Broken Northbridge Heatsink Bracket

[Ken6PPC]

I posted this on the "Cases & Cooling" page, but I thought those who frequents this page might be a better source for info.

A friend of mine brought me a computer that he asked me to see if I can repair for him. It is a Dell 4600C, and I was told that it simply "quit working".

When I opened the case, I found the northbridge heatsink off the motherboard, and one of the connecting tabs that the retaining spring is supposed to hook into is missing. I haven't gone any further, but I'd say that is a prime suspect to be THE problem. (Certainly a contributing factor, if nothing else.)

Can this be repaired in any way, or is it new motherboard time for my friend's computer? The area around the northbridge doesn't appear to be damaged, and I didn't see any blown caps.

Thanks in advance for any and all replies! ...Ken

 

[abs0lut3]

I think you can buy a northbridge heatsink with a thermal tape on it that with a little bit of weight should be sufficient for a guy who doesn't do anything extreme on his board.

 

[keldog7]

Buy the Zalman NB-47J, which comes with more clips...then either use the improved heatsink & clips, or just scavenge the clips from the package... Of course, re-reading your post, it sounds familiar...and I think you may have gotten Dell to come out and fix the box.

 

[abs0lut3]

Originally posted by: keldog7
Buy the Zalman NB-47J, which comes with more clips...then either use the improved heatsink & clips, or just scavenge the clips from the package... Of course, re-reading your post, it sounds familiar...and I think you may have gotten Dell to come out and fix the box.

The problem is the Motherboard is missing the TAB THAT HOLDS the spring.

I think OP should be able to find some refurbished motherboard somewhere...last time I checked it wasn't too expensive or just stick a passive one in there.