Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame is an accessory designed to replace the stock Independent Loading Mechanism (ILM) on Intel LGA 1700 motherboards. Its primary purpose is to mitigate CPU warping or bending that can occur with the standard retention mechanism, thereby improving contact between the CPU's Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) and the CPU cooler. This can lead to more efficient heat transfer and potentially lower CPU temperatures.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect power from your computer before performing any installation or maintenance.
• Handle the CPU and motherboard with care to avoid damage to sensitive components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD).
• Keep small parts, such as screws, away from children.
• If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified technician or refer to additional resources.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in your package:

• 1 x Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame
• 1 x L-shaped Torx screwdriver

Image: Package contents including the contact frame and L-shaped screwdriver.

4. Setup & Installation

This section provides detailed instructions for installing the Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame. It is recommended to watch the installation video for visual guidance before proceeding.

4.1. Installation Video Guide

4.2. Step-by-Step Installation

1. Prepare your system: Ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the wall. Remove the side panel of your PC case to access the motherboard.
2. Remove the CPU cooler: Carefully detach your existing CPU cooler from the motherboard. Clean any old thermal paste from the CPU's IHS and the cooler's base using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth.
3. Access the CPU socket: Open the CPU socket's retention arm and lift the stock Independent Loading Mechanism (ILM) frame. The CPU should remain seated in the socket.
4. Remove stock ILM screws: Use the included L-shaped Torx screwdriver to carefully loosen and remove the four screws securing the stock ILM to the motherboard. Retain these screws and the motherboard's backplate as they will be reused.
5. Remove the stock ILM: Once the screws are removed, carefully lift and remove the stock ILM. Ensure the CPU remains in place.
6. Install the Thermalright Contact Frame: Place the Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame over the CPU, aligning the screw holes with those on the motherboard. Ensure the insulated side of the socket backplate (if it came off) is facing the motherboard.
7. Secure the Contact Frame: Use the original four screws to secure the Thermalright Contact Frame. Tighten the screws in a diagonal pattern (e.g., top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left) gradually until they are snug. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the motherboard or CPU.
8. Apply thermal paste: Apply a fresh layer of high-quality thermal paste to the center of the CPU's IHS.
9. Reinstall CPU cooler: Reinstall your CPU cooler according to its manufacturer's instructions.
10. Final checks: Double-check all connections and ensure no tools or loose screws are left inside the PC case. Close the side panel and reconnect power.

Image: Diagram illustrating the removal of the original ILM and the installation of the Thermalright contact frame using the original screws.

Image: The Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame correctly installed around an Intel LGA 1700 CPU on a motherboard.

5. Function

The Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame addresses a known issue with Intel's LGA 1700 socket where the stock ILM can apply uneven pressure to the CPU, causing the Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) to slightly warp or bend. This warping can lead to suboptimal contact between the CPU and the cooler's base, resulting in reduced cooling performance and higher CPU temperatures.

By replacing the stock ILM with this contact frame, a more uniform pressure distribution is achieved across the CPU's IHS. This helps to maintain a flatter surface, maximizing the contact area with the CPU cooler and improving thermal transfer efficiency. The result is often lower CPU temperatures and enhanced stability, particularly under heavy loads.

Image: The Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame, an all-aluminum anti-oxidation component designed for CPU fixation.

6. Maintenance

The Thermalright LGA 1700 V2 CPU Contact Frame requires minimal maintenance. Periodically, when performing other PC maintenance (e.g., cleaning dust), you may:

• Dust Removal: Use compressed air to gently remove any dust accumulation around the contact frame and CPU socket area.
• Inspection: Visually inspect the contact frame for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure all screws remain snug.
• Thermal Paste: If you remove your CPU cooler for any reason, always clean off old thermal paste and apply a fresh layer before reattaching the cooler.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after installing the CPU Contact Frame, consider the following:

• High CPU Temperatures:
  • Ensure the CPU cooler is properly seated and making good contact with the CPU's IHS.
  • Verify that thermal paste was applied correctly and evenly.
  • Check that the CPU cooler's fans are spinning and functioning correctly.
  • Confirm that the contact frame screws are tightened adequately but not excessively.
• System Not Booting / No Display:
  • Double-check that the CPU is correctly seated in the socket and the contact frame is installed without obstructing any pins or components.
  • Ensure all power cables (24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS) are securely connected to the motherboard.
  • Reseat RAM modules and graphics card.
• Physical Damage:
  • If any component appears physically damaged during installation, cease operation and contact Thermalright support.

8. Specifications

Image: The contact frame shown with its approximate dimensions and the included L-shaped screwdriver.

9. Warranty & Support

9.1. Warranty Information

Thermalright products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty information provided with your purchase or visit the official Thermalright website. This product is intended as a replacement part and its warranty typically covers manufacturing defects.

9.2. Customer Support

If you have any questions, require technical assistance, or need to report an issue, please contact Thermalright customer support through their official website or the retailer from whom you purchased the product. Provide your product model and purchase details for faster service.

Official Thermalright Website: www.thermalright.com