How to open Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 (15, Gen 8) – disassembly and upgrade options
Step 1: Accessing the Internal Components
- Ensure the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 (15, Gen 8) is powered off and placed on a soft, clean surface to prevent scratches or damage.
- Remove the 10 Phillips-head screws from the bottom of the laptop.
- Use a plastic tool to gently pry the bottom panel off, starting from the back.
Hint: Be careful when prying to avoid damaging the internal clips or the laptop casing.
Step 2: Removing the Battery
- Disconnect the battery by unplugging its connector from the motherboard.
- Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws securing the battery to the laptop’s chassis, then lift the 47Wh battery away from the device.
Caution: Handle the battery and its connector with care to avoid any damage.
More info: The 47Wh battery provides up to 11 hours and 7 minutes of web browsing, or 8 hours and 20 minutes of video playback, offering good battery life for daily activities.
Memory
- The device comes with 8GB, 12GB, or 16GB of soldered DDR4-3200MHz memory. The configuration determines whether the memory operates in single-channel or dual-channel mode.
More info: While memory is not upgradable due to its soldered nature, the available configurations should meet the needs of most users for multitasking and productivity tasks.
Storage Upgrade
- Identify the single M.2 slot on the motherboard that supports 2242 Gen 4 SSDs. Note that due to AMD platform limitations, the slot operates at Gen 3 speeds.
- Consider upgrading or adding an NVMe SSD to enhance the laptop’s storage capacity or improve overall system responsiveness and load times.
More info: A thermal pad beneath the preinstalled NVMe helps manage heat, ensuring sustained performance.
You can buy Gen 3 M.2 SSD modules here: Buy from Amazon.com (#CommissionsEarned)
Step 3: Examining the Cooling System
- Review the cooling system, which includes one fan, one heat pipe, a single heat sink, and a heat spreader, designed to efficiently manage the thermal output of the laptop.