Learn to replace the CPU fan in your desktop computer.
Your Central Processing Unit (CPU) heats up when used for long periods of time, which is why every CPU chip has a dedicated cooling system attached to the CPU. This usually includes a cooling fan and heat sink. If your CPU's cooling fan goes bad, your CPU is likely to overheat and cause severe, sometimes irreversible damage to your motherboard and the surrounding components. Fortunately, most computers come with an alert system that lets you know when your cooling system is not working properly. When this happens you should look into immediately replacing your cooling fan.
Instructions
1. Turn off your desktop computer. Disconnect the power cable from its socket and any peripheral devices. Rotate the desktop so the back panel is facing towards you. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for your desktop computer to cool down.
2. Place the desktop on its left side and remove the retaining screws from the upper and lower right-hand corners of your desktop's back panel. Grasp the side access panel and slide it away from the computer and set it aside. Attach an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) wrist strap to your wrist and to the outer casing of the desktop. This helps prevent electrical damage to your desktop's hardware caused by static electricity.
3. Locate the CPU cooling fan on your motherboard. You may have to remove obstructing hardware devices. Refer to your computer's manual for specific instructions on what devices to remove and remove them.
4. Disconnect the CPU fan's cable from the motherboard, and then remove the four Phillips-head screws securing the fan to the motherboard. Lift the cooling fan off of the CPU and out of the computer.
5. Use a clean paper towel or cloth to apply a thin layer of thermal grease to the surface of the CPU chip. This will prevent your CPU from frying after you install the replacement fan.
6. Place the new fan face up over the CPU chip. Align the screw holes on the CPU with the screw holes on the CPU socket assembly. Replace the Phillips-head screws to secure the fan to the motherboard. Connect the new fan's power cable to the fan connector on the motherboard.
7. Replace the side access panel and its retaining screws. Place the desktop vertically, and then reconnect the power cable and peripheral devices. Turn on your desktop to test the new CPU fan.
Tags: your desktop, desktop computer, power cable, your cooling, your desktop computer, access panel