I took off the CPU heat sink to blow out the dust. Now I can't get it back on. I've tried everything I read from Google: I pull up the black pins so they're inside the white part before putting the heat sink in place, and then push firmly down. Usually, 2 of the 4 pins don't make a clicking noise. Is it possible the pins are broken? I need this computer for work so would buying a new heat sink solve the problem? Here are some pictures. Normally I apply the thermal paste to the CPU but when I moved the heat sink around it got messy and I cleaned it all off, but I'll reapply it before replacing the heat sink.
UPDATE: it must be something else.
- all 4 pins clicked in
- the thermal paste on the CPU had been
smeared around so the heat sink had made contact
I know the heat sink isn't sitting on properly because when I turn on the computer I get a CPU overheat error (and have to turn off). Is there anything else I can try or should know before buying a new heat sink? The fan works fine so it's only a problem with the connectors.
Best Answer
make sure they are pointed out when installing. pop each pin in a diagonal fashion to ensure that one side isn't completely seated before the other. if you cannot get it with the board installed in the case. pull the board and then try on a plastic surface, preferably using the esd bag the board came in underneath to prevent static discharge.
once you hear the pins pop into place you can check that they are indeed popped in by flipping the board over you should see the white plastic pins spread out with the black plastic pin popped through the hole pushing them apart. if that seems unclear I found this video that will help you visually.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcQgZX-4W0o