The central processing unit, or CPU, connects to your computer through a socket on the motherboard. Pins on the LGA775 socket occasionally bend if you've installed or removed the CPU incorrectly. The main problem with having bent pins involves connectivity. Unless every pin makes full contact, the CPU will not work, which means the computer won't work either. It's possible to straighten the pins yourself. The procedure requires a few basic tools, manual dexterity and patience.
Instructions
Accessing the LGA775 socket
1. Power down your computer and unplug all cables and devices. Open the computer tower. This usually involves removing a set of thumbscrews and opening up the side access panel.
2. Put on an anti-static strap to prevent accidental static discharge that could damage your computer hardware. Locate the CPU cooling fan near the center of the motherboard. Disconnect the fan's power cable from the motherboard, unscrew any retaining screws holding the fan in place with a Phillips screwdriver and remove the fan from the computer to expose the CPU below.
3. Turn the CPU's flat-head locking screw counterclockwise. Lift the CPU out of the motherboard to reveal the LGA775 socket pins.
Fixing the Socket Pins
4. Straighten a paper clip with your fingers.
5. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend one end of the paper clip into a loop small enough to fit around each pin on the socket.
6. Place a small pocketknife or similar tool next to one of the bent pins. Apply gentle pressure to bend the pin back up into its correct position. Be very careful that you don't apply too much force and break off the pin; you will have to replace the motherboard if this happens. For hard-to-fix pins, place the paper clip tool you made over the pin and use the loop to pull the pin straight up into its correct position.
7. Reassemble the computer tower and reconnect the power cable and peripherals.
Tags: LGA775 socket, paper clip, your computer, bent pins, computer tower, correct position