The CPU processes data for the computer.
Replacing the Pentium 4 CPU on your Dell Dimension 4300 desktop may be necessary if the processor is broken or if you want to upgrade to a faster model. While some computer upgrades can be completed in just a few steps, replacing the CPU is a more complicated task that has expensive repercussions if done improperly. Avoid damaged hardware or wasted time by replacing the Pentium 4 CPU correctly the first time around.
Instructions
Replace a Pentium 4 CPU
1. The computer should stay unplugged throughout the project.
Turn off the Dell and unplug all cables connected to it. Hold the power button for several seconds to ground the motherboard. Turn the computer right side down. The arrow on the bottom of the system should be pointing upward.
2. Remember to touch the case once before handling any components.
Push the computer case release buttons located on the top and bottom of the PC near the back. Pull upward as you push in the buttons to open the case. It will swivel open on a hinge, revealing the internal components. Touch the case to remove static electricity from your body and ground yourself. You can easily damage a processor by exposing it to static charge.
3. Most heat sinks consist of a combination of copper and aluminum.
Pull the green airflow shroud up to reveal the heat sink. It should be immediately visible upon opening the computer. Unplug the CPU fan and 12V connector. The CPU fan uses a three-pin plug above the green shroud near the memory. The 12V plug is square with four pins and may be found directly to the right of the shroud.
4. Remove the heat sink covering the processor. Push down on the latches of each of the two clips holding the metal heat sink down. The clips will pop off. Twist the sink back and forth gently to loosen it from the CPU. You should now see the top of the Pentium 4.
5. Gently lift the CPU out of the socket.
Pull up the lever on the right of the CPU to release it from the socket. Grab the Pentium 4 from its sides and gently lift it out of the computer.
6. Apply thermal grease to the top of the CPU only.
Apply a thin layer of thermal grease to the top of the new CPU using a cotton swab. This white or gray substance should have come with your new Pentium 4. It quickly removes heat from the processor and transfers it to the heat sink. Installing your processor without thermal grease will damage it.
7. Pentium 4 CPUs have hundreds of delicate pins.
Align the new processor with the CPU socket and gently set it in place. There is a beveled edge on one corner of the CPU that should match up with a corresponding corner in the socket. Make sure that each pin is aligned with the corresponding hole in the socket. If the CPU does not fall into place naturally, do not force it. Pull it out and try again. The CPU pins break easily if forced.
8. Reinstall the heat sink above the CPU. Replace the latches and pull the green shroud back over the CPU. Plug the 3-pin CPU pin back in as well as the 4-pin 12V connector. Pull the top of the computer case down to close it. Plug all cables back into the computer. Your new CPU is ready to go.
Tags: heat sink, thermal grease, computer case, Dimension 4300, green shroud, Replace Pentium