CPU Socket Tutorial

The top part of a computer's motherboard usually houses the CPU within a socket that appears square. The older sockets consist of a plastic material with small holes in them for the CPU's pins and the newest sockets, as of 2010, contain a grid of metal contacts that spring up where the CPU nests itself on. CPU sockets make sure data goes in and out of a CPU efficiently, maintaining the communication between the processor and other components in the computer. The socket also feeds power to the CPU, providing adequate voltage and wattage to the unit.

• 1

  Turn your computer around so the back faces in your direction and remove all of its cables.

• 2

  Remove the screws holding the right cover of the computer to the body.

• 3

  Remove the cover from the computer by pulling back on it slightly and lifting it off.

• 4

  Look around for a large cooling fan on top of a socket. You found your CPU socket. To determine the value of your socket, look around the component itself for writing on your motherboard. You should read something starting with "LGA" or "ZIF." This number represents what CPUs your motherboard has compatibility with. To get a new CPU, buy one with the same socket number.