[zExodus]

So I'm going to switch my processor from my current i3-370M to an i7-620M. I already know that everything else works out (Man. Tech, Overall Size, BIOS compatibility, sockets, etc.). My current laptop is a HP dv6-3143us. Some specs:

Intel Core i3-370M
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 + Intel HD

So I was looking through everything that could possibly go wrong in switching it and I decided to download CPU-Z to check my socket specs, etc. I open CPU-Z and at first glance, everything looks compatible. Then I look over to the right and I see that my Max TDP rating is 25W. However, when I searched up my processor on Intel's site, it said that the Max TDP should be 35W. The real problem lies in the fact that the i7-620M has a max TDP of 35W as well.

It might just be some misconception I have about TDP in general but now I'm doubting whether or not I can switch my processor due to that problem. Any light shed here will be welcomed as I have not received any replies on any other forums

 

[Klue22]

TDP is thermal design power. Basically its how much heat the CPU is designed to put out when running under full load at stock settings. Of course overclocking will change this but motherboard sockets have no effect on it. Its very easy to find CPUs with different TDPs that fit in the same socket simply because intel knows some people will want a cooler more low-powered chip.

 

[guyladouche]

Keep in mind your laptop's cooling system is designed for the stock CPU. You might find that it's no longer sufficient in keeping all of the components cool enough after adding a different CPU (one with more cores + hyperthreading and higher TDP).

 

[zExodus]

Thanks, does this mean I have to replace my heatsink or fan? When I searched it up, some sites said that stock cooling should be enough given I don't work it too hard. So the new processor will work then right?

As a bonus question, will undervolting it make it run at cooler temps and allow me to not have to get better cooling? If I have to get cooling anyway, where do I get it?

Sorry for the multitude of questions, this is the first site that has given me reasonable answers that actually help me.

Cheers!

 

[Klue22]

Yep, undervolting/underclocking = less heat.