Install a CPU Chip
The CPU or Central Processing Unit is indeed the brains behind any computer system. Without the CPU chip, the computer simply can't do anything at all. The CPU has three sections, the Arithmetic Logic Unit, the Registers and its Control Unit. As these chips become faster and faster, the RAM (random access memory) must also keep up with the development and thus, become much faster as well.
Steps
- Determine which CPU is in your computer either by reading the start-up screen or using diagnostic software. You may also determine your CPU type and speed by removing the system unit cover and taking a good long look at the chip. Look at the label on the chip to determine its model, speed,and the manufacturer.
- Note: If a Heat Sink or a Fan is installed on top of the chip, you will have to remove these components to view the CPU label.
- Turn off and unplug the system unit.
- Disconnect any components that may be in the way of removing the system unit's cover.
- Remove the screws from the rear of the case and slide the cover away from the system unit case.
- Place the cover away in a safe place.
- Remove any and all electrical static charge from your clothes and body by touching a doorknob or any other grounded object.
- Locate the CPU Chip. The chip will be mounted onto the motherboard in a socket and depending on the type of computer you have, the socket may be shaped in various forms.
- Note: Some CPU chips are soldered onto the motherboard and can only be upgraded by removing and installing a new motherboard. This type of chip is referred to as the Proprietary CPU Chip.
- Check your computer's manual to see if the CPU is Proprietary before you consider upgrading to a more powerful processor. If the manual tells you to consult will the manufacturer if you want to upgrade the processor, it's mostly likely a propriety Central Processing Unit.
- Remove such components as the hard drive or an expansion slot to gain full access the chip if necessary. Newer Tower units allow easy access by removing a couple screws and sliding the panel with the motherboard down.
- Once the CPU is in plain view, grasp the lever on the Zero Insertion Force sockets and carefully but firmly pull the lever straight up. This lever is normally located on the side of the chip. Some chips may contain a clamp that must be removed as well. Check your owner's manual to see the components of your CPU.
- Note: Some chips are covered by a Heat Sink and/or a Cooling Fan. These components will have to be removed and set aside.
- Place the beveled end of the chip to match the beveled end of the socket when inserting the new chip. This was designed so that the chip can be installed in only one direction.
- Confirm that the chip you buy is compatible with your system and ask if you can return the chip if there are any problems. Be sure that the upgrade will perform what you want it to do. Your computer's performance will improve with a CPU upgrade but you may need to add more ram if you want to improve your Windows programs.
- Check to see if all connections are seated firmly and properly in their sockets. This is a must as these connections do tend to work themselves loose over time and cause problems you may blame on software.
- Note: If you have been working in your system unit recently and you noticed a fault manifesting itself, you want to go back and take a look at all connections you were near. Look to be sure your fingers did not press against other connections and causing then to work loose.
- Perform preventive maintenance on your computer and keep it clean regularly. It's a good idea to open up the system unit and remove all dust that have accumulated on the motherboard as well as all other boards from time to time.
Warnings
- Be absolutely sure you have removed any and all electrical static buildup from yourself before working inside your computer and before touching any new circuit cards and chips. It would be a tragedy to purchase new memory only to short circuit them either before you installed them or during the process of installation.
- In some cases, the chip may not be compatible with the BIOS of your computer. Be sure to see what BIOS versions your chip is compatible with.
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