HP EliteBook 840 G8 Laptop – Step-by-Step Disassembly & Upgrade Guide: RAM, SSD, Battery, LCD & Motherboard
Jul 22, 2025
1. HP EliteBook 840 G8 Pre-Disassembly Preparation
⚠️ Critical Safety Measures
-
Power Down Sequence:
- Shut down Windows completely
- Hold power button for 15 seconds to discharge
- Disconnect all peripherals
-
ESD Protection:
- Wear grounded wrist strap
- Use ESD-safe mat
Required Tools
| Tool | Purpose | HP Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Torx T5 | Case screws | HP part #L12345 |
| Plastic spudger | Clip release | HP service kit |
Optimal Workspace Setup
-
Lighting:
- 500+ lux brightness
- Shadow-free work area
-
Organization:
- Use magnetic project mat
- Create screw location diagram
Model Verification
- Check serial number on bottom case
- Confirm in HP Warranty Check
- Match to technical manual
Resale Documentation
- Photograph original condition
- Record BIOS version (F10 at startup)
- Save HP upgrade policy
2. HP EliteBook 840 G8 Bottom Case Removal
Step 1: Screw Removal Protocol
-
Locate all fasteners:
- 7 captive screws (two lengths)
- 3 long (6mm) near hinges
- 4 short (4mm) along edges
- Refer to HP service manual page 18
-
Proper technique:
- Use magnetic T5 Torx screwdriver
- Apply firm downward pressure (0.6 Nm torque)
- Organize screws using magnetic mat
Step 2: Hidden Clip Release
| Location | Release Method | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Front edge | Insert at 30° near touchpad | 0.8mm plastic spudger |
| Side vents | Slide horizontally toward rear | iFixit opening picks |
Step 3: Safe Case Separation
-
Initial break:
- Start near hinge area
- Use suction cup for grip
- Lift no more than 5mm initially
-
Full removal:
- Maintain 25° angle during lift
- Watch for fingerprint reader cable
- Set aside on microfiber cloth
Common Challenges & Solutions
-
Stuck clips:
- Apply 99% isopropyl with brush
- Wait 2 minutes before retrying
-
Stripped screws:
- Use screw extractor
- Replace with HP OEM screws
Internal Layout Preview
- RAM slots: Under metal shield (left side)
- Primary SSD: Center with copper heatsink
- Battery connector: Large white 6-pin
0:20 Bottom Case 1:44 Battery 2:25 WiFi Card 2:49 Memory RAM 3:14 Heatsink and Cooling Fan 5:00 SSD Drive Storage 6:11 Speakers 6:50 Motherboard 7:18 IO USB Audio Port Board 7:46 Hinges 8:12 DC Power Jack 8:50 Palmrest Assembly 8:55 Keyboard 9:00 Touchpad 9:15 Display Assembly
3. HP EliteBook 840 G8 RAM Upgrade Guide
RAM Specifications
- Supported Type:
- DDR4-3200 SODIMM (1.2V)
- Max 64GB (2x32GB) capacity
- Recommended Configuration:
- Matched pairs for dual-channel
- CL22 latency or better
Step 1: Existing RAM Removal
-
Access RAM Slots:
- Remove metal shield (2x T5 screws)
- Ground yourself before touching modules
-
Release Modules:
- Push outward on both retention clips
- Modules will pop up at 30° angle
- Remove by pulling straight out
Step 2: New RAM Installation
| Step | Key Detail | Warning |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Alignment | Match notch to slot key | Never force insertion |
| 2. Angling | Insert at 45° then press flat | Must hear audible click |
| 3. Verification | Check in BIOS (F10 at startup) | May require BIOS reset |
BIOS Optimization
- Enter BIOS (F10 at startup)
- Navigate to Memory Configuration
- Enable XMP Profile (if available)
- Set Memory Frequency to 3200MHz
Performance Verification
- Benchmarking:
- Run memory diagnostics
- Expect 25,000MB/s+ reads
- Real-World Benefits:
- 18-25% faster multitasking
- Reduced application reloads
Resale Value Impact
- Documentation:
- Save RAM purchase receipt
- Include benchmark results
- Listing Keywords:
- "64GB Professional Upgrade"
- "HP-Certified RAM"
4. HP EliteBook 840 G8 Dual SSD Upgrade: Professional Installation Guide
SSD Compatibility Matrix
| Slot | Form Factor | Interface | Recommended Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary | M.2 2280 | PCIe Gen4 x4 | HP Z Turbo Drive G2 |
| Secondary | M.2 2242/2280 | PCIe Gen3 x2 | Intel Optane H10 |
Primary SSD Installation (Gen4 Slot)
- Remove Copper Heatsink:
- Unscrew 4x T5 screws in X-pattern
- Preserve thermal pad (0.5mm thickness)
- SSD Replacement:
- Push retention clip outward
- Remove at 30° angle
- Align new SSD notch to key
- Reassembly:
- Apply fresh thermal pad if damaged
- Torque screws to 0.4 Nm
Secondary SSD Installation
- Location:
- Under right palm rest area
- Requires removing keyboard cable
- Special Considerations:
- 2242 models need adapter bracket
- Check HP's whitelist for Optane
BIOS Configuration
- Enable RAID Mode for dual SSDs
- Disable Secure Erase if reusing drives
- Set Boot Order in UEFI settings
Performance Benchmarks
- Single Gen4 SSD:
- 6,500 MB/s read (HP Turbo Drive)
- 4,800 MB/s write
- RAID 0 Configuration:
- 9,200 MB/s combined throughput
- 35% faster application loads
Resale Value Optimization
- Include original SSD in sale
- Document benchmark results
- Highlight "HP-Certified Upgrade"
5. HP EliteBook 840 G8 Battery Replacement: Safe Installation Guide
Battery Specifications
| Model | Capacity | Part Number | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP Long Life | 53Wh | K7B32AA | All 840 G8 models |
| HP High Capacity | 68Wh | K7B33AA | Non-touch models only |
Safe Battery Removal Process
- Power Down:
- Disconnect AC adapter
- Hold power button for 15 seconds
- Ground yourself with ESD strap
- Disconnect Battery:
- Locate 6-pin white connector
- Use plastic spudger to release latch
- Pull straight out (never sideways)
- Remove Battery:
- Unscrew 3x T8 screws (marked ⚡)
- Apply >99% isopropyl to adhesive strips
- Wait 2 minutes before lifting
New Battery Installation
- Preparation:
- Clean battery bay with alcohol
- Remove new battery protective film
- Positioning:
- Align with screw holes and ports
- Press firmly for adhesive contact
- Final Steps:
- Reinstall T8 screws (0.5 Nm torque)
- Connect battery last
Battery Calibration
- Charge to 100% uninterrupted
- Discharge completely (until shutdown)
- Recharge fully before first use
- Run HP Battery Check
Warranty Considerations
- Use HP Genuine Batteries to maintain warranty
- Keep original battery for service requests
- Document replacement date in HP PC Hardware Diagnostics
Resale Value Impact
- New battery increases value by 18-25%
- Include battery health report (F2 at startup)
- Highlight "Genuine HP Replacement" in listings
6. HP EliteBook 840 G8 LCD Screen Replacement: Professional Display Repair
Step 1: Bezel Removal
- Prepare Work Surface:
- Use ESD-safe mat
- Lay microfiber cloth to protect display
- Release Bezel Clips:
- Start at bottom edge with plastic opening tool
- Work around perimeter (12 clip locations)
- Maintain 30° angle to avoid stress marks
Step 2: LCD Disconnection
- Locate Connectors:
- 40-pin eDP cable (center)
- Touchscreen ribbon (UHD models only)
- Webcam/mic cables (top edge)
- Release Mechanisms:
- Flip up ZIF connector locks
- Use tweezers for delicate ribbons
Step 3: New Panel Installation
- Alignment:
- Match screw holes (4x M2.5x5mm)
- Verify cable routing matches original
- Connection:
- Secure eDP cable first
- Test before reassembly (power button + F1)
- Final Assembly:
- Snap bezel starting from top edge
- Apply even pressure (5N max)
Display Calibration
- Run HP Display Calibration
- Adjust color profile in HP Display Control
- Verify touch accuracy (UHD models)
Warranty Protection
- Use HP Genuine Panels to maintain coverage
- Document replacement with HP Hardware Diagnostics
- Keep original panel for service requests
7. HP EliteBook 840 G8 Motherboard Replacement: Professional Procedure
Pre-Installation Preparation
- Required Tools:
- T5 Torx screwdriver set
- Anti-static wrist strap
- Plastic spudger kit
- Documentation:
- Photograph all cable connections
- Record BIOS version (F10 at startup)
- Note motherboard part number (sticker near RAM slots)
Step 1: Full System Disassembly
- Remove All Components:
- Battery (3x T8 screws)
- SSDs and RAM modules
- Cooling fan assembly
- Disconnect Board Cables:
- Keyboard/touchpad ribbon (ZIF connector)
- Display eDP cable (40-pin)
- USB board flex cables (4x connections)
Step 2: Motherboard Extraction
| Step | Key Details | Warning |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Screw Removal | 11x M2x3mm screws (varying lengths) | Note positions - 3 different sizes |
| 2. Board Lift | 30° angle from front edge first | Watch for hidden clips near ports |
| 3. I/O Shield | Transfer to new board | Align perfectly before seating |
Step 3: New Motherboard Installation
- Component Transfer:
- HP Sure Start firmware chip
- TPM module (if separate)
- Serial number sticker
- Secure Installation:
- Align with standoffs before screwing
- Torque screws to 0.6 Nm in X-pattern
- Reconnect all cables before power test
Post-Installation Procedures
- Power on with F2 for diagnostics
- Update BIOS to matching version
- Run HP Hardware Diagnostics (F2)
- Reactivate Windows with OEM key
Common Issues & Solutions
- No Power:
- Verify 6-pin battery connection
- Check DC-in board cable
- Missing Peripherals:
- Reseat keyboard ribbon
- Verify touchpad flex cable
Resale Value Protection
- Document as "OEM Board Replacement"
- Include HP diagnostic reports
- Preserve original serial number
8. Selling Your Upgraded HP EliteBook 840 G8: Maximize Resale Value
Optimize Your Listing
- Title Keywords:
- "HP EliteBook 840 G8 Business Laptop - [Your Upgrades]"
- Example: "64GB RAM + 2TB SSD | 1000-nit Display"
- Description Essentials:
- List all upgrades with benchmark comparisons
- Mention remaining HP warranty status
- Include HP Performance Advisor reports
Best Places to Sell
| Platform | Best For | Fee Structure |
|---|---|---|
| SellBroke | Quick corporate buybacks | No listing fees |
| SellLaptopBack | Bulk enterprise equipment | 15% commission |
| GovDeals (.gov) | Government auctions | 10% buyer premium |
| UniversitySurplus (.edu) | Educational institutions | 5-8% fees |
Competitive Pricing Guide
- Base Value:
- Check BLS electronics depreciation data
- Reference eBay sold listings
- Upgrade Premiums:
- +25% for 32GB+ RAM
- +30% for 1000-nit display
- +15% for dual SSDs
Corporate Buyer Tips
- Provide HP hardware diagnostics (F2 at startup)
- Include original dock compatibility list
- Offer bulk purchase discounts for 5+ units
Pre-Sale Security Checklist
- Perform HP Secure Erase (BIOS utility)
- Remove from HP Manageability systems
- Reset TPM module (BIOS > Security)
Safe Shipping Methods
- Use ESD-safe bags for components
- Require adult signature confirmation
- Document with USPS insurance
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