How to Service a CPU Unit That Is Overheating
All desktop motherboards are designed to power your central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is a small chip that allows your computer to perform essential hardware and software functions. It also has a tendency to overheat easily. Overheating can be caused by a build up of dust around the CPU's motherboard socket, or by a malfunctioning cooling fan. Both issues are relatively simple to fix, but you must partially dismantle your computer's outer case.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Turn off your desktop, unplug the power cable and all peripheral devices. Rotate the computer so the back panel is facing you.
-
2
Lay the computer on its left or right side, depending on where the side access panel is located on your desktop tower. Remove or disengage the retaining Phillips screws or levers that hold the left or right access panel in place. Lift the panel off of the computer to reveal its internal components.
-
-
3
Touch an unpainted metal surface to discharge static electricity from your body. Locate the cooling fan usually located near the center of the motherboard. Unplug the fan's power cable from the motherboard, and remove the retention screws fastening the fan to the motherboard.
-
4
Lift the fan out of the computer to reveal the processor chip. Use a can of compressed air to blow out all dust and debris from inside the fan.
-
5
Determine how the processor chip is secured to its motherboard socket. In most motherboards the processor is secured in place by a flat-head locking screw or by a retention lever. Lift up on the lever, or turn the locking screw in the counterclockwise direction one-half turn to disengage the processor from its socket.
-
6
Blow out all dust from the processor chip, and the empty motherboard socket. Reverse this procedure to put your computer back together, or if you need to replace the cooling fan.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
