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Dell™Optiplex™960MiniTower/Desktop/SmallFormFactorServiceManual
Processor
Processor

Removing the Heatsink Assembly

The heatsink assembly is comprised of the heatsink and the fan and shroud assembly.
1. Perform the procedure Before Working on Your Computer.
2. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board (see System Board Components).
3. If cables are routed through the cable guides on the back of the fan shroud, remove them from the guides.
4. Loosen the four captive screws, one on each corner of the heatsink assembly.
5. Lift the heatsink assembly upward to remove it from the computer. Lay the heatsink down on its side to avoid contaminating the thermal solution.

Replacing the Heatsink Assembly

1. Lower the heatsink assembly into the computer, aligning the captive screws with the retainers screw holes in the system board. Ensure that the fan
cable is routed to the right side of the heatsink assembly.
2. Tighten the four captive screws to secure the heatsink assembly.
3. Plug the fan cable into its connector on the system board (see System Board Components).
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best
practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your
computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
CAUTION: The heatsink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
1
heatsink assembly
2
captive screw housing (4)