The first part of the motherboard setup involves the hardware configuration, where all the necessary on-board jumpers or switches are set. The exact procedure is inherent on the specific motherboard design, and the board's user manual will have all of the necessary information. Most motherboards will have a “CPU Default” setting that will suffice for standard operation. For initial testing, the CPU should always be left at its default speed, as overclocking simply introduces too many intangibles to the procedure. If you plan on overclocking the system, make note of any jumper settings needed to force a CPU to the 100 or 133 MHz FSB.

To install a socketed processor in either a motherboard or a Slocket adapter, first raise the socket's retention arm into the open position. Then line up the pins on the processor to the layout on the socket and insert the CPU. The processor should slide in easily, but if not, confirm the CPU pin alignment is correct and that the retention arm is totally raised. Also check if there is a bent pin on the CPU itself. After the CPU has been properly inserted, lower the retention arm to the locked position.

Next is the heatsink/fan cooler installation. Retail processors usually ship with thermal paste pre-applied, but those using OEM models or after-market coolers, will need to apply a small dab of thermal compound to the chip itself. Only apply the compound to the raised portion of the chip and not to the circuit board surrounding it. Remember that you are trying to provide a very thin link between the CPU and the cooler, and adding too much thermal compound can create the “Oreo cookie” effect, which can actually hamper cooling.

If motherboard space is tight, it may also be a good idea to attach the fan header before clipping the unit to the CPU. To install the heatsink, first line it up to the socket and CPU and make sure the orientation is correct. With most heatsinks, there is only one way to install the unit and still have it flush to the processor. Then attach the secondary clip to the socket base, while keeping the heatsink from touching the CPU and thermal compound. With the first clip still attached, line the heatsink up exactly and press it down on the CPU. After the heatsink is properly aligned, attach the primary clip to the socket as well.

When installing an AMD Duron or Thunderbird processor, special care should be taken to purchase a heatsink specifically designed for the Socket A format, as well as installing it very carefully. If the heatsink refuses to go on, or you encounter resistance along the way, stop what you are doing and examine the situation before progressing. For both AMD and Intel processors check to see that the heatsink is sitting flush to the CPU and that it is not sitting on an angle, perhaps wedged onto the socket base itself.