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Question about replacing motherboard Dell Vostro 1520 laptop

#1 x.rae

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 01:39 AM

A Dell technician is coming tomorrow to replace the motherboard on my Vostro 1520 laptop. Dell diagnosed my issue via online chat.

Over the past few days it's begun to quit without warning with no apparent pattern and no apparent cause. I am trying to back up files when the computer wants to work.

My question is: Will all the software need to be reinstalled after the motherboard is replaced? This is my first experience with this type of repair. Thanks!

#2 killerx525

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 05:20 AM

Most likely yes.

>Michael
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#3 x.rae

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 06:23 AM

I was afraid you'd say that! :blink:

#4 dpunisher

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 07:45 AM

If only the motherboard is replaced, then you should be OK. Your software is on the hard drive. Now, if you had to send the unit out for service instead of in home repair, then it would be a crapshoot as parts are sometimes mixed and matched.

I am a retired Ford tech. Next to Fords, any computer is a piece of cake. (The cake, its not a lie)

#5 ThunderZ

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 10:12 AM

Ask the Tech. who comes if the motherboard is a direct replacement. If it is then you should not have to do a thing.

I used to do in home warranty repair work. Chances are good they are sending an exact match of the failed motherboard.

No new software installation should be necessary.

#6 x.rae

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Posted 10 March 2011 - 12:34 PM

Thanks! I'll let you know the outcome.

#7 x.rae

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Posted 15 March 2011 - 08:22 PM

I am happy & relieved to report that my motherboard was replaced with a very close approximation of the original motherboard, and everything seems to be working properly without having to fiddle with software. The only difference I can see is a different BIOS upon startup.

Thanks for the info!