Removing a CPU heat sink is possibly difficult and annoying hardware process that many PC owners are probable to execute. Many heat sinks are not intended with user friendliness in mind, and harm can be done to both processor and motherboard if process is executed inappropriately. Recognize type of heat sink utilized in PC, and then utilize a steady hand to remove it securely.

Instructions

Heat Sink with Single Retaining Clip

Step 1

Recognize a heat sink with keeping clip by looking for a metal bracket that goes through heat sink, clipping to both sides of CPU socket.

Step 2

Search for a raised tab on one side of keeping clip. If you get one, press keeping clip to motherboard to move clip below the plastic tab on CPU socket. Press raised tab in to release retaining clip. If there is no raised tab, go on.

Step 3

Search for a little curved part of metal projecting from clip. Put in flat head screwdriver into this curve, and it will hold. Press screwdriver down, then turn it to release clip.

Step 4

Detach heat sink fan cable from motherboard, and acquire out heat sink by lifting and twisting it away from CPU.

Heat Sink with Tightening Lever

Step 1

Recognize a heat sink with a tightening handle by in search of one or two metal arms on either side of heat sink. This kind of heat sink will also have a plastic frame around CPU socket. Every corner of heat sink will be clipped to plastic frame.

Step 2

Put in flat head screwdriver into any one heat sink corner holes. It will meet heat sink's retaining clips. Press the clip down and out to release it from plastic frame. Do again this procedure for left over three corners.

Step 3

Detach heat sink fan cable from motherboard, and take out heat sink by raising and bending it away from CPU.

Heat Sink with Release Pegs

Step 1

Recognize a heat sink with release pegs by in search of a big plastic peg on every corner of heat sink. Every peg will have a mark to lodge a flat head screwdriver.

Step 2

Bend one peg using hand or screwdriver, one-quarter rotate counter clockwise. Raise peg, and it will appear. Do again this for remaining pegs.

Step 3

Detach heat sink fan cable from motherboard, and take out heat sink by raising and twisting it away from the CPU.