Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
PopulatingtheMotherboard
It is always easier to populate the motherboard—i.e., install the processor and
memory—while the motherboard is outside the case. In fact, sometimes you
must do so, because installing the CPU cooler requires access to both sides of
the motherboard. (Some cases, including the Antec DF-85, have a CPU cutout
in the motherboard tray that gives access to the CPU cooler area on the bot-
tom of the motherboard. With one of these cases, you can swap out the pro-
cessor or replace the CPU cooler without removing the motherboard.)
Even if it is possible to populate the motherboard while it is installed in the
case, we always recommend doing so with the motherboard outside the case
and lying flat on the work surface. More than once, we've tried to save a few
minutes by replacing the processor without removing the motherboard. Too
often, the result has been a damaged motherboard and/or processor. (Most
recently, Robert managed to pull out the CPU by its pins while attempting to
remove the CPU cooler in Barbara's sister's old system. We ended up replacing
that system with the budget system described earlier in this topic.)
Installingtheprocessor
First, and we can't emphasize this enough—particularly if you're installing a
$1,000 processor—
always ground yourself
before touching the processor,
motherboard, or other static-sensitive components. You can do that just by
touching an exposed metal surface of the power supply or the case chassis.
Even if the system is not plugged into a wall receptacle, the metal mass of the
power supply and chassis provides an adequate sink to dissipate any static
charge.
To begin, open the socket lever by pressing it down and away from the latch,
as shown in Figure 5-21. The tension is quite high, so you have to apply signifi-
cant pressure to release the lever.
Raise the socket lever to the fully vertical position, as shown in Figure 5-22.
Figure 5-21.
Open the socket lever by pressing it down and sliding
it out from under the latch
Figure 5-22.
Raise the socket lever to the fully vertical position
