For Intel Core i5, i7, and i9 processors, the socket is a slightly oblong segment of the motherboard with a narrow metal arm running along one of the long sides. This retention arm levers a bracket into place, which secures the CPU, and is secured by default. To install a new CPU, ...
When the CPU’s installed, it’s time to attach the cooler. If you’re using the stock Intel cooler there will already be thermal grease on the underside of the heatsink. If you’re using an aftermarket cooler, then you’ll need to apply a small rice-grain-sized do...
The bracket will keep the CPU from falling out when the motherboard is installed inside a PC case. The next stage is to install a cooler to take heat away from the component. Intel's cooler Depending on where you buy the Intel processor, you may also receive a stock cooler. This is m...
but the process is pretty similar for PGA sockets like AM4 and AM3. The process of installing enthusiast chips like the AMD Threadripper and Intel's Xeon CPUs is slightly different, but you probably already know how to install a CPU if you're dealing with those chips....
But it’s worth a shot, especially if you want to avoid the added complexity of overclocking a CPU in the BIOS. Let’s get straight into the basic steps to overclock using XTU as a first-timer.Step 1: Run Base BenchmarkDownload and install Intel XTU from Intel’s site, close all ...
VisitIntel® Processor Installation Centerfor more information on integrating desktop processors. These instructions assume that the boxed processor and fan heat sink are new and the factory-applied thermal interface material is applied to the bottom of the fan heat sink. ...
Before we begin, you’ll need some software and hardware to test everything is running in place. You’ll need the following. Prime95for CPU stress testing. Core TempforCPU temperature monitoring A better cooler for better temperature The stock cooler that comes with your Intel CPU isn’t gre...
Installing a CPUon the motherboard is among the first things you have to do while building a PC. It is, however, incomplete until you install a CPU cooler, which is essential to maintain the thermal output of the CPU. You can even install it at the end after you're done assembling ot...
Whether it’s installing a 12th generation Intel Alder Lake or an AMD Ryzen 5000 CPU, we can show you how to pop your processor into your motherboard hassle-free
Step 3: Consider Additional CPU Features Beyond simple measurements like clock speed and core count, there are other features to consider when choosing a new CPU. Integrated Graphics Most Intel® CPUs use integrated graphics, meaning they can display graphics on screen without a discrete GPU. Int...