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Installing a microprocessor and heat sink

Use this information to install a microprocessor and heat sink.

Note
This procedure should be performed only by trained service technicians.
Before you install a microprocessor and heat sink, complete the following steps:
  1. Read Safety and Installation guidelines.
  2. If the 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 you.
The following notes describe the type of microprocessor that the compute node supports and other information that you must consider when you install a microprocessor:
  • This component can be installed as an optional device or as a CRU. The installation procedure is the same for the optional device and the CRU.
  • The optional microprocessors are limited by the capacity and capability of the compute node. Any microprocessors that you install must have the same specifications as the microprocessors that came with the compute node.
  • 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.
  • If you are installing a second microprocessor, make sure that the microprocessors are identical.
  • Before you install a new microprocessor, download and install the most current level of UEFI code (see Updating firmware and device drivers).
  • When you install a second microprocessor, you might have to install additional memory or redistribute memory across the DIMM connectors. See Installing a DIMM.
  • 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 microprocessor 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 7162 and 2588).
    • Alcohol wipes
    • Thermal grease
Attention
  1. Do not use any tools or sharp objects to lift the locking levers on the microprocessor socket. Doing so might result in permanent damage to the system board.
  2. Do not touch the contacts in the microprocessor socket. Touching these contacts might result in permanent damage to the system board.
Attention
  • Remove and install only one microprocessor at a time. When removing or installing a microprocessor, protect the other microprocessor socket with a microprocessor heat sink filler.
  • Always use the microprocessor installation tool to remove or install a microprocessor. Failure to use the microprocessor installation tool can damage the microprocessor sockets on the system board. Any damage to the microprocessor sockets might require replacing the system board.
  • Different microprocessor types might require a different type of heat sink. To maintain adequate cooling, make sure that you install the heat sink type specified for your microprocessor.
Note
Be sure to use the installation tool that comes with your microprocessor. The installation tool has two settings for installing two different sizes of microprocessors. The settings that are marked on the tool are L for smaller low core microprocessors, and H for larger high core microprocessors. The tool automatically adjusts during use to the correct setting for your microprocessor.

Microprocessor Installation Tool

To install a microprocessor and heat sink, complete the following steps.
Graphic illustrating the removal of a microprocessor and heat sink

  1. Remove the cover (see Removing the compute node cover).
  2. If you are not installing a new microprocessor and a new heat sink, remove the thermal grease from the heat sink and microprocessor; then, apply new thermal grease before installation (see Thermal grease).
  3. Remove the heat-sink filler, if one is present.
  4. Open the microprocessor socket release levers and retainer.

    Graphic illustrating the microprocessor and heat sink
    1. Identify which release lever is labeled as the first release lever to open and open it.
    2. Open the second release lever on the microprocessor socket.
    3. Open the microprocessor retainer.
  5. Install the microprocessor in the microprocessor socket.
    1. Open the packaging that contains the new microprocessor installation tool assembly and carefully remove the installation tool assembly from the package.
      Note
      Do not touch the microprocessor contacts. Contaminants on the microprocessor contacts, such as oil from your skin, can cause connection failures between the contacts and the socket.
    2. Remove the microprocessor protective cover if one is present.


    3. Align the installation tool with the microprocessor socket. The installation tool rests flush on the socket only if it is properly aligned.

      Graphic illustrating installation tool
    4. Install the microprocessor using the installation tool. Twist the handle of the installation tool assembly counterclockwise until the microprocessor is inserted into the socket, and lift the installation tool out of the socket. The following illustration shows the tool handle in the open position.

      Installation tool in the open position
      Attention
      • Do not press the microprocessor into the socket.
      • Make sure that the microprocessor is aligned correctly in the socket before you try to close the microprocessor retainer.
      • Do not touch the thermal grease on the bottom of the heat sink or on top of the microprocessor. Touching the thermal grease will contaminate it.
  6. Close the microprocessor socket release retainer and levers.

    Graphic illustrating the microprocessor and heat sink
    1. If a socket dust cover is installed over the microprocessor retainer, remove the dust cover from the compute node and store it in a safe place.
    2. Close the microprocessor retainer on the microprocessor socket.
    3. Identify which release lever is labeled as the first release lever to close, and close it.
    4. Close the second release lever on the microprocessor socket.
      Attention
      • If you are installing a new heat sink, do not set down the heat sink after you remove the plastic cover.
      • Do not touch the thermal material on the bottom of the heat sink. Touching the thermal material will contaminate it.
  7. If you are installing a new heat sink, remove the plastic protective cover from the bottom of the heat sink. If you are reinstalling a heat sink that you previously removed from the compute node, make sure that the thermal material is still on the bottom of the heat sink and on the top of the microprocessor.
    1. Position the heat sink over the microprocessor. The heat sink is keyed to assist with proper alignment.
    2. Align and place the heat sink on top of the microprocessor in the retention bracket, thermal material side down.
    3. Press firmly on the heat sink.
    4. Align the screws on the heat sink with the holes on the heat-sink retention module.
    5. Press firmly on the captive screws and tighten them with a screwdriver, alternating among the screws until they are tight. If possible, each screw should be rotated two full rotations at a time. Repeat until the screws are tight. Do not overtighten the screws by using excessive force. If you are using a torque wrench, tighten the screws to 8 inch-pounds (in-lb) to 10 in-lb (0.9 Newton-meters (Nm) to 1.13 Nm). Refer to the label on the heat sink for more information.
After you install a microprocessor and heat sink, complete the following steps:
  1. Install the cover (see Installing the compute node cover).
  2. Install the compute node in a Flex System chassis (see Installing a compute node in a chassis for instructions).