The CPU area before the upgrade

• Unplug your computer, open the case, and ground yourself to prevent static damage.
• Unplug the CPU fan from its power source (either the motherboard or a Molex connector).
• Remove the HSF unit. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to push down the clip holding the HSF to the socket. Be very careful with this step.

The lever in the "up" position

• Remove the old CPU by pulling out and up the plastic or metal lever, and then lifting out the CPU by its sides~

Notice how the bottom of the heatsink is parallel to
the CPU core and touching it

Reverse the above steps to install the new CPU:

• Insert the new CPU, being sure to match the pins to the holes. The CPU will only fit in one direction and will not require any force to insert. If you need to force it in, the CPU is incorrectly oriented. Once the CPU is in the socket, lower and lock the lever.
• If your HSF unit does not have some already, apply a thin layer of thermal compound to the CPU core.

Install the HSF unit, being sure to orient the HSF unit such that the CPU core is completely flush against the bottom of the heatsink. Again, you may need a flathead screwdriver. You must also be very careful with this step so as not to damage the CPU and/or the motherboard. Remember, if you power up your system without the HSF unit properly attached, you will cause permanent damage to the CPU!

The CPU fan header without and with a fan plugged in

• Plug the CPU fan into the proper power source.
• Do not close the case (yet).

Before closing the case and finalizing the installation, plug in and power up your computer to verify that the new CPU is working properly. Confirm that the CPU fan is spinning. Carefully touch the heatsink to make sure it is warm. Check the CPU temperature in the BIOS to make sure the temperature is not rising rapidly. Verify that you can boot into your operating system. If all of the above check out, congratulations! You have successfully upgraded your CPU. Power down the computer, close the case, and enjoy your new CPU. If, on the other hand, the results are not what you expected, consult the troubleshooting section on the next page.