Disassembling a DEXP laptop: a step-by-step guide for beginners and more

Disassemble the laptop DEXP doing it yourself is a task that scares many users. The fear of damaging fragile components or losing the warranty often stops even experienced equipment owners. However, with the right approach and tools, the disassembly process becomes simple and safe. In this article, we will look in detail at how to remove the back cover, get to the cooling system, replace thermal paste, or clean the laptop from dust - without risk to the device.

Brand DEXP offers a wide range of models: from budget DEXP Aquilon to gaming DEXP Atlas. Despite the external differences, most laptops of this brand have a similar design. We'll focus on universal steps, but also point out features of popular series. If you have never disassembled equipment, don’t worry: the instructions are suitable even for beginners.

Preparing for Disassembly: Tools and Precautions

Before you begin disassembling, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can turn a simple procedure into agony. Here is the minimum set you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (usually PH0 or PH1 - depends on the model). In 90% of cases, a standard electronics screwdriver will do.
• 📏 Plastic pick or spatula for carefully prying off the lid. You can use a guitar pick or a special phone repair kit.
• 🧲 Magnetic mat or container for screws. Laptops DEXP often have screws of different lengths - they are easy to confuse.
• 🧴 Thermal paste (if you are planning a replacement). Suitable for budget models KPT-8 or Arctic MX-4.
• 🪛 Antistatic wrist strap (optional, but recommended). Static electricity can damage the motherboard.

Important: DEXP laptops of the Orion series (for example, DEXP Orion 15) often have hidden screws under the rubber feet - don't forget to remove them! Also check if there are any screws left under the battery if it is removable.

⚠️ Attention: If your laptop is under warranty, disassembling it will void it. Check the conditions at the service center DEXP before starting work. Some models (eg DEXP Atlas G15) have seals on the screws - damage to them will deprive you of warranty service.

Step 1: Turn off the power and remove the battery

The first and most important stage is to completely de-energize the device. Even if the laptop is turned off, the capacitors on the motherboard can retain their charge. Here's how to do it right:

1. Turn off the laptop through the menu Start → Shutdown.
2. Unplug the power supply from the outlet and the laptop.
3. If the battery is removable (as in DEXP Aquilon N550), slide the latches and remove it. In fixed models (for example, DEXP Atlas G17) the battery will have to be disconnected after removing the cover.
4. Press and hold the power button 10-15 seconds - this will discharge the residual charge.

In some models (for example, DEXP Orion 17) the battery is glued to the body. In this case, you will need to carefully pry it off with a plastic spatula, after heating it with a hairdryer (temperature no higher than 60°C).

⚠️ Attention: If you are disassembling a laptop with M.2 SSD (For example, DEXP Aquilon N350), do not touch the drive contacts with bare hands. Static electricity can damage data. Use an antistatic wrist strap or at least touch a grounded metal object before working.

Step 2: Removing the back cover - fastening features

Back cover of laptops DEXP secured with screws and latches. The number of screws varies from model to model: from 8 in DEXP Aquilon N340 up to 15 V DEXP Atlas G15. The main rule is don't try too hard. If the cover does not budge, you have missed a screw or latch.

Algorithm of actions:

1. Turn the laptop over and remove all the rubber feet (they often hide screws).
2. Unscrew all visible screws. In models DEXP Orion Some screws may be longer than others - take note of their placement.
3. Begin to carefully pry the lid with a plastic pick from any angle. Usually the corner near USB ports.
4. Move the pick along the seam, snapping off the fasteners one by one. Do not try to force the cover off as this will break the plastic clips.

In some models (for example, DEXP Atlas G17) the cover can be divided into two parts: the main one and the small one (above the keyboard). In this case, the large part is removed first, and then the small one.

Laptop model	Number of screws	Mounting features
DEXP Aquilon N340	8-10	The screws are the same length, the cover can be removed easily
DEXP Orion 15	12-14	Hidden screws under the legs, rigid latches
DEXP Atlas G15	15+	Two-piece cover, screws of different lengths
DEXP Aquilon N550	10-12	Removable battery, screws under seals

Step 3: Access to the cooling system and replacement of thermal paste

After removing the cover, you will see the cooling system - a radiator with a fan and heat pipes. In laptops DEXP Most often, one heat pipe is used connecting the processor and the chipset (in gaming models there may be two). Before you start cleaning or replacing thermal paste, take a photo of the cable layout - this will help put everything back together.

Procedure:

1. Disconnect the fan cable (usually it is attached to the connector FAN_CON on the motherboard).
2. Remove the screws securing the radiator. Keep a close eye on the spring washers - they often get lost.
3. Carefully remove the radiator. If the thermal paste has dried out, it may “stick” - do not pull, but slightly twist the radiator from side to side.
4. Clean any remaining old thermal paste from the CPU and heatsink using isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a lint-free wipe.
5. Apply a thin layer (about the size of a pea) of new thermal paste to the processor and chipset (if equipped).

In models DEXP Atlas a common problem with drying out of thermal paste after just a year of use. If you notice that the laptop has started to overheat (the temperature under load is higher 90°C), replacing thermal paste will solve the problem for 1-2 years.

Step 4: Cleaning from dust - how not to damage the fan

Dust is the main enemy of laptops DEXP, especially budget series Aquilon And Orion. It accumulates on the fan blades and radiator, impairing cooling. For cleaning you will need:

• 🌬️ Compressed air cylinder (or a vacuum cleaner with a blowing function).
• 🧹 Soft brush (for example, for drawing).
• 🔍 Flashlight for lighting hard-to-reach places.

How to clean correctly:

1. Hold the fan blades with your finger or a screwdriver to prevent them from rotating when air is supplied (otherwise the bearing may be damaged).
2. Blow in short bursts, directing the stream in parallel blades, and not perpendicular.
3. To remove dust from the radiator, use a brush - it better cleans small honeycombs.
4. Check if they are clogged air intake openings on the bottom of the laptop (they are often covered with a fine mesh).

In models DEXP Atlas G15/G17 the fan has double bearing, which makes it more resistant to mechanical stress. However, this does not mean that it can be cleaned without care - dust will still shorten its service life.

What happens if you don't clean your laptop from dust?

Accumulating dust acts as a thermal insulator, impairing cooling. This leads to throttling (automatic performance degradation) and reduces component life. In extreme cases, the video card or processor may overheat and fail.

Step 5: Disassemble the keyboard and touchpad (if necessary)

If you need to get to screen cable, speakers or replacing the keyboard, you will need to remove the top panel. In laptops DEXP it is secured with latches and 1-2 screws under the battery. The main difficulty is not to damage the cables that go from the keyboard and touchpad to the motherboard.

Step by step instructions:

1. Remove the battery (if it is removable).
2. Remove the screws that secure the keyboard (usually they are located under the top cover, near the touchpad).
3. Using a plastic spatula, carefully pry up the keyboard, starting at the top edge. It is attached with latches, but can be additionally glued.
4. Disconnect the keyboard cable (the connector is usually marked as KB_CON).
5. To remove the touchpad, unscrew the screws under the keyboard and disconnect its cable (TP_CON).

In models DEXP Orion 17 The keyboard often comes complete with a top panel—it cannot be removed separately. In this case, you will have to dismantle the entire panel, which requires greater care.

⚠️ Attention: Keyboard and touchpad cables in laptops DEXP very fragile. Do not pull on them - just carefully lift the connector latch and remove the cable in parallel board

Step 6: Assembling a laptop - how to avoid mistakes

Assembly is no less important stage than disassembly. Main rule: work in reverse order. Start by connecting all the cables, then install the radiator, tighten the screws and only at the very end put on the cover. Here are some tips to help avoid problems:

• 🔩 Check if everything is the screws are tightened. One missed screw can cause the cover to become skewed and the latches to break.
• 🔌 Make sure everything is cables are connected tightly. For example, a loosely inserted touchpad cable will lead to its inoperability.
• 🧪 After assembly, turn on the laptop and check temperature (for example, through the program HWMonitor). If she is higher 80°C when idle, it means the radiator is installed incorrectly.
• 🔊 Check the work speakers, keyboard and touchpad. Sometimes cables can fall out when transporting a laptop.

In models DEXP Atlas after replacing thermal paste it may be necessary battery calibration. To do this, fully charge the battery, then discharge until it turns off and charge 100% again. This will help reset the power controller errors.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when disassembling laptops DEXP. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Using a metal screwdriver to pry off the cover	Scratches on the case, broken latches	Use only a plastic pick
Tightening the radiator screws with excessive force	Cracks on the motherboard, deformation of the processor	Tighten the screws criss-cross, without effort
Applying too much thermal paste	Overheating due to a “cushion” of paste, leakage onto components	Apply a layer thick 0.5 mm
Connecting cables "by eye"	Keyboard, touchpad or screen not working	Take photos of the location of the cables before disconnecting

Pay special attention to models DEXP Aquilon N340/N350 - they often have problems with falling off power connector contacts. If after assembly the laptop does not charge, check whether the connector is tightly seated on the motherboard.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to disassemble a DEXP laptop without special tools?

Theoretically yes, but the risk of damaging the case or components increases significantly. For example, without a plastic pick, you can break the lid latches, and without a magnetic screwdriver, you can lose screws inside the laptop. Minimum set: Phillips screwdriver and plastic card (instead of a mediator).

How often should you clean your DEXP laptop from dust?

Depends on operating conditions:

• In a clean room - once every 1.5-2 years.
• If the laptop is placed on a carpet or in a dusty place - once every 6-12 months.
• For gaming models (DEXP Atlas) - every 6 monthsbecause they get hotter.

What should I do if after replacing the thermal paste the temperature does not drop?

Possible reasons:

1. Poor fit of the radiator - check that it is installed evenly.
2. Dried thermal paste on the chipset - this also needs to be replaced.
3. Radiator clogged with dust - additional cleaning is required.
4. Fan malfunction - check if it rotates under load.

If the temperature is still high (eg 95°C+ in DEXP Orion 15), perhaps the problem is degraded thermal paste on the video card (if it is discrete).

Can I use thermal paste from my phone for my DEXP laptop?

It is possible, but not advisable. Thermal pastes for smartphones (for example, Coollaboratory Liquid Pro) have high thermal conductivity, but often electrically conductive. If it gets on the motherboard components, it may cause a short circuit. For laptops, it is better to choose dielectric pastes: Arctic MX-4, Noctua NT-H1 or KPT-8.

How do you know if your DEXP laptop needs cleaning?

Signs that it's time to clean the cooling system:

• Loud fan operation even when idle.
• Overheating (shutdowns due to high temperature).
• Hot case in area F1-F12 (the radiator is usually located there).
• Slowdown under load (throttling).

In models DEXP Aquilon a sign of a system clogged with dust may be automatic fan switching on at maximum speed when loading Windows.