How hard is it to install a E8400/Q6600 CPU?

[LW07]

The one thing that i'm worried about when I upgrade my system(X2 4800+, 2 gigs of ram, X1900XT) to a C2D system is that i might mess up on the installation of the CPU/heatsink. I've heard its quite hard to install E8400/Q6600 and other C2D chips.

Is installing the CPU hard?

 

[nomagic]

Like all other delicate work, all that is required are patience and steady hands. If you know what you are doing, you will be fine.

Installing C2D/Q CPUs are actually quite easy. Just align and orient the CPU properly. Make sure you watch this VIDEO.

The real pain is the stock push-pin heatsink. It might take a few practices before you learn how to seat it properly.

 

[shafeen]

i hate the push pin of the heatsink.......put it in one direction and it comes out from the other

 

[Liet]

If you can afford $30 or $40, I recommend you purchase an aftermarket cooler, specifically one with a backplate with screws. Over time, and with use, the stock Intel cooler pins can warp or no longer function, which drove me insane durign my last CPU install. Besides installation, your CPU should run a bit cooler, as well.

I picked up this ASUS cooler. Too lazy to do the rebate, but theoretically it's only $25. Well worth it to avoid the aggravation of those damned push-pins.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16835101011

 

[RPatrick]

I've been thinking about the same issue.

It seems if you buy any heatsink with screws and a backplate rather than pushpins, the install is a piece of cake. These can be found for as little as $15 or $20.

 

[Gillbot]

you can replace most push pins with this:
http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/lgbowiscsp.html

Otherwise, if you use the push pins, it's best to pull the mobo for installation. I have seen MANY people think the pins were seated fully but they were not.

 

[ch33zw1z]

The stock HSF design is really the only issue with socket 775 that I've had...just plain cheap.

 

[FalseChristian]

Originally posted by: ch33zw1z
The stock HSF design is really the only issue with socket 775 that I've had...just plain cheap.

That's because Intel doesn't want to encourage overclocking. Intel knows us 5% who are overclocking junkies will just buy a better cooler. Intel has the speed-crown so they can skimp on that useless stock cooler.

 

[nerp]

Just go get an aftermarket heatsink with a backplate and thumbscrews. My Tuniq tower is one of my better investments.

 

[Binky]

There is no need to spend money on another heatsink if you don't plan to overclock. Just install the heatsink with the MB outside of the case. Use a large flathead scredriver and a steady hand. No coffee before installation time. Don't slip and gouge the MB! It's really not that hard.

 

[Concillian]

If you do the install out of the case, you can flip the motherboard over and verify from the bottom side that the pins are all the way in. It's really obvious when one is only partly in. It's the easiest way to make sure the pins don't screw you up.

First time I did pins, I thought they were all in, but they weren't and my CPU temps were high. Since then if I do pins, I always install first, flip and check pins, then put the mobo in. But for my main machine I got a Xigmatek S1283 and thermalright bolt through kit. For the $5 or whatever, it's cheap insurance.

 

[amenx]

Its usually easy and the pins install without too much effort. BUT, not always. Some holes/pins are not an exact fit and much force may be required. I've experienced both situations on different motherboards.

 

[daw123]

I would personally invest in the bolt through kit or purchase a HSF with the bolt through kit included.

It's much easier and you will guarantee that the HSF is seated properly.

Plus you can re-use the kit over and over again.