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Motherboard and CPU Delidding Repair

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

Introduction

Use this guide to prepare for a CPU delid on supported desktop processors. Delidding removes the CPU heat spreader and carries a high risk of permanent CPU damage, motherboard damage, and voided warranty coverage. This guide only includes the safe, supported details available for Kaby Lake, Skylake, Haswell, and Ivy Bridge CPUs.

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Shut down the computer and unplug the power cable before handling the CPU or motherboard.

    • Press the power button once after unplugging the computer to help discharge leftover power.

    • Wear an ESD wrist strap or touch grounded metal before handling the CPU.

    • Static electricity can damage the CPU or motherboard even if you don't feel a shock.

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  2. Edit

    • Confirm the CPU family before attempting a delid.

    • This technique is intended for Kaby Lake, Skylake, Haswell, and Ivy Bridge CPUs.

    • Don't use this method on a CPU family that isn't supported by the delid tool.

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  3. Edit

    • Use a dedicated CPU delid tool that supports the CPU family being serviced.

    • Don't pry the heat spreader with a knife, razor blade, screwdriver, or other loose object.

    • Sharp or improvised tools can cut you, crack the CPU substrate, or damage tiny surface components.

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  4. Edit

    • Follow the delid tool manufacturer's instructions for positioning the CPU and applying force.

    • Stop immediately if the CPU shifts, cracks, or resists in an unexpected way.

    • Don't heat, pry, twist, or force the heat spreader unless the CPU-specific delid tool instructions require it.

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  5. Edit

    • Inspect the CPU package and heat spreader before reinstalling the CPU in the motherboard.

    • Don't install the CPU if the substrate is cracked, pins or pads are damaged, or small components are missing.

    • Keep thermal material and debris away from the motherboard socket.

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Conclusion

Handle the CPU only by its edges, and verify the delid tool supports the exact CPU family before applying force. Repair didn't go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers community for help.

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Dighe

Member since: 11/17/15

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