Some CPUs have delicate pins that you need to avoid bending.
The central processing unit (CPU) is a small chip that is installed in a socket on your motherboard. The socket type on the motherboard determines the type of CPUs that are compatible with your system. Although installing the CPU is not a difficult process, whether you're replacing a faulty CPU or installing a CPU on a new computer, it may seem daunting if you've never been inside your computer case before.
Instructions
1. Shut off your computer and take the power cord out of the back. Remove your computer's case cover. You may need to unscrew the back or side fastening screws to gain access to the inside of your computer.
2. Take off your current CPU's cooling assembly. Disconnect the cooling fan from the motherboard's power pins and move that power cable out of the way. Unfasten the heatsink from the CPU socket or retaining clips. The specific heatsink removal method varies depending on your motherboard's socket types. Common removal methods include pressing the clips on each side of the heatsink until it releases and unscrewing caps at the corners of the heatsink.
3. Twist the heatsink and fan as you pull the heatsink off of your CPU. This breaks any thermal compound bond that may be remaining. Set the heatsink aside for now.
4. Push up the small metal retaining lever on the outside of the CPU socket to release the CPU from the socket. You may need to push open a protective cover over the CPU. Pull gently to remove the CPU from the socket. Press the new CPU in place with as little force as possible. Avoid bending any pins on the CPU or socket.
5. Close the protective cover, if there is one, and then return the locking lever to its original position. Put a pea sized dab of thermal compound on top of the CPU and put the heatsink firmly on top. Press the heatsink down onto the CPU socket until it latches onto the clips or holes on the motherboard. Plug the fan back into its original power pins on the motherboard. Put the case cover on and plug the computer in.
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