To install an Intel Pentium 4 fan: Make sure the 2 levers on the top of the heat sink are in their default unlocked position. Lower the heat sink gently into the frame so that the metal sits evenly on all sides. Push down on the plastic top of the heat sink until the hooks on each side lock into the frame on the motherboard. This will require some force.

Holding one side of the heat sink securely, pull the lever on the other side over until it locks. Again, this will require some force. Repeat the procedure for the other lever. Consult your motherboard manual for the locations of the three-pin fan headers. There should be one close to the CPU socket. Plug the fan power cord into the header.

To install an AMD Athlon XP fan: Line the heat sink up so the depressed area at the base of the heat sink matches the raised section of the CPU socket. Attach the heat sink to the clip at the other end of the socket first, then apply smooth, even force straight down to attach the remaining clip.

This will require a good deal of force, so ensure that you do not twist the heat sink while you are doing this. Consult your motherboard manual for the locations of the three-pin fan headers. There should be one close to the CPU socket. Plug the fan power cord into the header.

Now install the RAM chip(s). Use the guidelines earlier in this article.

Ensure that the motherboard mounting area in the case is free of obstructions and that all necessary risers have been installed. Lower the board into the case. Screw the motherboard into the risers. Note that some forms of risers will not require screws to be used. You can figure it out.

Once the board has been securely attached, plug in the main power connector, all PCI expansion power cards, floppy and IDE cables, and the case connectors. Double-check everything. Now power up and watch the POST screen anxiously. If all goes well, reinstall your OS and enjoy the speed boost.

An article on upgrading computers can involve covering a vast amount of information. We have done our best to limit this to certain specific steps while ensuring that a beginner will certainly take something out of the whole procedure. Feel free to email us with any additional questions you may have involving this article, or try the forums.