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Removing a microprocessor and heat sink

Use this information to remove a microprocessor and heat sink. Microprocessors are installed in both the upper and lower compute nodes.

Note
This procedure should be performed only by trained service technicians.
Before you remove a microprocessor and heat sink, complete the following steps:
  1. Read Safety and Installation guidelines.
  2. If the Flex System x222 Compute Node is installed in a chassis, remove it (see Removing a compute node from a chassis for instructions).
  3. Carefully lay the compute node on a flat, static-protective surface, orienting the compute node with the bezel pointing toward the left.
The following notes describe information that you must consider when you remove a microprocessor:
  • Each microprocessor socket must always contain a socket cover and heat-sink filler or a microprocessor and heat sink. If the compute node has only one microprocessor, it must be installed in microprocessor socket 1.
  • The microprocessor installation tool might become worn after several uses. Make sure that the tool can hold the microprocessor securely if you are reusing an existing microprocessor installation tool. Do not return the tool with other parts that you are returning.
  • If you are installing a second microprocessor, the option kit comes with a microprocessor installation tool that you must use when you install a microprocessor. The microprocessor installation tool comes with the replacement microprocessor installed on it and a cover over the microprocessor.
  • If you are replacing a defective microprocessor, the CRU kit comes with one installation tool with the replacement microprocessor installed on it and a cover over the microprocessor, and one empty installation tool without a cover.
  • If you are replacing a defective microprocessor, you must obtain the following for use during the replacement procedure (see Parts listing, Types 7916 and 2589).
    • Alcohol wipes
    • Thermal grease

To remove a microprocessor and heat sink, complete the following steps.


Graphic illustrating the installation of a heat sink

  1. Remove the upper compute node (see Removing the upper compute node).
  2. Locate the microprocessor that is to be removed from the upper or lower compute node (see System-board connectors).
  3. 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.
    1. Using a P1 Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screw on one side of the heat sink to break the seal with the microprocessor.
    2. Using a P1 Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screws on the heat sink, rotating each screw two full turns until each screw is loose.
    3. Gently pull the heat sink from the microprocessor.
    Attention
    Do not use any tools or sharp objects to lift the release levers on the microprocessor socket. Doing so might result in permanent damage to the system board.
  4. Open the microprocessor socket release lever and retainer.

    Graphic illustrating opening the microprocessor socket
    1. Open the release lever on the microprocessor socket.
    2. Open the microprocessor retainer on the microprocessor socket.
    Attention
    Do not touch the connectors on the microprocessor and the microprocessor socket.
  5. Remove the microprocessor from the socket:
    Note
    If you are replacing a microprocessor, use the empty installation tool that comes with the CRU kit to remove the microprocessor.
    1. Twist the handle on the microprocessor tool counterclockwise so that it is in the open position.

      Graphic illustrating installation tool
    2. Align the installation tool with the screws on the microprocessor socket, and lower the tool on the microprocessor. The installation tool rests flush on the socket only if it is aligned correctly.

      Graphic illustrating installation tool
    3. Twist the handle on the installation tool clockwise and lift the microprocessor out of the socket.

      Graphic illustrating installation tool
If you are instructed to return a microprocessor and heat sink, follow all packaging instructions, and use any packaging materials for shipping that are supplied to you.