How to Install a New CPU on a Computer
- 1). Shut down the computer fully, then unplug it. Make sure there is no power left in the computer's components by pressing the power button again after it has been unplugged.
- 2). Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws on the back of the computer case that hold the left side panel in place. Slide the panel back and remove it, pressing a release switch on the back if necessary.
- 3). Place the computer case on its right side, being careful not to drop it while doing so. Locate the heat sink and fan installed over the processor, most likely just above the center of the motherboard. Unplug the fan from the motherboard.
- 4). Check to see if a metal securing bar runs through the fan's heat sink. If you see a metal clip running through the heat sink, slide a flat-head screwdriver into the slot on the bar and pull it free from the peg that it attaches to.
- 5). Remove the screws holding the fan and heat sink in place, then carefully remove the heat sink and fan unit from your computer case. Use thermal paste remover and a clean cotton cloth to remove any gray or black thermal paste that may be stuck to the bottom of the heat sink, then set the unit aside.
- 6). Lift the locking lever that holds the CPU in place, and remove the processor cover if one is present. Carefully lift the current CPU out of its socket and set it aside.
- 7). Place the new CPU into the socket, making sure that it is aligned properly so that it enters the socket easily. Replace the processor cover if one is present, then lock the CPU down using the locking lever.
- 8). Put a small drop of thermal paste in the center of the CPU, making sure that the paste is in contact with the processor's cores. Line up the heat sink and fan with the CPU and lower it into place, rocking it a few times in each direction to ensure that the thermal paste spreads evenly between the heat sink and the processor.
- 9). Screw the heat sink back into place, plugging the fan into the motherboard where you previously unplugged it.
- 10
Replace the left side panel and screw its retaining screws back in. Return the computer case to its upright position and plug it in, then press the power button to turn on the computer. - 11
Press the indicated key (such as "F2" or "Esc") to enter BIOS setup when the initial BIOS screen appears. Navigate to the processor information listing and make sure that your computer recognizes the new upgrade, and turn on features such as hyperthreading or virtualization support if they are not turned on. Press "F10" or any other indicated key to save changes and exit BIOS setup. - 12
Wait while your computer reboots again. Allow BIOS to load normally so that it can launch your operating system.
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