*problem fixed*

[gamepad]

I needed to take my CPU fan/heatsink out, so I unscrewed it with a magnetic screwdriver. The fan/heatsink is actually screwed into the motherboard. After reinstallation, my computer won't start?

Is this just an expensive lesson for me?

Is the motherboard the only component I need to replace?

 

[SparkyJJO]

I always use a magnetic screwdriver and never a problem. Try reseating the CPU and heatsink, my guess is something isn't quite mounted right.

 

[gamepad]

Originally posted by: SparkyJJO
I always use a magnetic screwdriver and never a problem. Try reseating the CPU and heatsink, my guess is something isn't quite mounted right.

Well, I did as you said and it works. I didn't think a fan/heatsink mounted poorly would make the entire system not start.

I feel stupid.

 

[gamepad]

Ok after I reinserted the heatsink/fan, my system worked again. The only problem was the fan kept getting much louder than normal

I was thinking this time it wasn't screwed in enough.

So this time I added a minuscule amount of thermal paste and screwed the damn thing on until the screws don't turn anymore (not to the point of damage, but you know).

But, when I power on the system, it won't start! I hear the CPU fan for a half second, and everything stops. I tried many variations of tightness of the screws and nothing works...

Is there a secret to installing the heatsink/fan that I don't know?

Please somebody help this hardware noob; I need to be ready for the 8800gts that's coming in.

Edit: FYI, I am installing the fan correctly. It's not upside down or anything like that.