It’s important to periodically check the internal components of your laptop to ensure it continues running properly and to identify any potential issues before they lead to failure. According to Cellbotics, over 40 million laptops needed repair and maintenance in the U.S. alone in 2020. Regular inspection allows you to spot problems like dust buildup, loose connections, failing fans, or worn out parts. Catching these early on can prevent catastrophic failures down the road and extend your laptop’s lifespan. Internal checks also provide insight into your laptop’s health and can help determine if upgrades may be worthwhile. Keeping tabs on components like the CPU, RAM, hard drive, and wireless card allows you to monitor performance and condition so you can take action before issues arise.
Safety Precautions
Before working on the internal components of your laptop, it’s important to take some basic safety precautions. According to Dell Support (https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000137973/safety-precautions-when-working-with-electrical-equipment), you should discharge any static electricity by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface. Static electricity can damage sensitive internal components. You should also unplug the laptop and remove the battery before opening it up.
Additionally, Quora users explain (https://www.quora.com/What-protects-the-hardware-components-inside-a-laptop-from-excessive-heat-that-the-CPU-and-GPU-produce-E-G-Keyboard-SSD-Parts-of-the-motherboard-etc) that high temperatures from the CPU and GPU can damage internal components over time. That’s why proper cooling and maintenance is necessary. Avoid working in hot or humid environments.
Only work on a clean, dry surface that’s free of static electricity. Avoid carpets or blankets. Also be sure to use anti-static wrist straps if you have them. With some simple precautions, you can safely work on the internals of your laptop.
Needed Tools
Before opening up your laptop, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper tools on hand. Some essential items you’ll need include:
Screwdrivers
You’ll need a set of precision screwdrivers in order to remove the screws from your laptop case. Look for a kit that includes both Phillips and Torx screwdrivers in small sizes like 0, 00, and 000. A good option is this 140-piece laptop repair kit from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/laptop-repair-tool-kit/s?k=laptop+repair+tool+kit).
Prying tools
Plastic prying tools, spudgers, or guitar picks can help you gently separate the case and pry components apart once inside. This kit from Amazon includes various prying tools designed for electronics repair (https://www.amazon.com/Computer-Repair-Kits/b?ie=UTF8&node=13825561).
Compressed air
Having a can of compressed air on hand allows you to safely blow out any dust that has accumulated inside your laptop. Make sure to avoid holding the can upside down as this can shoot out freezing liquid.
Cleaning supplies
Cotton swabs, isopropyl alcohol, microfiber cloths, etc. can help you gently clean components once you have access inside the laptop case. Be sure to avoid getting liquids directly on any boards or connections.
Opening the Case
The first step in checking the internal components of a laptop is to open the case. This requires finding and removing all case screws. Look on the bottom of the laptop and along the edges for screw covers that need to be popped open with a flathead screwdriver to access the screws. Be very careful when prying open the laptop case—you don’t want to break any plastic clips or tabs. A good prying tool is a thin plastic card, like an expired credit card or guitar pick. Slowly insert the card between the seam in the case and gently pry until the case releases. Pry along each side little by little to avoid breaking anything. Refer to service manuals for your specific laptop model, as case designs can vary.[1]
Once the bottom case is off, you’ll have access to components like the RAM, wireless card, and hard drive. Removing the keyboard may require loosening screws under key caps. Keep track of all screws and parts. The display needs to be removed to access the main system board and heatsink/fan. This requires detaching display cables and hinge covers. Again, go slowly and refer to disassembly instructions for your laptop.[2]
[1] https://www.crucial.com/articles/pc-builders/disassemble-and-rebuild-a-laptop
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/pcmasterrace/comments/p4th6f/any_tips_on_how_to_open_a_laptop_i_removed_all/
Checking the CPU
The CPU or processor is one of the most important components of a laptop. To check the CPU, first locate it inside the laptop. The CPU is usually underneath a heat sink and cooling fan assembly. Gently remove the heat sink to expose the CPU chip.1
Carefully inspect the CPU for any signs of damage like burnt spots or bent pins. Also look for any debris or old thermal paste residue that needs cleaning off. Reapply a small dot of fresh thermal paste on the CPU before reattaching the heat sink.2 Having proper thermal paste application ensures the CPU stays cool and performs optimally.
You can also check the CPU model, cores, speed, and other details without opening up the laptop. In Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and go to the Performance tab. This will display the key CPU information.3 Checking the CPU periodically helps spot potential problems before they lead to more serious laptop issues.
Checking RAM
The RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the most important components to check in your laptop. RAM provides short-term data storage that the processor can quickly access to run programs and processes. Over time, dust buildup can cause RAM issues, so it’s important to check for problems and clean the RAM if needed.
To check your RAM, you’ll first need to locate it. The RAM modules are often underneath a panel on the bottom of the laptop. Refer to your specific laptop model’s manual to find out how to access the RAM. Once you have located the RAM slots, check that the modules are fitted snugly in place. Reseat them by gently removing and replacing if they seem loose.
You can test your RAM’s functionality by running the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters, and select “Memory” under Diagnostic Tools. The tool will restart your laptop and run intensive tests on the RAM, checking for faults.
To clean the RAM modules, use a can of compressed air to blow away any dust buildup on the chips and slots. Avoid touching the chips directly. If you see signs of corrosion or damage, you may need to replace the RAM. Upgrading to a higher capacity RAM module can also help improve performance.
When reassembling the laptop, carefully reconnect the RAM and replace any brackets or screws to secure it back in place. Double check that the RAM is seated properly before closing up the laptop.
Properly checking, cleaning and replacing your RAM can solve random crashes, blue screens, slow performance, and other issues caused by failing or insufficient memory.
Checking Hard Drive
The hard drive is one of the most important components in a laptop. It stores all of your programs, files, and operating system. To access the hard drive, you’ll need to open up the laptop case. The hard drive is usually located under the keyboard or on the bottom panel, secured by a few screws. Remove those screws and unplug the hard drive cable to remove it from the system.
Before replacing the hard drive, it’s a good idea to check its health using S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology). This can alert you to potential hard drive issues before failure. On Windows, open the Command Prompt as Administrator and type “wmic diskdrive get model, status” to check S.M.A.R.T. status [1]. There are also several third party apps like CrystalDiskInfo and Hard Disk Sentinel that provide more detail [2].
If the hard drive is failing, be sure to back up your data before replacing it. An external hard drive enclosure can help access the data if the laptop isn’t recognizing the drive. Once backed up, you can replace the hard drive with a new solid state or traditional hard drive. Make sure it’s compatible with your laptop.
Checking Wireless Card
The wireless card allows your laptop to connect to WiFi networks and the internet without cables. It’s important to check that the wireless card is working properly. Here’s how to inspect and potentially replace the wireless card in your laptop:
To locate the wireless card, you’ll need to open up your laptop. The wireless card is often a small circuit board near the RAM slots or PCI slots. Refer to your laptop’s service manual to find the exact location.
Once located, check that the wireless card is properly seated in its slot. Reseat the card by removing it and inserting it again if needed. Examine the card for any obvious damage or worn components.
You can test if the wireless card is functioning by booting into Windows and checking if WiFi networks are detected. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections to see if your WiFi adapter is listed and working properly. You can also use the Windows device manager to check the wireless card.
If the wireless card is damaged or not functioning, you’ll need to replace it. Make sure to buy a compatible replacement wireless card for your laptop model. Follow your service manual to properly remove the old card and install the new one.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance helps keep your laptop in good working condition. Over time, dust buildup inside the laptop can cause overheating and performance issues. Using compressed air is an easy and safe way to blow out dust without damaging any internal components.
You’ll need a can of compressed air, such as Dust-Off Disposable Compressed Gas Duster. Make sure to follow the safety precautions listed on the can. Hold the laptop at an angle and spray compressed air into the vents, cooling fans, and other openings. This will blow out most of the dust and debris.
For more thorough cleaning, open up the bottom panel to access the inside. Use short bursts of compressed air to blow away dust from the CPU, RAM, graphics card, wireless card, and other components. Avoid touching these parts directly to prevent damage from static electricity.
Replacing old thermal paste between the CPU and heatsink can also improve cooling performance. Use a high quality thermal paste like Arctic Silver and apply it evenly following the paste manufacturer’s instructions.
After cleaning the inside of your laptop, reassemble any components and panels. Your laptop will run cleaner and cooler, extending its useful life. Perform this maintenance every 6-12 months or as needed.
Reassembling the Laptop
When putting your laptop back together after inspection, be sure to take care in reattaching all components properly. Closing up the case carefully is important to avoid any issues down the line.
First, reattach any internal cables, being careful not to pinch or crimp any wires. Make sure connectors are fully inserted. Refer to your disassembly photos if needed to ensure cables are routed correctly.
Next, reseat the larger components like the hard drive, RAM, and wireless card in their proper sockets. Double check that retaining screws or clips are fully fastened.
Before closing up the case, reconnect the battery and turn on the laptop briefly to test functionality. Check that the keyboard, trackpad, screen, wireless, and ports are working properly.
Finally, replace the bottom case and/or top lid. Tighten screws incrementally to avoid cracking the case. Take care not to overtighten the screws.
Following careful, methodical steps in reassembly can help avoid issues like rattling parts or wires getting pinched. Referring to disassembly photos, using proper tools, and testing connections along the way will lead to a smooth reassembly process.