Fast processors are the pride of their owners. They are also needed by those who perform resource-intensive tasks. And although in connection with the advent of fast graphics cards and SSDs, replacing a CPU has become less necessary, knowing how to properly install the processor can come in handy, since this is the most important part of the PC, and it is quite likely that you will have to replace it.
Preliminary preparation
Before you install the processor, you must collect the necessary tools, parts and supplies.
First of all, you will need a Phillips screwdriver and a clean, dry place to work, preferably without a carpet. If the house is exposed to static electricity, then you need to use an antistatic bracelet. You will need a cup or bowl to fold fasteners there. The cooler can be borrowed from the replaced processor or purchased a new one. And if the kit of the new CPU does not include thermal grease, you will need to buy it too. It helps to remove heat from the chip to the radiator, and its presence is absolutely necessary.
PC preparation
If you want to replace the processor with an identical or at least compatible with the current socket and other equipment, then installing it is not a big problem. Otherwise, you need a different motherboard.
If the socket is suitable, then you need to disconnect all the power and data cables and put them on the desktop.
Then, unscrew the screws holding the left access panel. They are located on the back of the case with an edge. After that, you can slide the panel and set it aside. If the case is small or has a non-standard design, then refer to the user manual for exact instructions.
The computer must be put on its side so that the motherboard is oriented upwards. You must be able to see all its ports and connections.
Dismantling the cooling system
A cooler is a device consisting of a large metal radiator and one or more fans attached to it. Before installing the processor, the cooling system must be removed to gain access to the old CPU. Removing the Intel cooling system is relatively simple: just unscrew the screws at all four corners and then remove the radiator. This process can be complex and time consuming if you use a third-party cooler installed using additional devices.
If disassembly is difficult, please read the manual for the specific model. Sophisticated water-cooled systems may require advanced technology. In any case, there are enough videos on the Internet of people who remove and install a cooler, which has become a stumbling block. You should spend a little of your time searching.
Before removing the cooler, check the power cable connected to the fan. It is likely connected to a 4-pin connector located near the socket. It is necessary to carefully pull it out, and only then remove the cooler.
CPU dismantling
How to install a processor if its place is taken? To do this, remove the old one.
The jelly-like substance on its surface is thermal grease, which allows heat to be effectively removed by a radiator. Do not worry if it looks a little untidy.
You need to remove the plate that holds the processor. This procedure depends on the type of socket, but there is usually a lever to hold it and a screw for extra protection. For example, Intel LGA-1151 needs to release the lever and raise the plate.
Now the processor does not hold anything. Gently squeeze it with your fingers, pull it out and set it aside. If it is inoperative and has nowhere else to use it, then you should not bother with it. But if there are plans for the processor, then you need to remove thermal grease with a cotton swab and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol and put it in an antistatic bag. The same should be done for the bottom of the remote radiator, if needed later.
Preparing for CPU installation
Before installing the processor on the board, you need to inspect its connector. If there is thermal grease on the socket near the electrical contacts, gently clean it with a dry cloth or cotton swab. When installing a new chip, it is better to avoid getting paste between the contacts.
When moving to a higher cooler, you need to stop at this moment. Before installing the processor, you may have to mount the plate to mount it on the opposite side of the motherboard. If you are not sure about further actions, you should refer to the installation guide for a specific CPU model and cooler.
Large heatsinks sold in the secondary market require a backplate on the back of the motherboard.
How to install a processor?
It's time to remove the new chip from the package and insert it into the socket. Most modern CPU designs allow mounting in only one orientation. Therefore, before installing the processor on the motherboard, you should check the correspondence of the contacts in its lower part with the contacts of the socket to make sure that the installation is correct. The chip should come in easily, without any pressure.
After that, the processor needs to lower the plate and fix it in the way that is used for this type of socket. Do not use too much force, as the CPU installation may not be performed correctly. In this case, you must remove the processor and try again.
Cooler mounting
If thermal grease has already been applied to the radiator plate that comes with the CPU, you can begin to install it. Otherwise, you need to squeeze a drop the size of a pea into the center of the chip. It is not necessary to put a lot. Thermal grease is evenly distributed over the surface when the radiator is fixed.
Now it’s the turn of installing the processor cooling system. How to install a cooler? It all depends on its design. If you are switching to a new, larger radiator, then you will need the mounting plate mentioned earlier for it. If a standard model is installed, simply screw it on. Then connect the cooling fan to one of the 4-pin connectors on the motherboard.
After reinstalling the processor and cooler, you can close the PC case. It is necessary to replace the access panel and secure it. After returning the computer to its normal position and connecting all the cables, you can turn it on to check the operation.