To install a CPU, first raise the lever on the socket. Simply pull the lever out a little bit, then lift up. You should see the socket move up.

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Now you're ready to put in the processor. The CPU pins have to be aligned with the socket holes. Look very carefully at the pin holes on the socket to see the arrangement. Turn the processor over and orient the pins to match the socket.

*NOTE: Keep in mind CPUs and sockets vary. Modern Intel processors don't have pins. I'm using an AMD CPU.

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Next, turn the processor back over and place it in the socket. It should basically fall in by itself. To secure it, pull the lever down until it locks in place.

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Installing the CPU Fan and Heatsink:
Processors get hot and require a fan or some other kind of cooling. They come in a variety of types and install by different means. Some are easy. Others may take a little work. Always check the documentation. The one in this tutorial is your basic fan.

If the fan and heatsink are not attached together, go ahead and attach them now.

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Apply a small amount of thermal grease on the processor or underneath the heat sink.

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Place the fan/heatsink on top of the CPU. Make sure the fan's connector is next to the motherboard fan connector.

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On one side of the heatsink, maneuver the heat sink arm until the notches on the socket lock through the holes. If done correctly, they'll click into place. This may take a little tinkering.

Next, on the other side, take a pencil or other object and push down on the heatsink arm until the notches lock through the holes. Again, you should hear it click into place.

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Now that it is secured, connect the fan to the motherboard.

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