However, it can receive damages for several reasons.
Can your Damaged CPU Still Work?
A fully damaged CPU cannot go through the boot-up process.
When the processor fails to boot up the machine, you may need to replace the CPU.
A CPU can receive several types of damage in various circumstances.
And works even after the damages in case the damage is minor.
Consider the following discussion about various types of damages and their impact on the overall computer performance.
Here is the list of damages and their impact on performance:
1.
For instance, theRyzen 7 2700Xhas aMax Boost frequency of 4.3 GHz.
Instead, it will only utilize thebase clock speed of 3.7 GHzor even lower than that.
The clock speed is the number of cycles your CPU executes per second.
A reduced clock speed will impact the processors performance and may lead to numerous problems.
Damaged Pins or Pads
Modern processors are highlyadvanced system-on-chip (SoCs), containing just more than CPU cores.
Some of them include integrated GPU, PCIe, and memory controllers on the chip.
However, the CPU pins are mainly used for power or data transmission.
Besides, some pins are used forground (VSS).
Power Damages
Another culprit for damaging a CPU is power damage.
Therefore, you should monitor the power usage of your CPU and lower it if required.
While finding the optimal voltage for a CPU, start with ahigher voltageand reduce it accordingly.
During that time, closelycheck the CPU usageand alsocheck the CPU throttlingto find the optimal voltage.
Damaged IMC (Integrated Memory Controller)
An integrated memory controller is an integrated chip in the processor.
When the IMC controller of your CPU is damaged, it may hamper the overall performance of your machine.
Therefore, your system will only work with a significant performance drop.
What are the Symptoms of a Damaged CPU?
Besides, your setup can run fans at higher RPM if the CPU is damaged.
Sometimes, the computer can show assorted error codes like0x00000because of a damaged processor.
Go through the subsequent discussion to understand the damaged CPU indicator.
However, a damaged CPU cannot pass this test, leading to boot issues.
Moreover, the system will show a blank screen.
You might hear the fan sounds or even see themotherboard LEDs light up.
No matter how much you press the keys or power button, your system will not boot.
Repeated Shutdowns
Processors generate a ton of heat while executing even simpler instructions.
To manage this excessive heat, processors need aCPU cooler with optimized airflow.
Ensure to check frequently if the CPU is overheating.
Overheating can damage the CPU and lead to numerous problems, including frequent shutdowns.
Beep Alerts
As I discussed earlier, your system goes through a POST process during the startup.
It ensures all computer components are functioning correctly.
Depending on the manufacturer, every motherboard has different beep codes.
Hearing the number of beeps, it’s possible for you to quickly identify the reason behind the problem.
Usually, you will hear57 beepsif the problem is related to the CPU.
Physical Damages
Identifying the physical damage to a CPU is much easier.
You just need to detach the CPU from the motherboard and examine for any sign of physical damage.
you might use a magnifying glass to check your CPU more efficiently.
If the socket bang out is PGA, you will find the pins on the CPU.
Similarly, you will find the pins on the motherboard if the CPU socket is LGA.
Check out a separate post onLGA Vs. PGA.
Computer Freezes
Another common symptom of a damaged CPU is often freezing and lagging.
A faulty CPU can also cause stuttering.
You may lag during the system boot-up if the CPU fails to perform correctly.
In some cases, the computer becomes completely unresponsive.
You may need to restart the computer to use it again.
Though, it is hard to determine which components are faulty and leading to this annoying issue.
However, you will get an error code with the BSOD to help identify the main culprit.
For example,error codes 0x00000 refers to CPU-related issues.
Other components like RAM or Motherboard can also lead to the Blue Screen of Death problem.
Fortunately, you’re able to quicklyfix the blue screenissue.
Can a Damaged CPU Be Fixed?
A CPU with minor damages like bent or broken pins and damaged CPU pads can be easily fixed.
Besides, if the CPU is partially damaged from overheating, reapplying the thermal paste can fix the CPU.
However, sometimes it is easier to replace the CPU if it receives a lot of damage.
Closely inspect the CPU after detaching it from the motherboard.
you’re free to use several household items to fix bent bins on the CPU or motherboard.
Go through the subsequent discussion to repair your slightly damaged CPU quickly.
Place the CPU on a hard surface, and if possible, attach it to something.
Insert the card between two rows and start to straighten the bent pins.
Look from the edge of the pins to ensure the pins arealigned perfectly.
Repeat the process until every pin is fixed.
Contrarily, broken pins seem impossible to fix.
If the thermal paste fails to perform its functions, it can damage the entire CPU.
After wiping off the old paste, apply fresh thermal paste.
you might also clean the CPU using rubbing alcohol.
Now, mount your CPU cooler and assemble the entire system.
Your system should now handle the heat more efficiently, and hopefully, it will fix the CPU.
Sometimes, the shoulder dots on the CPU pad come off for several reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my CPU is damaged?
A damaged CPU wont pass the boot-up process and often fails to pass the POST process.
Moreover, you may encounter BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) because of a damaged CPU.
Will a computer boot with a dead CPU?
No, a dead CPU will not boot to the OS (Operating System).
However, some CPUs may boot to the BIOS, depending on the motherboard model.
What causes CPU damage?
A lousy capacitor, overvoltages, overheating, and usage for an extended period can seriously damage a CPU.
Wrap Up
Depending on the damage, your damaged CPU may work in different circumstances.
If the CPU is badly damaged from deep, it is unrecoverable.
Does your damaged CPU still work?
Let me know by leaving a comment below.