Thinkpad G40 - possible CPU upgrade

[kbrzozka]

Hello,
I've bought a second-hand G40. Its CPU (Pentium 4) runs at 2,4 GHz. An internet research showed that IBM used processors up to
Pentium4 3 GHz. Is it possible to install a higher CPu (e.g. Pentium 3,4)? What about heat dissipation? Is standard heatsink sufficient?
I've read that G40 uses a desktop CPU (S 478). It would be nice to boost the computer... But on the other hand, I don't want to get into trouble by wanting to much.
Any feedback appreciated.
Regards

Christopher

[schen]

As far as I know, you are right about the G40 using desktop CPUs. In regard to upgrading to a maximum level though, there are a couple of things to think about.

*If you really intend to put a faster CPU in the machine, you can go to Lenovo and download the Hardware Maintenance Manual for your machine and see if there was a different part number for the heatsinks for the faster CPU than the one you have.

*Secondly, I'd examine the other specs of your system before deciding to do anything with the CPU. Quite often, an upgrade in CPU like 2.4 to 3.0 isn't nearly as significant as it might seem. Whereas moving to a bigger and/or faster 5400rpm (or better yet 7200rpm) HDD will make a huge difference if your machine still has a 4200rpm. The newer faster spinning HDDs also typically have a higher Ariel density as well as a much larger cache as well. I'd also consider checking the RAM and if you have less than 1Gb; upgrading to at least that level. These 2 upgrade will quite often get you machine plenty fast enough.

Good luck.