To replace the thermal paste on your HP ProBook 6550b, you must first remove the battery and keyboard to access the cooling assembly.
This video shows: How to open, clean, replace thermal paste and upgrade cpu or ram memory on HP ProBook 6550b ...
To replace the thermal paste on your HP ProBook 6550b, you must first remove the battery and keyboard to access the cooling assembly.
Part 1: Disassembly (Opening the Laptop)
Safety First: Shut down the laptop from the Start menu. Unplug the charger and all peripherals.
Remove the Battery: Flip the laptop over and slide the battery release latch to the left to eject the battery.
Static Discharge: Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to drain any remaining electrical charge.
Remove Keyboard Screws: On the bottom of the laptop, loosen the three Phillips screws marked with a keyboard icon.
Lift the Keyboard: Flip the laptop upright and open it. Slide the four keyboard tabs (located above the top row of keys) toward you. Gently lift the keyboard from the top edge and flip it over to expose the ribbon cable.
Disconnect Cables: Use a spudger or thin plastic tool to lift the locking tab of the keyboard ribbon cable and remove it.
Access the Cooling System: Remove the switch cover (the plastic strip above the keyboard) by loosening the screws on the bottom marked for it and prying it up gently.
Part 2: Cleaning the CPU and Heatsink
Remove the Fan: Loosen the two Torx T8 or Phillips screws securing the fan, disconnect its cable, and lift it out.
Remove the Heatsink: Loosen the four Phillips screws securing the heatsink to the motherboard. If it feels stuck due to old paste, gently "jimmy" or twist it side-to-side until it releases.
Wipe Old Paste: Moisten a lint-free cloth or cotton swab with 90% (or higher) isopropyl alcohol. Gently wipe away all old, grey residue from the top of the CPU and the bottom of the copper heatsink until both surfaces are shiny and clean.
Dust Vents: While the fan is out, use compressed air to blow out any dust trapped in the heatsink fins.
Part 3: Replacing Thermal Paste
Apply Paste: Squeeze a small, pea-sized drop (about 4–5mm) of high-quality thermal paste onto the center of the CPU core. Avoid using too much, as it can overflow and cause a mess.
Reinstall Heatsink: Carefully lower the heatsink onto the CPU. Tighten the screws in the numerical order printed on the heatsink (or in a cross pattern) to ensure even pressure.
Reassemble: Reconnect the fan cable, reinstall the switch cover, and reconnect the keyboard ribbon cable before snapping the keyboard back into place.