Replacing your dell laptop motherboard

Motherboards are the internal brains of your notebooks.  They manage all of your peripherals, accessories and components like the lcd panel, keyboard, hard drive, etc...  Motherboard problems arise due to overheating from improper air ventilation, user accidents like spill damage and power related issues.  Many common problems are easily traced back to motherboard failure and when diagnosed properly, a replacement will be necessary.  When going into the marketplace to purchase a replacement dell laptop motherboard, you need to have several pieces of information prior to making your purhcase.  The first step is to have the right part number of the motherboard.  This number is located in our around the memory banks or in another location on the motherboard.  With Dell systems, the part number begins with the letters; DPNxxxx or CNxxx and also XGxxxx.

Once you have the part number of your motherboard you are ready to purchase the right system board for your notebook.  You have several options in the marketplace; refurbished, used, and new.  You may also have the option to upgrade the motherboard, but you will need to confirm with your vendor prior to purchasing.  Refurbished boards were either repaired to working order by the manufacturer or a third party.  Used boards were pulled from laptops and in most cases are fully tested to be in working condition.  Contact your vendor to confirm the condition and also make sure you are protected by a warranty in case the motherboard fails.  Replacing the motherboard on your own is a daring venture if you are not experienced in computer repair.  It would be wise to have a certified technician do the repair for you, on the other hand, you could also save some money by purchasing the motherboard on your own and then having it installed.

These motherboards are very fragile, make sure you vendor ships it in an ESD bag and if you are installing it yourself, make sure you are grounded and working in an anti static environment.  I have seen countless boards get damaged due to user negligence.  The motherboard has clips and chips that are easily broken off when not properly handled.  Connectors are also susceptible to damage when pulled or tugged on with too much force.