hi,
I have a computer which I was changing the thermal paste on, after removing the processor cooler for cleaning. Everything went fine, but when I was reassembling, the component that holds the unit tight to the motherboard snapped. I want to purchase a new 'holdy-in thingy' but don't know if I can get just that, where (UK) or even what its called to google for it.

I believe it is a socket 478, but don't know what his bit is:

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d1...dyInThingy.jpg

The bit that snapped is surely mission critical, unfortunately, and I don't want to risk superglue.

thanks in advance if you can identify/help with this,

Howard

You're right, I don't think there is a proper name for this part :P

"Retention Clip Frame" would be the best I can think of...

It seems that these specific components aren't readily available.

OK..assuming that I will have to buy a whole new cooler can anyone tell me:

1. If the retaining parts generally come with the cooler, or with the motherboard.

2. Are all socket 478 retaining components compatible? If I get another one how will I know it will fit? Is the 478 part just the dimension of the holes in the board? Other coolers I have looked up all look quite different from one another.

thanks in advance for any thoughts,
Howard.

ps if anyone else happens by this thread with a similar problem, the most useful link I have so far is this one:

http://www.intel.com/support/process.../CS-007661.htm

1] Fixing-parts come with the cooler
2] The cooler is for the socket. Check your socket type carefully: The MoBo's manual is useful, as is the manufacturer's website for the PDF if you have lost your manual.

Coolers all look different, but they are built to match a particular socket type.

Yes, you can buy that retention hardware, but it will not be easy to find. Here in the US, it is easy, but I think UK rarely carry these specialty items. If you can not find it, you can improvise by buying a heatsink that uses the mounting hardware that is already on your motherboard.

The following heatsinks might work.

ZALMAN CNPS7700-ALCU
ZALMAN CNPS7000B-ALCU


I have ZALMAN CNPS7700-CU.

I believe it's called a CPU Fan Retainer Clip

Edit: It looks like you can get one here: http://on2tech.com/index.asp?PageAct...OD&ProdID=1774

It's one of the worst designs for a heat sink retainer. That's what it is. You end up having to put so much downward force on the heat sink you end up damaging the motherboard if it is not properly attached to the case.

IMHO AMD is much better.

xor

thankyou all!

Problem was solved with ebay.co.uk, there a dealer with a shop there, who had several.