How do you install an athlon 64 X2?
Firstly, make sure the PC is unplugged and discharged (just rub the drive bay metal a few times to ensure there is no static in you or the PC).Carefully unclip the cooler fan and lift it straight up. If it resists, then it is only the thermal compound between the base of the cooling fan and the top of the CPU. Pull it straight upwards, you will not damage anything as long as you don't twist or bend the cooling unit.Clean off the thermal compound from the CPU and cooling unit with a dry, soft cloth. Don't use any solvents.Dislodge the CPU locking arm before you pull out the CPU. Forcing the CPU out may break the pins, you will destroy the CPU and it is a pain to remove the pins from the board.Place the new Athlon 64 X2 into the CPU slot. It simply drops in only one way, there is no need to press it in and no "click" sound indicating that it is in place. You will know it is in place if you use your finger on top of the CPU and try to push it sideways in all directions. If the CPU does not drop in place any way you try, then your motherboard does not support the CPU.Carefully replace the locking arm and gently attempt to lift the CPU, ensuring that it is held in place.Put a drop of thermal compound about 1cm wide in the middle of the CPU, but don't spread it around.Fit the cooler unit straight down on top of the CPU pressing the thermal compound evenly until the unit is aligned well enough at its original position or 180 degrees, as long as the fan cable can reach the board pins.Carefully clip on the cooler unit and plug your PC in.Before loading directly into the OS, briefly enter the BIOS and confirm that the Athlon 64 X2 is installed.