Before replacing a server’s processor, it is necessary to shut the system down. Always adhere to best practice as the first step for installing any type of central processing unit.
To verify compatibility with the server’s BIOS, visit the server or motherboard manufacturer’s Web site. If the server’s current version of the BIOS does not support a particular CPU, download and install the latest BIOS.
Once the processor has been installed and the server is running again, create a new baseline report that documents server performance with the new CPU.
If installing a second processor to a motherboard, be sure to verify that the new CPU and old CPU are of the same stepping.
Installing Socket CPUs
Pentium Pro and All Modern Socket-Interfaced CPUs.
Equally important is taking care to see the chip's pin pattern matches the socket's pin pattern. This is easy to do because the CPU's pins are aligned to match socket holes.
To secure the microprocessor in the socket, press the CPU so that all of the chip's pins make secure contact with their corresponding socket holes. Once the chip has been inserted, it should be secured by pushing the lever to the "down" position.
Installing a Heat Sink and Fan
The fan design for current processors has changed. With four points of contact, the fan is solidly attached. The resulting direct contact with the processor allows for more efficient heat dissipation. If your CPU is running hot or the system is automatically shutting down due to an overheated processor, be sure that the four fan fasteners are completely attached to the motherboard. Improperly attaching the CPU fan so that it is not in complete contact with the processor will cause the CPU to overheat. Processors are now designed to automatically shut the computer down before the CPU is damaged.
Installing Slot CPUs
In the case of Pentium II, Pentium III, and All Slot-Interfaced CPUs:
The most significant modification to the CPU to motherboard connection is the absence of pin connectors. In motherboards built for Pentium II and Pentium III series processors, the CPU is attached to the board by means of a specially designed slot.
Pentium II and III chips feature edge connectors (also referred to as single-edge connectors), such as those found on expansion cards
Because they tend to run hot, Pentium II and III chips require supplemental air cooling, in addition to the air from a power supply fan. A fan and heat sink must be attached to the chip before it is attached to its motherboard slot (Slot 1).
A conductive material is spread on both the heat sink and the CPU. This is done so heat will transfer more efficiently from the CPU to the heat sink. The fan attached to the heat sink helps move heat, generated by the processor, into the case for removal from the system. Pins on the back side of the heat sink are inserted into the holes on the back of the CPU, while spring clips are inserted on the front of the heat sink to help secure the connection.
The newly joined CPU and fan are then slid into Slot 1, establishing a firm connection between the edge connector and the slot.
Although this example specifically addresses installation of the Pentium II and Pentium III into a slot interface, the procedure discussed is the same for all slot-interfaced CPUs. This includes the slot versions of the Intel Celeron and AMD Athlon processors.
Installing a New Processor on an Old Computer
There are three ways to install a new processor on the motherboard of an old computer:
- Depending on the motherboard, it may be possible to simply replace the CPU with a superior unit from the same CPU family.
- Replace the motherboard with one that can support a new CPU.
- Use specialty products that are engineered to allow an older motherboard to support a new CPU.
When upgrading or replacing equipment, especially CPUs, RAM, and expansion slot devices, make sure that the devices are firmly seated. A computer that will not POST is a good indication that a device is not properly seated.
If a computer is running slow and gets bogged down by simple tasks, it may be time to consider upgrading the processor. Unfortunately, and for a number of different reasons, some motherboards are not upgradeable. The following section explains why.
- Proprietary Motherboards - Years ago, some motherboards were built to run with a permanent chip and were not functional with any processor but the original. For some proprietary motherboards, compatible CPU upgrades were never manufactured.
- Chip Families - Some motherboards are designed to house only certain families of processors, for which suitable upgrades were never manufactured. In some cases, the processor family has been discontinued.
- Outdated Processors - If the computer is very old, it may not be possible to upgrade with a new chip. Some motherboards are simply too outdated to accommodate the accelerated speed of today's chips. Refer to the motherboard’s manual for more information.
