This is the underside of a Pentium 4 (478-pin)
Upgrading your motherboard can have tremendous benefits, both in performance and with the overall capabilities of the computer system. While the Intel Pentium 4 processors are some of the most popular, the name itself represents several different kinds of components. Some of these processors can only be used with a motherboard designed specially for that type.
Instructions
Identify the Pentium 4 socket type
1. Socket example
Open the PC case. You may need to use a screwdriver to release the panel covering the motherboard, drives and power supply. Other types of PC cases have a release mechanism that allows the case to slide open.
2. Carefully remove the fan/heat sink assembly to access the processor itself. Some computers will be more complex than others, so additional components may need to be moved aside before removing the fan/heat sink assembly.
3. Clearly embossed into the processor socket is the socket type. Among the Pentium 4 processor family, it would be "Socket 423," "Socket 478" or "Socket 775." Make a note of this to compare with the other motherboard in the next step.
4. If the other motherboard has the same socket type as the first one, you should be able to safely move the processor into the new computer. If so, Skip Step 5 and move on to the next section.
5. If the two motherboards use different sockets, then the new computer cannot use the same Pentium 4 processor; it cannot be moved from one to the other. If you can obtain a motherboard that uses the same socket as the old one, then proceed to the next section after switching it out.
Transferring your Pentium 4 processor
6. Handle components with care.
Completely remove the fan/heat sink assembly from the case, disconnecting any wires that are attached to the motherboard. Set it aside, being careful to keep the smooth heat-conductive surface clean.
7. With the area around the CPU cleared, carefully lift the small lever at the side of the socket. This releases the processor from the socket.
8. With the processor released, carefully lift it from the socket using just your fingertips, holding it just by the sides. Place the processor on a soft cloth or a folded paper towel so it can be moved safely.
9. At the second motherboard, lift the small lever on the empty socket. The socket is now ready to receive the processor.
10. Transport the processor to the second motherboard and carefully place it in the socket. Notice how the processor is missing a pin or two on a certain corner, also marked with a dot or triangle. Find the matching corner on the socket and align the processor so that it fits properly. Drop (do not press) the processor into the socket, checking that it lies flat, and lower the lever once again to secure it.
Prepping the Pentium 4 processor
11. The fan/heat sink assembly has to be moved.
With the socket closed and the processor secured, wipe the old grease from the surface. Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol compound if necessary. When nearly all of the grease is removed, apply a very-small amount of fresh thermal compound to the center of the processor surface. (about the size of a BB is just enough)
12. Carefully lower the fan/heat sink assembly into place. A newer motherboard may use a different bracket than the old one. Lower the shiny heat-conductive surface on to the thermal grease compound so it is flat and spreads the grease evenly. When done properly, and with the right amount of grease, there should be no excess around the edges of the socket.
13. Secure the fan/heat sink assembly to the motherboard bracket and plug the power harness to the appropriate connector on the motherboard. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation on the exact location of the CPU fan power connector.
14. Be sure to add the rest of the system (power, memory, drives, video, keyboard and mouse) before testing the processor on the new motherboard. If all goes well, the new computer should power-up and boot normally.
15. Follow-up: When using a new processor on any motherboard, the BIOS will need to adjust itself to the specific processor type. This usually means a quick visit to the BIOS Setup Utility before the first time booting an operating system; select "Reset to Defaults" or a similar option, then "Save & Exit" to start using the computer.
Tags: heat sink, heat sink assembly, sink assembly, Pentium processor, socket type