There is a base on my Pavilion motherboard around the processor that holds the fan (there is a latch). The base is attached with screws. I want to know if I can replace that base or do I have to buy the whole motherboard? My PC wouldn't stay on and it certainly didn't take long to see what the problem was. The latch on the fan was loose; a piece of the base that helps hold the fan in place has broken off so the latch won't work.
That's a toughie - what you're looking at is the CPU "heatsink", one of the most important components no one ever talks about. As you discovered, overheating the CPU will shut down the computer if you're lucky, otherwise it lets the "magic smoke" out of the CPU and fries it.
Each CPU has its own type of heatsink, and associated brackets. The easiest thing to do is probably buy a new heatsink, they cost from $ 5-10 and a whole lot easier than trying to find the brackets.
I just had a similar problem, and got one from newegg for $ 6 and free shipping.
What you need to know is the type of "socket" - essentially what CPU you have. Mine was a Celeron D, which is Socket 478. Newegg or others can help you figure out what you need.
The good news, and bad news is to replace the brackets, you need to take the motherboard out of the computer.
Step 1: Disconnect the power supply
Step 2: Carefully note the connectors, the pins and the colors.
Step 3: Take a deep breath, and
Step 4: Go slowly, and don't overtighten anything.
If that freaks you out, a local computer store can take care of this in a few minutes if you have the part, or they have it in stock.
Don't forget that between the CPU and the heatsink fan is the extremely important thermal paste or tape. It usually comes with the new heatsink, or costs a few dollars otherwise. You put this on the top of the CPU chip, then squish the heatsink down on it. It helps transfer the heat of the chip to the copper or aluminum base of the heatsink.
Hope that helps you, if not please post further comments. If it does, please rate my answer.
Best of Luck
airoff (Alan)
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