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To identify a CPU, use software utilities or hardware inventory programs. Windows® users can access the system panel through the control panel or hotkeys. It’s important to identify a CPU for replacement or when buying a new computer. To remove a CPU, detach the heat sink. Computer repair shops can also help identify a CPU for free.
A computer processing unit (CPU) is the main processing chip in a computer. It is usually found on the motherboard, the computer’s main processing board. Identifying your CPU can be done by installing and accessing software utilities that provide information about your computer hardware. A CPU that cannot be identified by software will often have identification markings on the processing chip itself that generally reveal manufacturer and model information.
For a Windows® user, the easiest way to identify a CPU in your computer is to access the system portion of the control panel, which displays information about the CPU installed in that system. You can access the Control Panel through the Windows® Start menu or by using hotkeys. To access the system panel quickly, press the “Windows®” button at the same time as the “pause” or “stop” button. The “Windows®” button is usually located between the ctrl and alt buttons to the left of the space bar and is marked with the Windows® logo. Pressing Windows® and pausing will open the system panel.
Hardware inventory programs can also help you identify a CPU if your operating system information is incomplete or incorrect. Types of programs designed to identify hardware in a computer include SIW, Everest®, and CPU-Z®. These programs will give you more detailed information about the identity and specifics of your computer hardware, including the CPU. Identifying characteristics of a CPU include the manufacturer, processor group or family, model name, and speed.
It becomes important to identify a CPU when the chip needs to be replaced. Knowing how to identify a CPU can help you purchase the right replacement CPU chip for your motherboard. It is also useful when buying new computers, as the value of a computer depends a lot on the type of CPU processing chip installed in the new computer.
To remove the CPU from the motherboard, shut down and unplug the computer. Then, detach the heat sink by activating the heat sink clip and removing the heat sink assembly from the heat sink bracket. The heat sink is the cooling unit of the CPU and is attached directly to the CPU. Once the heat sink is removed, operate the small lever on the heat sink deck to release the heat sink.
As a last resort, many computer repair shops or computer hardware store employees can help you identify a CPU for free. If you’d rather not remove any computer hardware, find a computer repair or hardware store that will help you identify a CPU if you bring your computer to them. Make sure the store helps you for free. Some shops may charge a diagnostic fee to help you identify a CPU.
