Laptop Maintenance Cheatsheet
Laptop Maintenance Cheatsheet
Tools, safety steps, and quick reference for common laptop upgrades.
Tools
| PH0 / PH00 screwdriver | Most laptop screws; PH00 for very small screws |
| Torx T5 / T6 | Dell, Lenovo ultrabooks and some HP models |
| Plastic pry tool / spudger | Opening bottom covers without scratching |
| Plastic opening picks | Releasing snap-fit covers around the perimeter |
| Magnetic screw mat | Prevent losing tiny screws during disassembly |
| Isopropyl alcohol 90%+ | Cleaning thermal paste and connector contacts |
Safety Checklist
| Shut down (not sleep) | Full power off before opening ߀” sleep may still have voltage on rails |
| Unplug charger | Remove AC adapter before any internal work |
| Disconnect battery | First thing to disconnect internally ߀” usually a ZIF or latch connector |
| Ground yourself | Touch unpainted metal or wear anti-static strap |
| Take photos before work | Document cable routing and connector positions |
Common Upgrades
| RAM upgrade | SO-DIMM; check if soldered (non-upgradeable) first ߀” spec sheet or Crucial Advisor |
| M.2 SSD upgrade | Note slot size (2242/2260/2280) and key (M-key vs B+M key) |
| Thermal paste | Replace if CPU runs hot ߀” clean IHS and heatsink with IPA before applying |
| Fan cleaning | Compressed air through vents; hold fan still to avoid bearing damage |
| Battery replacement | Match part number exactly; disconnect and reconnect last |