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Removing a microprocessor and heat sink

Use this information to remove a microprocessor and heat sink from the blade server.

Read the following important guidelines before you remove a microprocessor that is not faulty (for example, when you are replacing the system-board assembly).

If you are not replacing a defective heat sink or microprocessor, the thermal material on the heat sink and microprocessor will remain effective if you carefully handle the heat sink and microprocessor when you remove or install these components. Do not touch the thermal material or otherwise allow it to become contaminated.

Notes
  1. The microprocessor and heat sink assembly is a field-replaceable unit (FRU) and must be replaced by a trained service technician. To contact an IBM service representative, see Hardware service and support.
  2. The heat-sink FRU is packaged with the thermal material applied to the underside. This thermal material is not available as a separate FRU. You must replace the heat sink when new thermal material is required, such as when a defective microprocessor is replaced or if the thermal material is contaminated or has come in contact with another object other than its paired microprocessor.
  3. A heat-sink FRU can be ordered separately if the thermal material becomes contaminated.

To remove a microprocessor, complete the following steps.

Graphic illustrating the removal of a microprocessor and heat sink
  1. Before you begin, read Safety and Installation guidelines.
  2. If the blade server is installed in a BladeCenter® unit, remove it (see Removing the blade server from the BladeCenter unit for instructions).
  3. Remove the blade server cover (see Removing the blade server cover for instructions).
  4. If an optional expansion unit is installed, remove the expansion unit (see Removing an optional expansion unit).
  5. Remove the heat sink.
    Attention
    Do not touch the thermal material on the bottom of the heat sink. Touching the thermal material will contaminate it. If the thermal material on the microprocessor or heat sink becomes contaminated, you must replace the heat sink.
    1. Loosen the screw on one side of the heat sink to break the seal with the microprocessor.
    2. Press firmly on the captive screws and loosen them with a screwdriver.
    3. Use your fingers to gently pull the heat sink from the microprocessor.
    Attention
    Do not use any tools or sharp objects to lift the release lever on the microprocessor socket. Doing so might result in permanent damage to the system board.
    Graphic illustrating the microprocessor and heat sink

  6. Rotate the locking lever on the microprocessor socket from its closed and locked position until it stops in the fully open position (approximately a 135° angle). Lift the microprocessor retainer cover upward.
  7. Use your fingers to pull the microprocessor out of the socket.
    Graphic illustrating the microprocessor and heat sink
  8. If you are instructed to return the microprocessor and heat sink, follow all packaging instructions, and use any packaging materials for shipping that are supplied to you.