The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer is the chip that performs most of the calculations in the computer’s operating system and applications. The CPU has a special mount on the motherboard called a CPU socket. This bracket only fits on one CPU; no other computer chip will fit in it. In addition to holding the processor, it has a latch to hold it in place and a special design to secure the heat sink that will be on top of the processor.
A computer motherboard.
A CPU socket can be found on most standard desktops and many server systems. Laptops and some types of server systems may use a different style of processor. The socket itself is usually a solid colored plastic square with a hole in the middle, like a donut, and a lever on one side. This plastic is usually cream or burgundy in color, but the color is a choice of the manufacturer, not a specification. The plastic has hundreds of holes in lines that completely cover the surface.
A dual core CPU mounted on a motherboard.
Each CPU socket is designed for a specific group of CPUs. A socket can be assigned a specific CPU rating or group from a single manufacturer. The exact details of which sockets occupy which CPUs vary depending on the age and manufacturer of the socket and motherboard. Most plugs have a three to five digit number printed on the side of the plug. This number allows users to see the exact model and determine what types of processors the CPU should contain.
A Central Processing Unit (CPU).
A CPU socket is used in a very specific way. The user’s wrist should lift the lever on the side of the plug; The processor chip is then placed in the socket so that the pins on the chip fall into the holes in the socket. Most chips only fit into a socket one way, while others have an alignment feature. This ensures that users do not enter the CPU incorrectly. The lever then returns to its original position. This levering action will lock the chip in place, preventing it from moving and ensuring a good electrical connection.
After inserting the processor, the CPU socket will still have room to contain the heat sink. Because processors generate a lot of heat, they have a specialized heat sink and cooling system that sit on top of them. The heat sinks have a bracket on both sides. The heat sink sits on top of the processor and both sides of the bracket hook into the CPU socket. The clamp on the side of the bracket is pushed down, usually with a specialized tool or flat-head screwdriver, until the heat sink snaps into place. At this point, most of the CPU sockets are completely covered by components.
One function of a CPU socket is to protect the heat sink.
