In general I'm very leery of replacing the CPU that came with a computer because there are just too many unknowns in doing it unless you have something in writing from Dell that it will work.
I have a Dell Studio 1749 that I need to take apart, replace fan and HDD. Since I'm going to do this, I am considering whether to upgrade CPU ( i-3 350M to i-5 540M). I was told that i-5 is compatible with the motherboard. CPU costs $50. Since this is not a new computer I am reluctant to invest in upgrades, except I could be reasonably sure I will get a significant improvement in performance. As for now my Studio is okay but just okay, and Autocad 3D is barely okay. I am also concerned whether there could be some problems with overheating.
Thank you

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