Simple question: Do I have to install my CPU before my mobo?

[ZiKi]

I have every part for my computer except my CPU. Is it okay to install everything and then just pop in the CPU when I get it. Its a socket 775.

Sorry if this question is common sense or stupid, I haven't built a computer in years. Thanks for your kindness

 

[nickbits]

You could but it is generally much easier to install the CPU+HSF while the motherboard is out of the case.

 

[dbk]

unless you have a pullout tray in the case i wouldn't do it

 

[themisfit610]

If you're installing the stock Intel HSF, this is a perfectly viable option. Most 3rd party coolers are much larger, and therefore trickier to maneuver into position.

I prefer populating the board out of the case. That way I can verify that each of the ($*!()@$ stupid LGA775 retention pins are actually properly seated. I _hate_ the mounting mechanism. AM2 is much easier 🙂

~MiSfit

 

[DSF]

Since you can't use the computer until you have the CPU anyway, what's the point? It can be a pain in the ass to get the LGA 775 heatsink pushpins fully in place while the motherboard is already installed in the case.

 

[BW86]

Do u have to? No, but I think its a heck of a lot easier to install the cpu+hsf outside of the case.

 

[zerocool84]

Outside the case x100000000
Much easier to do.

 

[Denithor]

In fact, it's best to install CPU/RAM/GPU on the bare board, plug in the power & monitor and boot up the first time before you hook up accessories & drop into the case. That way you find any non-functional parts before it's all in the case and you have to rip it all back apart.

And if, by unfortunate chance, you are one of the lucky ones who assembles everything in the case & presses the power button & nothing happens, the first thing we're going to tell you is to pull the mobo/cpu/1 stick ram/gpu out & test for faulty parts. So just avoid the problem and boot up once on your desk before building in the case.

:beer: