The CPU is one of the major components of the computer.
When understanding the PC components, sometimes it seems perplexing cause there are lots of hardware pieces.
However, lets talk about the processor.
Primarily, the CPU is located on the motherboard and attached to the processors Socket.
The processor is one of the important and largest chips on the motherboard.
Also, there are just a couple of types of processor locations.
And I will discuss those in the article.
So lets read some more to figure it out properly.
Where is The CPU Placed in a Computer?
A CPU is one of the most potent computer chips.
The CPU or processor is located on top of the motherboard in your PC.
It sits on the processor socket with the pins facing down.
The sockets lever keeps the CPU secure.
The biggest component or board also called the motherboard holds all the PC components together.
And it has a dedicated placement to hold the processor.
There are different types of motherboards like ATX, MicroATX, and Mini-ITX.
For your convenience, I provide an image with different types of the main board.
You may notice, on the ATX motherboard at the top middle section there is a particular position.
The board may vary, but the position is almost the same, most of the time.
As you see in the MicroATX and Mini-ITX the CPU position is almost dead center.
As these boards are significantly smaller and have fewer features than full-size ATX boards.
Still, the position of the CPU is almost the same for all different size boards.
Then, you will find the main board attached to your PC case.
The processor is the main crucial piece inside the machine.
It executes all the tasks that you through to your machine.
I hope you understand where the CPU locates on a desktop.
you could even locate yours if you like.
So lets see where the processor locates in the laptop.
Where is The CPU located On a Laptop?
Finding the CPU location on a laptop is more difficult than on a desktop.
First, you have to pop swing open the backplate of the laptop.
There are numerous complex issues to consider when finding the placement of the processor on a laptop.
However, most desktop processors have the same square shape, whereas laptop CPUs can have rectangular shapes.
Additionally, the cooling system could not be the same as the desktop system.
The cooling system or fan is always connected to the processor in desktop situations.
Even so, if you find the cooling fan, you may be able to easily locate the processor.
Furthermore, the processor for the GPU is difficult to find in a gaming laptop.
Both chips may appear identical, and heat sinks cover both chips.
You must remove the heat sinks to expose which is the main processor and which is the GPU.
These are Pin Grid Array (PGA) and Land Grid Array (LGA).
And LGA has pins located on the socket and the processor sits on it.
Such as an Intel Core i5-3470 3.20 GHz Processor requires an LGA1155 socket.
And Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series processors require an AM4 socket.
So if you wish to get a CPU then ensure it iscompatible with the motherboard socket.
You may hear about a workstation or server PC.
Those are some heavy-duty machines that use for particular intensive workloads.
These processors are massive and require specialized motherboards and sockets.
it’s possible for you to see yourself in the following image.This motherboard has two slots for the processor.
That means you’re able to run two different systems with a single motherboard.
So, you realize there are some different placements for some exceptional processors.
Why Should You Care About CPU Location?
In todays world, a computer is not a luxury; it is a necessity.
So, why shouldnt you be concerned about the central processor location?
Furthermore, you dont have to be a nerd to be aware of some processor facts.
And believe me, there are times when this knowledge will provide a thrilling adventure while also saving money.
Lets discuss some reasons or situations where the awareness of processor location will help enormously.
And your setup becomes slow or even stops working.
It could happen due toprocessor overheatingor for other particular reasons.
And CPU overheating is a very common trouble that many users face.
if you run into any CPU issue, you must thoroughly inspect it.
The inspection will be fairly simple, if you know where the processor is located.
As a result, they may appear to be about the same size, which causes misunderstanding.
There are a couple of simple ways you’re free to identify the processor and motherboard chipset.
The motherboard chipset doesnt have a cooling fan.
And normally it locates in the bottom half of the board.
Also, most of the time, the board company name was stamped or written over the chipset.
In both of these situations, expertise of CPU location can help you.
And installing the central processor is a great experience for every pc user.
Here is a little brief about how to drop in the CPU on the main board.
After identifying the socket on the main board, you will find a lever.
Then find the mark in the processor.
It will be a little triangle mark both on the CPU and motherboards socket.
Line up the marks and gently put the processor on the socket.
Dont push or press the CPU.
Just do this portion as mildly as possible.
For more detailed step-by-step instructions, check out our completeCPU installation guide.
These are just some examples.
There are also many situations where CPU location awareness can help you.
Also, for cleaning the system and many more.
Thats why its better to know about the processors location.
FAQs
Where does the CPU go on a motherboard?
Your CPU must be inserted into the correct socket on the motherboard.
Fortunately, there are almost always indicators on the processor and socket to aid in proper alignment.
Look for a matching indicator on the CPU and socket corner.
It will most likely take the shape of a small triangle.
How is the CPU connected to the motherboard?
A Computers processor connects a CPUs processor to the PCs motherboard via a series of pins.
When a CPU is attached via a processor socket, it isnt soldered and thus replaceable.
Processor sockets are much more common on desktop gaming PCs than on laptops.
What are CPU sockets and cores?
A socket is the physical punch in of connection in which the processor capsules are installed.
A standard PC has only one socket.
The number of processor cores per CPU compartment is referred to as cores.
A typical modern standard processor for a regular Computer has two or four cores.
Furthermore, some CPUs can support more than one parallel thread per processor chip.
How does a CPU connect to a computer?
The CPU is your computers brain: its where all of your software and computing takes place.
Final Thoughts
I went into great detail about where to find the CPU in a computer.
Furthermore, processor sockets always have a lever that allows the CPU to be locked.
Also, with that, you’re free to recognize the CPU location.
Also, if possible, learn more about the CPU, like specifications.
Not to brag, but for your own benefit.
