Remove a processor and heat sink

Processors are to be accessed from the top of the compute nodes, which are to be removed from the enclosure for processor and heat sink replacement. This task has instructions for removing an assembled processor and heat sink, known as a processor-heat-sink module (PHM), a processor, and a heat sink. All of these tasks require a Torx T30 driver.

Read

Power off

ATTENTION: Static Sensitive Device

Attention

• Each processor socket must always contain a cover or a PHM. When removing or installing a PHM, protect empty processor sockets with a cover.

• Do not touch the processor socket or processor contacts. Processor-socket contacts are very fragile and easily damaged. Contaminants on the processor contacts, such as oil from your skin, can cause connection failures.

• Remove and install only one PHM at a time. If the system board supports multiple processors, install the PHMs starting with the first processor socket.

• Do not allow the thermal grease on the processor or heat sink to come in contact with anything. Contact with any surface can compromise the thermal grease, rendering it ineffective. Thermal grease can damage components, such as electrical connectors in the processor socket. Do not remove the grease cover from a heat sink until you are instructed to do so.

• Thermal grease can stay functional on the heat sink for two years. When installing a new heat sink, make sure to check the manufacturing date to ensure the thermal grease is still functioning. If the date is over two years ago, replace the thermal grease to avoid seating issues.

Before you remove a PHM:

Note

The heat sink, processor, and processor retainer for your system might be different than those shown in the illustrations.

1. Read the following section(s) to ensure that you work safely.

   • Installation Guidelines

2. Turn off the corresponding compute node that you are going to perform the task on.

3. Remove the compute node or compute-expansion node assembly from the chassis (see Remove a compute node from the enclosure or Remove the compute-expansion node assembly from the enclosure).
4. Remove the compute node cover or disengage the PCIe expansion node (see Remove the compute node cover or Disengage the PCIe expansion node from a compute node).
5. Remove the air baffle (see Remove the air baffle).

Figure 1. Processor locations

Complete the following steps to remove a PHM.

1. If the processor comes with a T-shaped heat sink, remove the two screws on the sides of the node.
   Figure 2. Removing screws that secure the T-shaped heat sink
   
   
2. Remove the PHM from the system board.
   Figure 3. Removing a PHM
   
   

   Attention

   To prevent damage to components, make sure that you follow the indicated loosening sequence.
   1. Fully loosen the Torx T30 captive fasteners on the processor-heat-sink module in the removal sequence shown on the heat-sink label.
   2. Lift the processor-heat-sink module from the processor socket.