Upgrading a Dell Precision 5810 workstation is an affordable approach to increase its lifespan and performance. This article will walk you through the CPU, memory, storage, and graphics card upgrading processes. These tweaks will enable you to maximize your Dell Precision 5810 regardless of your interests in video editing, gaming, or just a dependable system. They won’t break the budget either.
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Watch My YouTube Video on Upgrading a Dell Precision 5810 Workstation
In the YouTube video above, I update a Dell Precision 5810 workstation. I can’t wait to show you the metamorphosis; this beast is set to have a significant performance increase. This workstation is meant to wow without breaking the budget, whether you’re running a home business, creating amazing graphics, editing high-definition films, or simply being a computer enthusiast.
Upgrades for this Dell Precision 5810 Workstation
Workstation Upgrade Specs:
- 32GB DDR4 RAM Memory (8x4GB) – Smooth multitasking and fast performance.
- Intel Xeon E5-1650 V3 6-core CPU – Power through intensive tasks with ease.
- 256 GB SSD + 1TB HDD – Quick boot times and plenty of storage.
- NVIDIA Quadro 2000 GPU – A good choice for professional graphic work.
- DVD-RW Drive – Versatile media options, including CDs and DVDs.
- Windows 10 Pro – A reliable and professional operating system.
Special Notice for Gamers
Now, gamers, pay attention! Simple graphics card upgrades to a GTX 1060 6GB or GTX 1070 can help you play highly sought-after games with outstanding frame rates. Other graphics cards will also help, but more powerful GPUs would likely be CPU-bound, thus wasting your money (unless you also edit, render, or stream video).
CPU Upgrade
The Dell Precision 5810 comes with a Xeon 1650 V3 processor, which is quite decent. However, to ensure it performs optimally, especially under heavy workloads, you might want to replace the thermal paste on the CPU.
- Remove the CPU cooler by unscrewing the four screws carefully. Be gentle to avoid damaging the motherboard.
- Clean off the old thermal paste from both the CPU and the cooler using a plastic tool and some alcohol.
- Apply new thermal paste. A five-dot pattern works well to ensure even coverage.
- Reattach the CPU cooler by screwing it back in a criss-cross pattern to evenly spread the thermal paste.
Memory Upgrade
Upgrading the memory in your Dell Precision 5810 is crucial for optimal performance. The system we worked on had 12 GB of RAM spread across three modules, which doesn’t fully utilize the quad-channel memory architecture.
- Make sure you have four memory modules of the same size and frequency to achieve quad-channel performance.
- We upgraded to 32 GB by adding five more 4 GB modules, filling all eight slots.
- Install the memory modules by aligning the notch in the module with the slot and pressing down until you hear a click.
- Verify quad-channel performance using CPU-Z software by checking the memory tab.
Adding an SSD for the OS and an HHD for Storage
For storage, we opted to add a 256 GB SSD for the operating system and a 1 TB Seagate drive for additional storage.
- Mount the SSD in a 3.5-inch bay adapter if needed, and secure it with screws.
- Install the SSD and hard drive into the appropriate slots in the case.
- Connect the SATA cables and power supply cables to the drives.
Graphics Card Upgrade
The final piece of the upgrade is the graphics card. We recommend using a Quadro 2000, but for better performance, consider an RTX 2060 or RTX 3060.
- Remove the existing graphics card by unscrewing it and disconnecting any power cables.
- Insert the new graphics card into the primary x16 slot, ensuring it clicks into place.
- Reconnect power cables, using an adapter if necessary.
The Final Touches of Your Dell Precision 5810 Workstation Upgrade on a Budget
After finishing these updates, your Dell Precision 5810 will be a strong and effective workstation capable of performing hard tasks. Make sure the system is dust-free and that every component is tightly installed. Turn on the power, install the operating system of your choice, and then savor the improved performance of your upgraded workstation PC!
For more detailed guides on upgrading your workstation, check out these resources:
