Cpu installation tips?

[Avalanche007]

This is my first time ive installed an Athlon XP and I'm starting to get freaked out hearing all these people cracking cpu's and burning them up, I've never had this problem with intel cpu's or the old thunderbirds. What gives? Can someone give me some tips? I dont want to crack my new 1800+ installing the heat sink. Thankx

 

[Dan]

The biggest key is to apply slow, even pressure when you attach the heatsink. Once it's on, don't rock it back and forth just to "make sure" it's on tight. And, if you're really concerned about chipping the core, you may want to consider using a copper shim.

 

[Migroo]

Yep, just do it slowly.

Double check.

Double check.

And again, double check - before you do ANYTHING.

IF you are careful, you'll be fine.

 

[Garet Jax]

Avalanche007,

Two things.

If you are really worried about destroying your chip. You may want to buy a used Duron for < $20. That way you can practice installing the HSF on the inexpensive chip and not risk the 1800+ XP.

In terms of copper shims, be a little careful. Although they can make installation a little safer, if they are too thick, then they will prevent the HSF from connecting properly and you could fry your chip. On the other hand, if they are too thin, then you won't get as much CORE protection as you think when installing the HSF and you may still chip the CORE.

In all reality though, as long as you take things slowly and gently, then you shouldn't have any trouble with or without a shim.

 

[Slogun]

The one time I fried a CPU (Athlon 1.4 - ouch) was when I used a copper shim. Thought I was doing something helpful for my computer. Don't know if it caused a short or was too thick to prevent adequate conact, but I will never use a shim again.

 

[zodder]

Am I just too careful, or what? I have never, ever had a problem installing, reinstalling my SK6 on my 1700+ or my T-bird without a shim. I have never come close to cracking, chipping or otherwise mutilating it either.

1. Clear CMOS if there was another chip in there (never can tell if too much voltage will course through your cpu. Better to be safe than sorry)
2. Latch the rear heat sink clip on the socket tab.
3. Raise the heatsink up a little and place it squarely in the slug.
4. Latch the front of the heat sink clip on the socket.
5. Overclock like a mutha.

Why use a shim?

 

[Migroo]

I've never damaged a chip either.

I suppose a lot of people worry because of the horror stories, so:

1) Just be careful when you install
2) If you DO damage a chip, then is the time to start worrying.