How to Remove Socket 478

A processor, or central processing unit (CPU), is an internal computer hardware component that is either hardwired to the system's motherboard or separately installed. Intel Pentium 4 and Celeron processors contain 478 pins and can only be installed on a motherboard that uses a Socket 478 package. While all processors and heat sinks are installed and removed primarily the same way, an Intel Socket 478 CPU/heat sink requires a few extra steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer owner's manual
• Small flat-head screwdriver

1. Back up your personal files and settings, then shut down the system. Unplug the power and monitor cables from the back of the computer.

2. Open the case (refer to your owner's manual if necessary), then touch something metal to eliminate static charge.

3. Unplug the CPU heat sink fan. Lift up the white plastic clip levers (located on each side of the heat sink) in opposite directions. Both clip levers should now be in an upward position.

4. Insert a small flat-head screwdriver in the notch near one of the clip frame corners. Push down on the clip frame latch, then rotate the screwdriver toward the heat sink. Unhook the clip latch from the retention mechanism.

5. Repeat Step 4 on the three remaining clip frame latches. Be careful not to allow the released latches to reattach to the retention mechanism hooks. If necessary, push down on one side of the clip frame while releasing the other side.

6. Remove the heat sink from the retention mechanism and CPU by twisting it back and forth slightly while pulling upward. This will break the thermal compound seal between the heat sink and CPU. Lift up the CPU socket handle, then carefully lift the processor out of the socket.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes quite a bit of force is required to remove the heat sink clip frame latches. Wear gloves to protect your hands if necessary, and watch out for sharp metal edges on the computer case.
• Intel does not recommend removing the original thermal material from the bottom of a Socket 478 heat sink. Although it's usually safe to reuse a heat sink, doing so may void the processor's warranty.

References

• Intel Pentium 4 Processors