Putting an i7-740QM on my Dell Inspiron N4010
Putting an i7-740QM on my Dell Inspiron N4010
Today I looked for RAM to upgrade my Dell Inspiron N4010. If it gets upgraded, it will go to my sister’s machine. I searched for a SO-DIMM DDR3 4GB at 1333MHz so I could move to an 8GB dual channel setup. These parts are quite pricey. For my gaming laptop, I’m planning a switch to a dual channel 16GB DDR4 at 2666MHz! After fixing the Dell Inspiron, I discovered the CPU is swappable and can be upgraded. So I checked the fastest Intel Core i Series from the 1st generation mobile lineup. I thought it might be the i7-840QM, but it isn’t available in my country. I’m considering the i7-740QM instead. I’m unsure if the laptop’s internal cooler can manage a quad-core i7 processor—around 45 watts, similar to my gaming laptop’s current spec. I plan to install a Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut to handle it. The Dell Inspiron N4010 (14-inch, stock) is i3-370M with thermal paste everywhere and 2GB DDR3 at 1333MHz. It has a 320GB HDD—maybe I should ask my grandson if it’s still running. Windows 7 Ultimate 32-bit is stuck in 32 bits; I’m pretty sure it’s outdated. Upgrading plan: i7-740QM with 4 cores, 8 threads—perfect! It can even run Google in the background. I’ll add an 8GB DDR3 at 1333MHz (I can open it easily). A 256GB SSD is now in the mix (the snail turned into a V10). Windows 10 Pro 64-bit is installed. The blue model looks great, and I need to fix the power button connector—I broke it while working.
It seems you're dealing with an older machine that doesn't support DDR4. This laptop is essentially a 2003 model with an 8GB hard drive limit and struggles with high temperatures. The 15R model can handle the 740QM better thanks to its cooler design. You're probably looking for something more modern with better performance and thermal management. Consider upgrading to a newer laptop with a solid processor and adequate cooling, or look for a refurbished unit that meets current standards.
I don't understand where you're checking—it's costly... DDR3 SODIMMs are really affordable these days (around $30 for 2x4GB). From my experience, these components are extremely powerful. A cooler built for an i3 won't suffice, let alone handle the heat and power demands. Even in a laptop meant for it, mine would run at around 50°C after cleaning and repairs, and battery life was only a few minutes. TL;DR: Avoid this.
What CPU should I choose? You mentioned your gaming laptop uses an i5-8300H and you're not using a Dell Inspiron. Maybe a mid-range i5 from the 1st generation would work better. If that's not possible, a quad-core processor would be ideal for your needs.
The i5 540M looks solid! I recently added a 2GB DDR3 1333MHz RAM from my Dell Vostro 2420 to my Dell Inspiron N4010. It really boosted performance. The device now feels more like a 2016 model.
The i5-540M only supports DDR3 memory up to 1066 MHz. Your system might be running at a higher frequency due to a different component or settings, but it can't utilize the full speed of your RAM.