Introduction
In this guide we will be showing you how to identify potential devices or components which may be overheating causing shutdowns.
PLEASE READ: This is a temporary repair, and does not permanently correct the issue with these laptops -- the GPU itself has failed and needs replacement or a new motherboard! This will get it going short-term, but the laptop will always have problems and fail at more frequent rates until it is no longer reflowable!
Tools
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Dust acts like an insulator and contains moisture which can affect computer components if left over time.
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Turn off computer and unplug AC adapter.
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Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from vents, fan and power supply fan.
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Removing dust should be considered routine maintenance and done on a regular basis.
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Although a dead battery won't cause the laptop to overheat, it will cause it to shutdown unexpectedly.
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Make sure battery connection is secure.
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Make sure the Adapter is properly plugged into the wall and laptop.
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Dell batteries come with a battery life indicator located on the bottom of the laptop. Press and release the test button. Each lights represent a 20% charge. If no lights are present, replacing the battery may be necessary.
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If the fan is not working properly the laptop will overheat and shutdown.
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Look to see if fan is spinning and dust free.
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Go into Control Panel/ System/Device Manager/System Devices/and look for the fan. Right click on properties to see if the device is working properly.
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Replace fan if necessary.
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Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)
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BIOS - out of date temperature table can cause heat issues.
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Check the Dell website and download the latest BIOS. http://www.dell.com/support/home/us/en/1...
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If you've gotten here, you most likely have an issue with your GPU due to this recall: Dell Blog Post about NVIDIA GPU Recall
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To fix this, you can try to "re-flow" the soldier on the motherboard, which should give you a little more life out of the laptop.
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Follow this guide to remove your motherboard: D820 Motherboard Removal
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Once you have remove the motherboard, clean off all of the thermal paste from the two remaining chips, one NVIDIA GPU, and another Intel.
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Also remove all stickers, foam, and plastic from the motherboard, as they will melt or catch fire in the next step
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Pre-heat your oven to 395 degrees Farenheight.
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Place the motherboard on a sheet of foil, on a baking sheet. Place into the oven for 10 minutes. Then remove and let cool
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Re-assemble laptop following motherboard steps in reverse.
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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
