Step 4-How to Install CPU on the Motherboard

This article will cover the install CPU on the motherboard tutorial.

We have come to a critical moment in building your computer. Remember the ESD precautions.

Make sure you are wearing a ESD wrist strap or grounded (touch computer chassis) while handling the CPU.

First, lift the lever on the side of the ZIF(zero insertion force) socket.

Hold the chip by it's edges as you gently lower it into the socket. The CPU should drop into place.

DO NOT use force on the processor. You may bend pins and permanently damage it.

If it doesn't drop into place review the install cpu on the motherboard instructions. Make sure the keyed corners are aligned and the locking arm is up.

After it drops into place lower the locking arm.

Note: If your heatsink has thermal tape on it skip this step. New heatsinks usually have thermal tape. It's only good for one use. In other words, if the heatsink/fan is used you will need to use thermal paste. Clean the mating surfaces of the CPU and heatsink thoroughly with cotton swabs wetted with isopropyl alchohol before applying the thermal paste.

Next, affix the heatsink to the CPU. The trick is to lineup the clips with the retaining arms at the four corners of the ZIF socket.

Push each clip one by one into it's respective retaining arm. You should here a solid click as each one seats.

Now rotate the levers at each side of the fan to lock the heatsink/fan assembly tightly against the CPU.

Lastly, plug the heatsink fan power(three pin connector) into the proper connector on the motherboard (it's labeled cpu fan or use the closest one to the CPU).

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