfer data from one component to another. Power connectors are of various colors and are used to supply power to various components within the computer. All these connectors have pins or leads. Pins are metal bits used to attach the connector to a component. The number of pins often is the main clue to the identification of a specific connector.

Instructions

Identifying Internal Computer Connectors

1. Locate a power connector with a single row of four pins and four wires extending from it to the power supply. This 4-pin power connector is intended to supply power to hard disk drives, optical drives or floppy disk drives. Floppy drive connector may be slightly smaller.

2. Find a power connector with two rows of 10 or 12 pins and an equivalent number of wires extending to the power supply. This is an ATX 20- or 24-pin power connector and is used to supply power directly to the motherboard. Sometimes a power supply will have a 20-pin connector and a 4-pin adapter (two rows of two pins each) that can be used for motherboards with either pin count. In a 20-pin motherboard, the 4-pin adapter will not be used.

3. Locate a smaller power connector with a single row of three or four pins and wires extending to the case fan. This connector is used to connect the fan to the motherboard.

4. Find a power connector with a flat end (usually black) with a single row of 15 pins and five wires extending to the power supply. This is a SATA power connector. If a computer has a serial ATA hard drive (or other SATA device), it may have a specific SATA power connector used to power this device. Other hard drives are usually powered by the 4-pin power connector.

5. Locate a power connector with two rows of three pins. The connector will also have three yellow wires and three black wires. This is a 6-pin PCI card connector for some video cards that require additional power. Not all computers will have this power connector. Some PCI connectors have eight pins either in the form of two rows of four pins each or two additional pins and two additional black wires. Some high power consumption graphics cards require these additional pins.

6. Find a flat gray cable with a 40-pin header (two rows of 20). This is a 40-pin socket connector used for connecting an IDE or ATA devices, such as hard disk drives and optical drives to the computer's motherboard. This connector transfers data rather than power. Some computers may have similar-looking cables with 50-pin headers for connecting SCSI hard disks.

7. Locate a connector with a flat end (usually black) with seven pins attached to a flat cable. This is the SATA data cable that connects a SATA device to the motherboard.

8. Find a 29- or 32-pin connector with a wide, flat end (usually black) with flat cables attached. This is a Serial Attached SCSI connector that connects SAS devices to the motherboard. Most modern computers will not have this type of cable.

Tags: power connector, connector with, power connector with, connector used, power supply

Mount Standoffs

Standoffs elevate one object over another.

Standoffs are metal or plastic devices designed to elevate one object over the top of another. Typically found in electronics to stagger circuit boards, standoffs also help maximize space usage in a computer or other electronics device. Regardless of the application, you can mount standoffs in a similar fashion. All that you need is the proper hardware to mount them. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find the holes in the circuit board that are designed for mounting screws or clips.

2. Place the washers included with the standoffs on the screws used to mount the standoffs. Run the small screws supplied with the standoffs through the bottom of the lower board. The washers should be in contact with the board.

3. Thread the screws into the bottom portion of the standoff.

4. Place the washers on top of the standoffs. Set the upper board on top of the standoffs, so that the holes on the upper board align with the threaded holes on the standoff's post.

5. Lay another set of washers on top of the upper board. Thread the supplied screws through the upper board and into the standoffs.

6. Tighten each screw by hand with the appropriate screwdriver. Do not over-tighten; this can crack the board.

Tags: upper board, board Thread, elevate object, elevate object over, mount standoffs, object over, object over another

Install Lga775 Pushpins

The LGA775 motherboard is used for some of the most powerful CPUs on the market today.

Heat sink cooling units for the Intel LGA775 motherboard often use pushpins rather than threaded mounting posts and nuts to secure the mounting bracket or housing to the holes provided for them on the board. These pins are convenient because you do not have to turn the motherboard upside down to attach nuts to the mounting posts. They are also quite easy to open and remove when you want to remove your cooler to clean or upgrade it. You can even install heat sinks that use LGA775 push pins without removing the motherboard from your computer case frame.

Instructions

1. Attach the LGA775 mounting bracket to the bottom of the heat sink by inserting and tightening the screws that are provided by the manufacturer if you are installing a heat sink that requires a separate bracket.

2. Align the pushpins with the four mounting holes that surround your CPU on your LGA775 motherboard. Make sure the points of the pushpins are centered in the mounting holes.

3. Press down simultaneously on both pushpins on the left or right vertical side of the bracket or cooler so that they click firmly into place.

4. Repeat the process for the pushpins on the other side.

Tags: LGA775 motherboard, heat sink, mounting bracket, mounting holes, mounting posts

Install The Ati Radeon With Intel Onboard Video

Some Intel motherboards come with an onboard video chip that provides limited graphic capabilities in lieu of a separate video card. If you later decide to add in a discrete video card, such as the ATI Radeon, the Intel onboard video may interfere. You can disable the onboard video card so the ATI Radeon can be used without any conflicts between the card and the motherboard's chip.

Instructions

1. Go to "Start." Type "devmgmt.msc" in the search window. Click the "devmgmt.msc" entry once it appears in the search results. The device manager appears with many different hardware entries.

2. Click "Display Adapters" to access the onboard video card drivers. Double-click the Intel graphics chip to access its properties. Clear the check mark labeled "Exists in all hardware profiles."

3. Restart your computer and return to Device Manager and the Intel's graphics properties. Check "Disabled in this hardware profile." Shut your computer down.

4. Pull the power cable, peripheral cables and the monitor cable out of your computer. Unscrew any fastening screws holding the side panel of the computer case. Slide the panel off. Your case may not have any screws holding on the panel but instead buttons, latches or a side window to open. Allow the computer to cool down before going inside the case.

5. Remove the metal cover to the side of the video card's interface slot. The ATI Radeon comes in PCI, AGP and PCI-E versions. All three of these interface slots are in the same area of the computer case, in the lower left hand side. You can match up the Radeon's metal tabs with the slot or check the graphic card's box to find out the proper interface. Slide the card's tab into the slot with firm pressure along the entire card. Secure the ATI Radeon into the computer by screwing it into the case chassis where you removed the slot cover at. Connect the power cable into the back of the card and close the case. When you reinsert the cables in the back of the computer, put the monitor cable into the ATI's interface port and not the motherboard.

Tags: video card, onboard video, your computer, cable into, computer case, Intel graphics

Replace The Hard Drive Of A Sony Vaio

Keyboard retention cover on a typical laptop.

Changing the hard drive on many laptops is as simple as removing two or three screws and sliding or pulling the drive directly out of the case. In other systems you need to remove a cover, a few more screws and sometimes a rugged bracket or cage surrounding the drive. On many models of the Sony Vaio laptop the process is more complicated because the hard drive is located below the keyboard, deep inside the system. This design increases the risk of damaging the laptop.

Instructions

Removing the Sony Vaio Laptop Hard Drive

1. Back up all data on the drive by burning discs to back up media or by copying or backing up files to an external hard disk drive before beginning the replacement operation. Attach the anti-static wrist strap to a grounded object before opening the laptop case to prevent static discharge from damaging the components inside the laptop.

2. Power down the laptop and remove the battery. Open the lid wide and locate the keyboard retention cover, which is the thin, flat plastic strip that runs between the keyboard and the hinges, often covering the speakers or the special function buttons on the Vaio. Gently pry this plastic strip from the case, starting at one end and being careful not to scratch or dent the plastic on the retention cover or the laptop itself. Also avoid breaking any of the plastic tabs that hold it in place.

3. Remove the keyboard retention screws, which are located under the keyboard retention cover. Lift the keyboard up and out of the way without disconnecting the keyboard cable, if possible.

4. Remove the screws holding the hard drive mounting bracket in place. Gently disconnect the cable attaching the hard drive to the motherboard. Remove the hard drive and mounting bracket from the laptop as an assembly. Remove the hard drive from the bracket.

Replacing the Hard Drive

5. Install the hard drive into the mounting bracket in the same orientation that the old drive came out.

6. Place the mounted hard drive into the laptop and connect the cable to the motherboard. Replace the screws holding the hard drive bracket in place. Replace the keyboard. Screw the keyboard securely to the case.

7. Replace the keyboard retention cover gently by pressing one side down and working across until the cover snaps into place. Replace the battery and attach the power cord. Boot the computer with the operating system disc or the system recovery disc in the drive.

8. Install the operating system, security updates, device drivers, utility software and any other applications or games that are desired by following the prompts on the screen. Restore selected data from the back-up media or external hard drive.

Tags: hard drive, retention cover, keyboard retention, hard drive, keyboard retention cover, mounting bracket