CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)HardwareMedium
A technician is installing a new CPU on a motherboard that uses a Land Grid Array (LGA) socket. What is the MOST critical step to ensure proper installation and prevent damage?
- AAligning the CPU's triangular marker with the socket's corresponding mark.
- BEnsuring the CPU fan is securely attached to the heatsink.
- CApplying thermal paste before placing the CPU.
- DSnapping the CPU into place with firm, even pressure.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Aligning the CPU's triangular marker with the socket's corresponding mark.
For LGA sockets, where the pins are on the motherboard, proper alignment of the CPU with the socket's keying (often marked by a triangle or notch) is paramount. Incorrect alignment can lead to bent pins on the motherboard socket when the retention arm is closed, causing irreparable damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Securing the fan to the heatsink is important for cooling, but it happens after the CPU is seated and the heatsink is mounted, not during the initial CPU placement.
- C. Thermal paste is applied after the CPU is seated, just before the heatsink, not before placing the CPU in the socket.
- D. LGA CPUs should 'drop in' without significant force; snapping it into place with firm pressure is incorrect and risks bending the socket pins.
LGA CPU Installation
The process of seating a Land Grid Array (LGA) CPU into its motherboard socket, characterized by pins on the socket rather than the CPU.
- Requires careful alignment of CPU notches/markers with the socket.
- CPU should drop in with minimal force.
- Closing the retention arm locks the CPU into place.
Memory trick: Carefully Connect CPU Coolly.