With the ever increasing power of central processing units, it is good to know upgrade a CPU. The upgrade can improve the computer's efficiency, perhaps avoiding the need for a new one. Though a CPU is perhaps the most crucial component of a computer, replacing it is not difficult.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the computer from all electrical sources.
2. Remove the computer's side access panel. This may require removing two thumbscrews from the rear of the PC case.
3. Locate the the computer's CPU and heat sink. This is generally at the top of the motherboard near the rear I/O shield. This will also be labeled on the motherboard for easy identification.
4. Unlatch the holding clip, if necessary, that is holding the heat sink in place. This holding clip will simply bend down and into a latch. To remove it, press down on it and remove it from the tiny groove it is secured in.
5. Lift the heat sink straight away from the motherboard. There may be some suction from the thermal paste that was applied between the heat sink and processo.
6. Pull the CPU straight away from the motherboard and motherboard CPU socket.
7. Place your new CPU into the motherboard socket. Take care to match the pins of the new CPU with the socket pattern of the motherboard's CPU socket. The CPU is keyed and will only fit in one orientation.
8. Clean the remaining thermal paste off of the bottom of your heat sink. Use rubbing alcohol to aid in this step.
9. Apply a pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the cleaned face of the heat sink.
10. Install the heat sink against the CPU in the same orientation it was before removal.
11. Fasten the holding pin.
12. Replace the computer's side panel.
Tags: heat sink, motherboard socket, thermal paste, away from, away from motherboard, computer side