-The CPU is a strange thing at times. There is always a chance of you buying a lemon. One thing about the CPU is if its broke you cant really fix it,you will replace it. Now should the CPU just be running hot you can simply replace the FAN and Heatsink. But when this time has passed and the CPU is already dead you must replace it. Now you are stuck with the question if you want to replace it or if you even can get the part? This in some instances can spawn a new system altogether.
-The neat side to this dilemma is the same processor that went bad can be replaced cheaper and faster than it was originally. Not to bad of news now is it. Well here is the sad side to it. If your motherboard doesn't support the new processor upgrade you will need a new motherboard. Yikes! Yep now its getting a little involved. If unsure if a new motherboard is in the future, check with the manufacturer of your computer for CPU upgrade information.
-Now, what are the symptoms of a dying CPU? Here is a list of classic symptoms that can also be more than just the CPU in some instances.
Your System wont boot
System Will boot but no Operating System
Unexplained crashes during startup and operation
Errors that indicate parity problems
System lock ups after just minutes of operation
-If this is your symptoms lets do this to begin with. Check power supply for lose cables and connections. Unplug power from UPS or power surge protector. Plug into wall outlet temporarily. Boot up system and see if all runs well. If not you can rule out UPS and Surge protector problems. Though you may still have a Power supply problem. This of course is not the only thing to consider. Refer to Trouble Shooting Power Supply for more information on this.
-Now if that doesn't sound right to you lets look in the case.
1. Unplug power from computer
2. Undo screws form case to release cover
3. Pull cover off gently incase there are wires that may snag.
4. With computer OFF inspect inside of case for anything out of the ordinary.
5. Make sure and touch power supply to rid yourself of static electricity.
6. Check CPU and FAN. Does heatsink look broken or missing?
7. Carefully grab the heatsink and check for any movement or to see if it seated very loosely. Is there a seal between the heatsink and fan?
8. Remove heatsink and check that CPU is in socket securely. ZIF socket arm should be in a locked position. Put Heatsink and fan back onto processor if all is well.
9. Check and see if RAM modules are in place and seated properly. If not seated simply push back in evenly.
10. If all has checked out or fixed go ahead and plug system in.
11. Power up computer and look for the CPU fan to be running. Does it seem okay? Any noises from fan or not enough air flow? If so, shutdown and replace fan and heatsink.
-Now these step may not have helped you much. If not we need to look at some more culprits that may be the cause of this. Some of these can be BIOS settings, System RAM, Power Supply, Graphics Board or Drivers, Operating System, and the last one a Virus. Let's look at a couple more things that can be the culprits.
-Check any system documentation and insure your CPU jumper and clock setting are correct on the motherboard. Unless you actually went in and changed this it is probably not a problem.
-Another thing to consider is looking at the BIOS. Boot computer and hit delete key or whatever your system specifies. Enter BIOS and compare with manufacturers default settings. If you don't know what these are simply call them. If your system is a homebuilt or custom you will need motherboard documentation.
