Install a CPU and a Heat Sink Fan Assembly
The central processing unit (CPU) and the heat sink/fan assembly may be installed on the motherboard before the motherboard is placed in the computer case.
Figure 3-2 shows a close-up view of the CPU and the motherboard. The CPU and motherboard are sensitive to electrostatic discharge. When handling a CPU and motherboard, make sure that you place them on a grounded antistatic mat. You should wear an antistatic wrist strap while working with these components.
Figure 3-2 CPU and Motherboard
Figure 3-2 CPU and Motherboard
Caution
When handling a CPU, do not touch the CPU contacts at any time.
Caution
When handling a CPU, do not touch the CPU contacts at any time.
The CPU is secured to the socket on the motherboard with a locking assembly. CPU sockets today are zero insertion force (ZIF) sockets. You should be familiar with the locking assembly before attempting to install a CPU into the socket on the motherboard.
Thermal compound helps keep the CPU cool. Figure 3-3 shows thermal compound being applied to the CPU.
When you are installing a used CPU, clean the CPU and the base of the heat sink with iso-propyl alcohol. Doing this removes all traces of old thermal compound. The surfaces are now ready for a new layer of thermal compound. Follow all manufacturer recommendations about applying the thermal compound.
Figure 3-4 shows the heat sink/fan assembly. It is a two-part cooling device. The heat sink draws heat away from the CPU, and the fan moves the heat away from the heat sink. The heat sink/fan assembly usually has a three-pin power connector.
Figure 3-4 Heat Sink/Fan Assembly on the Motherboard
Figure 3-4 Heat Sink/Fan Assembly on the Motherboard
How To
Follow these instructions for CPU and heat sink/fan assembly installation:
Step 1. Align the CPU so that the Connection 1 indicator is lined up with Pin 1 on the CPU socket. Doing this ensures that the orientation notches on the CPU are aligned with the orientation keys on the CPU socket.
Step 2. Place the CPU gently into the socket.
Step 3. Close the CPU load plate and secure it in place by closing the load lever and moving it under the load lever retention tab.
Step 4. Carefully apply a small amount of thermal compound to the CPU, and spread it evenly. Follow the application instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Step 5. Align the heat sink/fan assembly retainers with the holes on the motherboard.
Step 6. Place the heat sink/fan assembly onto the CPU socket, being careful not to pinch the CPU fan wires.
Step 7. Tighten the heat sink/fan assembly retainers to secure the assembly in place.
Step 8. Connect the heat sink/fan assembly power cable to the header on the motherboard.
Continue reading here: Install the Motherboard
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