Can you add a second CPU to a laptop?

Expanding Your CPU

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By Cameron Sherber
Can you add a second CPU to a laptop?

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Small businesses that are plagued by sluggish computers can benefit from expanding their computers' CPU capabilities. CPU expansion is a simple and cost effective way to increase the machine's speed and lifespan. Business owners interested in stepping up their computers' speed and overall performance without breaking the bank would do well to consider CPU expansion.

Adding RAM

Installing additional memory, or RAM, is an easy and affordable way to expand the capabilities of a computer's CPU. Not only will a RAM upgrade provide you with faster Web surfing speeds, it will also enable you to run multiple programs at once without slowing down your PC. As technology is constantly evolving and computer applications require more memory to run smoothly, making sure your computer is equipped with at least one to two gigabytes of RAM will go a long way in helping you get the most out of the machine.

Graphics Card Upgrade

Upgrading a computer's graphics card is another effective way to step up the machine's CPU capabilities. A high quality graphics card is often a necessity for computers that run top-of-the-line graphic design and animation programs. While generally more expensive than RAM upgrades, equipping a PC with a highly capable graphics card is often less costly than a complete computer upgrade.

Adding an Additional CPU

Adding another processor to your computer's motherboard can significantly increase the machine's CPU capabilities. But before committing to purchase a second processor, confirm that your PC's motherboard features an additional CPU slot. If not, you're out of luck -- unless, of course, you're up for replacing the machine's motherboard. In addition, make sure the second processor boasts the same specifications as the original. This is key to ensuring that the two processors are able to work in tandem.

Dual-Core Processor

If your computer's motherboard doesn't feature a second CPU slot, look into purchasing a dual-core processor. Although they only require a single CPU slot, dual-core processors essentially do the job of two separate processors. As is the case when purchasing RAM sticks or graphics cards, make sure the dual-core processor you're interested in purchasing is compatible with your machine's motherboard before shelling out the cash. Alternatively, if you plan to upgrade your company's computers, limit your search to machines that come equipped with dual-core processors.

References

  • Computer Memory Upgrade: Why More RAM Is Better
  • PCWorld: How to Upgrade Your Graphics Card
  • Home Recording Connection: Dual CPU Orientation
  • Puget Systems: Dual Processor vs. Dual Core

Writer Bio

Cameron Sherber has been writing professionally since 2010, and his comic strips appear regularly in "The High Plains Reader" and "The Huffington Post." He graduated from Carthage College with a B.A. in East Asian studies and Japanese language in 2006.

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