Can I install my CPU / Cooler without removing my motherboard

[Sav]

Hey Guys,

I have received all my computer parts except my CPU and cooler. Can I begin putting my computer together and just add the CPU / Cooler when I get it or would it be better if I waited to install it on the mobo and then put the mobo in the computer?

My parts are:
Antec P180
Gigabyte DS3 V3.3

Soon to arrive:
E6400
Arctic Freezer Pro 7

This is the first PC I've built in 5 years and a ton has changed so this process is gonna take a long time for me and I figured might as well get a jump start while waiting for the CPU to come so I can boot up as soon as possible when it arrives

Thanks!

 

[nJett]

Not familiar with your specific gear, but I typically install the CPU & HSF before mounting the motherboard in the case because it is easier to see exactly what you are doing. That said, I've swapped numerous CPUs out of computers without removing the motherboard, which is in effect the same thing as what you would be doing.
If you're certain that you can get the CPU and HSF in there once the motherboard is mounted (i.e. the case or PSU cables won't impede you) then I'd go ahead and put that thing together now and then get the CPU in there when it arrives.

 

[Sav]

I am not really sure if I can :/, I haven't seen the HSF or CPU before so I dunno how they even look / their shape / how it installs. I was hoping someone who has done this before with those parts could tell me if it's possible as I am a total newbie to this .

Thanks again

 

[CoachB]

I've got two AC freezer pros (the AMD models) and both are a bit of a pain to install with the mobo in the case. It can be done but you need to be patient and calm. In your case I would wait and install outside of case.

 

[imported_Nacelle]

See if you can find the manual to the HSF, online. Alot of them require you to have the mobo out on intel systems.

 

[crimson117]

It can be done inside the case I would think, but it'd be much easier outside.

But if you've installed everything else, like video card, ram, sata cables, parallel cables, you're going to be very cramped when trying to drop in a CPU and install the HSF.

So I'd recommend just waiting, as hard as it may be.

 

[vailr]

Caution: a CPU cooler that uses a (non-insulated) metal backplate is likely to short out the CPU.
However, the Arctic Freezer Pro 7 does NOT use a backplate.
Close-up photos:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16835186134

 

[Wags1974]

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/ewags1974/Picture031.jpg]

Works fine on the dq6 so I am sure it will fit the ds3. It just snaps on no backplate or anything.

edit: I just wanted to mention. This cooler is awesome, youll be happy with your purchase. My e4300@3.\ghz is idling at 29c as I type this.