|
This document describes common failure reasons for processors and motherboards. Each item contains a brief definition with a link to more information that may help prevent the damage in the future.
Definitions
Bent Pin
Definition: Pin on processor is bent beyond specifications. Processor cannot be inserted into the socket on the motherboard. The damage may be caused by mishandling the processor, improper removal of the processor from the shipping material, or incorrect insertion into the processor socket.
Broken Clip
Definition: Clip is damaged or broken preventing a component from being securely fastened to the motherboard. For example, a processor heatsink clip that is broken will result in a loose connection that may lead to overheating. A component secured by a broken clip may detach during shipment causing damage to other components in the system.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Contamination
Definition: Foreign material on a component that prevents reliable connectivity between two interfaces. A processor in the LGA775 package may be contaminated if oils or other material covers the LAND contact pads.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Corrosion
Definition: A chemical action that destroys a metal surface through oxidation, electrolysis, or contamination. Corrosion may prevent connectivity causing a system to fail. No further information is available.
Cut Traces
Definition: Traces on the motherboard that are cut or disconnected at one or more points. Typically, damage to traces is caused by improper installation during integration of components (processor, heatsinks, memory, expansions cards, etc.). A screwdriver may slip off the screw and cut a trace. A trace may be damaged if a component such as a heatsink is dropped during integration.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Damaged Connector
Definition: A connector on the motherboard with damage that either prevents the installation of the component that fits in the socket or prevents proper connectivity between the board and the component. Common connectors are those used for memory, power supply cables, and disk drive cables.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Damaged Port
Definition: A port attached to the motherboard with damage preventing proper connectivity between the board and an external component of the system. Common ports are printer ports, keyboard and mouse ports, USB, and network ports.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Damaged/Missing Component
Definition: Any component on the motherboard or processor that is damaged or missing. A missing capacitor or damaged jumper header may be classified in this category.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Electrical Overstress
Definition: Electrical overstress (EOS) is an unusual spike in voltage applied to the system that causes damage at the component or board level, causing the component or system to fail. EOS damage is typically not visible because the damage is at the transistor level. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is a subset of EOS.
Prevention Tips for EOS
Incorrect Marking
Definition: Product markings do not match the markings that are expected on the part. This may be evidence of re-marking or other fraudulent activity.
Processor identification utilities
More information on product identification for Intel® desktop boards
LGA775 Socket
Definition: The processor socket is damaged on a motherboard that supports processors in the LGA775 package. These processors do not have pins. The LGA775 socket contains 775 contacts that may be damaged during installation.
More information on LGA775 socket integration
Minor Scratches
Definition: The part displays minor scratches that cannot be explained by normal usage. The scratches may be the cause of system problems due to cut traces or damaged connectors or sockets.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
No Fault Found
Definition: When a product is returned to Intel, testing is performed on the product for continuous quality improvement. If a returned product passes testing at Intel, then it is classified as No Fault Found. Intel is unable to duplicate the failure.
Prevention Tips for No Fault Found
PCB splayed corner
Definition: The corner of the printed circuit board (PCB) is separated. The board may have been dropped causing damage to the traces or connectors.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Printed Circuit Board Damaged
Definition: The printed circuit board (PCB) is damaged in some manner other than cut traces or damaged connectors/sockets.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Printed Circuit Board Warpage
Definition: The printed circuit board (PCB) is warped or bent beyond specifications.
Prevention Tips for Physical Damage
Solder spread
Definition: There is evidence of excess solder on the board that may cause electrical damage to the board or system components. No further information is available.
Tampered Serial Nbr
Definition: There is evidence that the serial number (Nbr) on the part has been modified, replaced, or removed.
Customers who suspect they have purchased a part with a tampered serial number should take it back to their point of purchase.
Unauthorized Rework
Definition: There is evidence that the component has been modified in a manner that was not intended by the manufacturer. This evidence may include re-wiring or gluing of components onto the board.
Other
Definition: This category is used for damage that is not described by more common failure reasons. No further information is available.
Operating System:
This applies to:
| 
