Attach cpu to mobo before or after putting mobo in case?

[tnf]

I've always done it after putting the mobo in the case. read one article today saying to do it before. Seemed a bit odd, but wanted to double check. Board should go in first to keep things sturdy and stationary when attaching the processor and fan, no?

[nay0k]

Doesn't really matter...I don't personally. For me the CPU and it's fan go in the mobo first, then memory, then I stick it in the case and do whatever else needs to be done.

[obsidian]

I usually put the CPU and heatsink on first. Easier that way so I minimize time spent working inside the case where things might be a bit more cramped.

[creep]

It's best to do as much of it as possible after mounting the board in the case.

Usually no worries putting the processor in first, but for most HS attachment designs, they put a lot of strain on the pcb of the motherboard. If it's not secured in place, it's a lot easier to break. Keep in mind these boards are many layers thick, with tiny conductive lines running on each layer, cracking just one can lead to a flaky or dead system.

[obsidian]

I'm pretty sure motherboard PCB's are just two sided (printed on front and back), without any conductive lines in between.

But I agree that with some HSF assemblies, it could cause problems.

[shadd_]

if it's the stock heatsink for an intel i may have to agree with creep. but if it's not the push pin type you can put in on before.

[AmIdYfReAk]

i put the proc on, then the HSF, then mount the mobo in the case... Ram/Gpu/etc there after.

[Foo]

I'm pretty sure motherboard PCB's are just two sided (printed on front and back), without any conductive lines in between.

Naw, most motherboards use 6-layer PCBs

[Captain]

I put the processor on and then screw the mobo in. Every HSF I've worked with so far has been a push-pin style, so it's impossible to install it if the motherboard isn't mounted on the brackets properly.

[AmIdYfReAk]

[^misantropia^]

An anecdote:

I once tried to assemble a PC from spare parts while very drunk. Last, but certainly not least, I put the CPU (an Athlon XP 2300) in its socket and flipped the switch, only to be greeted by this tiny yet fragrant curl of smoke.

After some agitated trial & error, followed by rather more agitated cursing, I took the devilish machine to the shop. The guy behind the counter looked at me with something of awe. I had somehow managed to put the CPU ass backwards in its socket, a deed that twisted each and every pin on the poor thing.

Still drunk, I started arguing about how the damn thing was a factory DOA. I didn't get a refund but I did get 20% off on the replacement. =)

[Captain]

What do you want?