Mac Pro (Early 2008) Take Apart — Processors, 3.2 GHz 92
Processors, 3.2 GHz
The Mac Pro (Early 2008 Dual 3.2 GHz) computer uses a special coating on the processor heatsink
and processor to manage the temperature in the computer. The silver-colored coating comes
applied to the underside of the heatsink and the top of the processor.
Use the following guidelines when handling the processor heatsink and/or processor:
• Wear disposable nitrile or latex gloves.
Avoid touching the silver-colored coating on the underside of the heatsink and the top of •
the processor.
Always make a visual inspection of new or existing heatsinks and processors before •
installing them in the computer. See “Processor Heatsink and Processor Visual Inspection
Instructions” in the Troubleshooting chapter for more information.
When removing or replacing the heatsink and/or processor, do not allow the heatsink to be •
separated from the processor for more than 30 minutes. The special coating on the heatsink
and processor degrades with exposure to air; more than 30 minutes exposure could result in
damage to the computer and a repeat, multi-part repair.
Tools
No tools are required for this procedure. However, you may nd a at-blade screwdriver helpful in
releasing the processor holder latch.
Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, open the computer, lay it on its side with the access side facing up, and remove
the following:
Hard drives and hard drive carriers in drive bays 1 and • 2
PCI Express card installed in slot • 1
Any 12-inch PCI Express card• s
Processor heatsink cove• r
Front fan assembl• y
Top and bottom memory card• s
Memory cage with rear fan•
Processor heatsinks for 3.0 GHz Processors•
IMPORTANT:
If you need to install
a new heatsink or
processor, reassemble
the unit while you are
waiting for the new
part to arrive.