Build your own computer

Step 7 Installing the Processor

The processor is the piece of your computer that lets you use your computer. Therefore, it is very sensative and expensive. In other words, be carful. Take the same precautions as the motherboard (not that you shouldn't for everything else).

On your motherboard you will find a small metal square (Intel Pentium 4 and newer processors [not AMD processors]). There will be a small bar next to it. Pop that bar away from the square and up. This will loosen the metal square. Move the sqare on its hinge to an upright position and take out the plastic piece that is in it. Rotate the processor so that the notches on the processor line up with the notches in the open slot (part touching motherboard and not connected with hinge). Put the processor straight down on top of it and make sure it is place. If you did not put it in place the first time, PICK IT UP, do not slide it around, and put it back down.

Make sure the bar is still up and close the square. Push the bar back into it's original position.

For other processor types check the motherboard or processor manual. They should have a pictured set of instructions on how to install the processor. The above instructions will work for the recommended setup.