What Is a Heat Sink on a CPU & How Do You Install It?
Much like a car's engine requires a cooling system to function properly, a computer's central processing unit needs cooling for reliable performance. A heat sink, placed directly atop the CPU, helps dissipate heat produced by the processor.
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Design
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CPU heat sinks are generally made of an aluminum, zinc or copper alloy. Metal fins extend from the base to further dissipate heat from the processor. Generally, the heat sink will cover the entire surface of the CPU.
Additional Cooling
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Most computer motherboard specifications call for a combination heat sink and CPU fan assembly to be mounted atop the CPU. While the fan requires connection to the motherboard via a power cable, the heat sink is a passive cooling measure and does not require power.
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Installation
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After placing the square, wafer-like CPU in its socket on the motherboard, apply a thermal compound or gel to the top of the CPU to assist heat transfer. Typically, the compound comes with the heat sink. With the compound applied, install the cooling fan bracket over the CPU socket. Clamp or screw the heat sink and fan assembly to the bracket. Motherboard designs vary somewhat, so be sure to read the user guides for the board and heat sink/fan assembly.
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References
- Photo Credit cpu image by aldan from Fotolia.com
