If you have a MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch model, you might be wondering how to upgrade it to improve its performance, storage, or battery life. In this blog post, we will show you how to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch with some simple steps and tips.
The MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch is a powerful laptop that can handle various tasks, such as video editing, gaming, or web development. However, over time, you might notice that your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch is not as fast or reliable as it used to be. This could be due to several reasons, such as outdated software, malware, or hardware degradation.
Fortunately, there are some ways to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and make it run like new again. Depending on your needs and budget, you can upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch by:
- Replacing the SSD (solid state drive) with a larger or faster one
- Replacing the battery with a new one
- Adding more RAM (random access memory) modules
- Replacing the keyboard or trackpad with a new one
- Replacing the display or logic board with a new one
However, before you decide to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you should check the compatibility of the components you want to install, and backup your data to avoid losing any important files.
Check Compatibility
Before you buy any components for your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you should check if they are compatible with your laptop model and specifications. You can find out the details of your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch by clicking on the Apple logo on the top left corner of your screen, and then selecting About This Mac. You will see information such as:
- The model name and year of your MacBook Pro
- The processor type and speed of your MacBook Pro
- The memory size and speed of your MacBook Pro
- The storage capacity and type of your MacBook Pro
- The graphics card and display resolution of your MacBook Pro
- The serial number and warranty status of your MacBook Pro
You should use this information to compare with the components you want to buy, and make sure they are compatible with your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch. For example, if you want to replace the SSD of your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you should look for an SSD that has the same interface (PCIe NVMe) and size (M.2) as the original one. You should also check the maximum capacity and speed that your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch can support.
You can also use online tools such as MacSales.com or iFixit.com to find compatible components for your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch. These websites offer detailed guides and videos on how to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, as well as reviews and ratings from other users who have done the same.
Backup Your Data
Before you start upgrading your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you should backup your data to avoid losing any important files in case something goes wrong during the process. You can backup your data using different methods, such as:
Using Time Machine: Time Machine is a built-in feature of macOS that allows you to backup your entire system and files to an external hard drive or a network device. You can set up Time Machine by going to System Preferences > Time Machine, and selecting a backup destination. You can also choose what files to include or exclude from the backup, and how often to perform the backup. To restore your data from a Time Machine backup, you can use the Recovery Mode or the Migration Assistant.
Using iCloud: iCloud is a cloud service that allows you to sync and store your files online. You can access iCloud by signing in with your Apple ID on any device that supports iCloud. You can also enable iCloud Drive on your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch by going to System Preferences > Apple ID > iCloud, and turning on iCloud Drive. You can then choose what folders and apps to sync with iCloud Drive, and how much storage space to use. To restore your data from iCloud Drive, you can simply sign in with your Apple ID on another device or on iCloud.com.
Using a third-party software: There are many third-party software that can help you backup your data on your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch. Some examples are Carbon Copy Cloner, SuperDuper!, or Acronis True Image. These software allow you to create a bootable clone of your system and files on another drive or device. You can also customize the backup settings and schedule according to your preferences. To restore your data from a third-party software backup, you can use the software itself or boot from the cloned drive.
Upgrade Your MacBook Pro 2017 15 Inch
Once you have checked the compatibility of the components you want to install, and backed up your data, you are ready to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch. However, before you begin, you should prepare some tools and materials, such as:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Torx screwdriver
- Pentalobe screwdriver
- spudger or a plastic opening tool
- pair of tweezers
- microfiber cloth
- static wrist strap or a grounding mat
- work surface with good lighting and ventilation
You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Turn off your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and unplug it from the power source
- Remove any external devices or accessories from your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch
- Discharge any static electricity from your body by touching a metal object or wearing a static wrist strap
- Avoid touching any exposed wires or components inside your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch
- Keep track of the screws and parts you remove from your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and store them in a safe place
Depending on what component you want to upgrade, you will need to follow different steps and procedures. You can find detailed guides and videos on how to upgrade your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch on websites such as MacSales.com or iFixit.com. Here are some general steps that apply to most upgrades:
- Remove the bottom case of your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch by unscrewing the ten Pentalobe screws on the back of the laptop. Use a spudger or a plastic opening tool to pry up the case and lift it off.
- Disconnect the battery connector from the logic board by using a spudger or a plastic opening tool to lift it up. This will prevent any accidental power on or short circuit during the upgrade.
- Locate the component you want to replace or add on the logic board or the chassis of your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch. Use the appropriate screwdriver, spudger, tweezers, or opening tool to remove any screws, cables, brackets, or clips that secure the component.
- Carefully remove the old component from your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and set it aside. Avoid touching any contacts or pins on the component or the logic board.
- Align the new component with the slot or socket on your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and gently insert it. Make sure it is firmly seated and locked in place. Reconnect any cables, brackets, or clips that secure the component.
- Reconnect the battery connector to the logic board by aligning it with the socket and pressing it down.
- Replace the bottom case of your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch by aligning it with the chassis and screwing back the ten Pentalobe screws.
- Turn on your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch and check if the new component is working properly. You might need to update some drivers or settings to optimize the performance of the new component.
Troubleshooting Your MacBook Pro 2017 15 Inch
- If you encounter any problems or issues after upgrading your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you can try some troubleshooting steps, such as:
- Restarting your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch
- Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) by shutting down your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, plugging it into a power source, and then pressing and holding the Shift-Control-Option keys on the left side of the keyboard and the power button for ten seconds. Release all keys and then turn on your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch.
- Resetting the NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) by turning off your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, turning it on again, and then immediately pressing and holding the Option-Command-P-R keys until you hear two startup chimes. Release all keys and let your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch boot normally.
- Running Apple Diagnostics by turning off your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, turning it on again, and then immediately pressing and holding the D key until you see a screen with language options. Choose your language and follow the instructions to run a test on your hardware. Note down any error codes or messages that appear.
- Contacting Apple Support or an authorized service provider if none of the above steps resolve your problem.
Conclusion
Upgrading your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to improve its performance, storage, or battery life. However, you should always check the compatibility of the components you want to install, backup your data before starting the process, and follow some safety precautions and instructions carefully. If you encounter any problems or issues after upgrading your MacBook Pro 2017 15 inch, you can try some troubleshooting steps or contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider for help.