Tutorial - How to make your laptop faster?

By Renaud Labracherie (@RLesnumeriques)Share:

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For several months your laptop seems to be dragging its feet: it takes a morning to start up, file copying is endless and the slightest mouse action presents an unbearable latency. Don't panic, we have a solution.

Dismantling the casing: remove the screws

Responsiveness and storage problems eventually arrive on your computer after several years of use. If you can “clean up” your operating system using specific software, there are more radical, but often more effective operations, in particular the addition of RAM or a high-performance SSD. Before buying the necessary elements, check the compatibility of the elements with your computer.

First, you need to disassemble the case of your computer to access the various parts to be replaced. Using a Phillips screwdriver, you need to remove the screws located under the machine. Be careful, some may be hidden under the runners or behind a non-slip block. Count the number of screws removed and place them in a container so as not to lose them. You can also use a piece of cardboard to "plant" your screws in the order of disassembly and thus easily find them.

Detach the cover

Once the screws have been removed, you can lift the cover using a pick. This small piece of plastic makes it possible to perform a lever arm without damaging the chassis. You may hear small clicks: this is completely normal, because it is the unclipping of the cover that causes the noise.

Identify the parts to change: the RAM

To avoid electrical problems, we recommend that you remove the battery from the computer or disconnect it depending on the model.

To change the RAM (memory), check the direction of insertion of your bar. To remove the initial bar, simply push the two latches on the sides. The bar rises and you can then remove it. On most models, you will notice the presence of a punch at the level of the connectors, which is not central. This makes it possible to correctly orient the bar at the time of insertion. Once in its housing, just press the bar and wait for the latches to block the RAM on the sides.

Identify the parts to change: the SSD

For permanent storage, you should also check the format of your SSD. There are currently two main formats:

For the NVMe format, you must identify the connection location. As with memory modules, the SSD has a punch at the connectors, which acts as a polarizer. Can't put it in the wrong way. Once in its housing, you must align the SSD on the screw thread to screw it.

Test before screwing

Before putting everything back together, it is best to test that the computer is working properly with the new elements. Simply clip the cover back on and start the laptop. If everything is working properly, you can then screw the cover back on securely.

Editor-in-chief and "great" evangelist of RAW, he is also passionate about all forms of cooking.