In this Dell laptop tutorial we are going to show you how to install and replace the CPU Processor on your Dell Inspiron N5040 / N5050 / M5040 laptop. These installation instructions have be made into 10 easy to follow printable steps. We have also create a video tutorial that shows you how to install your Dell Inspiron N5040 / N5050 / M5040 CPU Processor.
Before you begin
Please take the time read the following safety guidelines when working on static sensitive electrical components.
Dell repair manual service precautions
Tools needed for this laptop repair
- 1 x small phillips head screwdriver
- 1 x small flat head screwdriver
- 1 x small plastic scribe
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Video tutorial repair manual
Installation and Removal Instructions
Dell Inspiron N5040 / N5050 / M5040 CPU Processor

Step 1
- Slide the locking latch over.
- Slide the battery latch to the left and the battery out.
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Step 2
- Remove the 2 hard drive screws.
- Remove the 11 bottom palmrest screws.
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Step 3
- Turn the laptop over and open it up.
- Press in the 4 keyboard clips to loosen the keyboard.

Step 4
- Carefully lift the keyboard and turn it over.
- Unplug the keyboard cable.

Step 5
- Loosen the 2 top palmrest screws. You will not be able to remove them completely.

Step 6
- Unplug the 2 palmrest cables.
- Carefully unsnap and lift off the palmrest.

Step 7
- Unplug the fan cable.
- Unplug the LCD cable.
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Step 8
- Loosen the 4 heatsink screws.
- Carefully lift the heatsink fan off of the motherboard.

Step 9
- Turn the CPU Locking screw counterclockwise approximately 180 degrees, or until the CPU is loose.
- Remove the CPU.

Step 10
- Installation note 1: Make sure to replace thermal compound or thermal pads on the CPU and heatsink.
- Installation note 2: Tighten the heatsink screws in the order listed on the heatsink.
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