Install the CPU by opening the socket, carefully dropping the chip in with the alignment markers matched, then locking the socket and adding thermal paste and cooler on top.
Before you start
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Power off the PC and unplug the PSU, then press the power button once to discharge.
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Work on a clean, non‑conductive surface and ground yourself by touching a metal case or using an anti‑static strap.
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Confirm the CPU is compatible with the motherboard socket (e.g. LGA1700, AM5).
Open the CPU socket
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Locate the CPU socket and metal retention arm on the motherboard.
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Push the arm down and out to release it, then lift it fully to open the socket cover or frame, exposing the socket.
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Do not touch the pins or pads inside the socket to avoid permanent damage.
Place and lock the CPU
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Hold the CPU only by its edges and find the tiny triangle mark on one corner of the CPU and on the socket/bracket.
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Rotate the CPU so those triangles and side notches line up, then gently lower it straight into the socket; it should sit flat with zero force.
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Close the socket cover or frame and push the arm back down until it latches under the hook; any plastic protector will usually pop off as it locks.
Apply thermal paste
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If the CPU top is clean, put a small pea‑sized dot of thermal paste in the center of the heat spreader.
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For long rectangular chips, you can instead use a thin line down the middle, stopping short of the edges.
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Do not spread the paste manually; the cooler’s pressure will spread it when mounted.
Install the CPU cooler
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Position the cooler so its mounting holes or clips line up with the motherboard brackets.
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Lower it straight down onto the CPU, then tighten screws or engage clips in a cross pattern if applicable, using firm but not excessive pressure.
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Plug the cooler’s fan cable into the CPU_FAN header on the motherboard, then power on and check BIOS for normal CPU temperatures.
If you tell the exact CPU (Intel/AMD model) and socket (e.g. LGA1700, AM4/AM5), a more tailored step‑by‑step can be given.