1-2-3-4 pressure



You need to install a new CPU, but you’re concerned about damaging the motherboard. Which microprocessor interface requires the least amount of motherboard pressure during installation?

A) DIP

B) Slot

C) ZIF

D) SEC

E) Consider NOT using a hammer this time


The answer: C) ZIF

A Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) interface requires no pressure to install a CPU into a motherboard. This is especially useful for PGA (Pin Grid Array) microprocessors where the large number of pins would make it very difficult to install using any amount of pressure. With a ZIF, these complex processors can be installed with ease!

Want to know more? Watch “Processor Sockets.”

Processors come in many different shapes and sizes. In this video, you’ll learn about DIP sockets, Slot sockets, and PGA sockets.