The Intel Core 2 Duo is a powerful computer processing unit that needs a heatsink to keep it cool and functioning properly. The heatsink is a large, aluminum assembly that has many heat dissipating fins along with a fan to keep the CPU at proper operating temperatures. The Intel Core 2 Duo has two processing cores in one chip. The chip generates more heat than a single core unit so properly installing the heatsink is vital to the health of the CPU.
Instructions
1. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cable from the back of the case. Remove your computer's case cover by unscrewing the retaining screws off the back of the computer or sliding open a panel, depending on the type of computer case you are using.
2. Disconnect the heatsink assembly fan's power cable from the motherboard. This is a small cable running off the side of the fan on top of the heatsink. It disconnects from a 4-pin power connector on the motherboard. Make a note of the pin position.
3. Locate the fastener caps on all four corners of the bottom of the heatsink. Use a flatheat screwdriver to turn the fastener cap a quarter of a turn counter clockwise. Repeat this process with the other three caps. Pull all four fastener caps up towards you to release the heatsink from the motherboard. Twist the heatsink assembly slowly until it releases completely.
4. Put a pea-sized dab of thermal paste on top of the CPU.
5. Align the heatsink assembly so the fan cable is on the same side as the power pins you removed the original fan's power cable from. Press the heatsink assembly down on top of the CPU and the thermal paste.
6. Check for the small holes on the motherboard surrounding the CPU socket. Align the fasteners with these holes and check that the heatsink fasteners are flush against the motherboard. Press down on the fastener tops one at a time to connect them to the motherboard. Plug the fan cable into the power pins and put the case cover on.
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