How To Build A Computer Part 4: Installing The CPU And The Cooler

After installing your motherboard, the next thing to look at is the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of course. In this part of How To Build A Computer we take a look at your processor and your coolers and how to put them all together.

Firstly, most CPUs are designed with an array of pins which fit into corresponding holes on the CPU socket of the motherboard. No matter which type of CPU you have, before installing the CPU inspect the pins to make sure that they are straight. A CPU with bent pins should be returned to the store for a new one.

Next the CPU is held in place with a lever which exerts a small amount of force on the pins. The lever is located on the side of the CPU socket. Orient the CPU by lining up the clearly marked pin number one. Let the CPU fall into place and secure it by replacing the lever.

With the CPU in place, you can install the cooling unit. This is the finned metal block with the fan attached to it. The block is the heat sink. Its large surface area dissipates heat quickly and the fan blows cool air through the heat sink for maximum cooling.

The heat sink must come in direct contact with the CPU. Because the CPU or the heat sink (or both) may have uneven surfaces a pad or paste can be used to provide maximum contact between the two. The thermal pad or thermal paste is placed on the raised part in the middle of the CPU. If using thermal paste, a small dab the size of the grain of rice is sufficient.

The cooler should come with a variety of attachments for different CPUs. At this stage you will need to refer to the cooler documentation for in order to choose the right one. The attachments usually fit to the CPU socket with either 2 or 4 attachment points. You will probably have to use a little bit of force to clip the cooler securely in place. The cooler can now be connected to the power source near the CPU. Look for a 3 pin power lead marked 'CPU Fan.'

How To Build A Computer Part 4