The Boxed Intel® Xeon™ Processor with 800 MHz system bus includes three different heat sink solutions optimized for different platform form factors: 

• 1U passive for 1U rack configurations (requires ducting)
• 2U passive for 2U and above rack and pedestal applications (requires ducting) 
• Active heat sink solution for pedestal chassis

All three heat sink solutions share a common retention base referred to as Common Enabling Kit or CEK. This was done to allow different heat sinks to all attach the same way without modification to the chassis or system board. CEK is a direct chassis attach method allowing the weight of the heat sink to transfer into the chassis back plane. This reduces stress to the system board in the event of a drop or system shock.

Refer to the Integration Overview for Boxed Intel® Xeon™ Processor with 800 MHz system bus for complete integration information.

Problem:
There is a potential risk of breaking the heat sink screws if they are over tightened beyond specification during installation. The screws that are used to secure the heat sink to the chassis back plane are designed for a maximum torque of 20 foot pounds. Exceeding this specification may result in the screw head breaking off.

Corrective Action / Resolution:
Beginning in September 2004, Intel Corporation began using a heat sink screw with higher torque tolerance. This change has occurred on all Intel® Xeon™ processors with 800 MHz system bus, and on all three thermal solutions. See table below for effected products.

Integrators must continue to use caution during the installation of the thermal solution to avoid over torque the heat sink screws. It is recommended that during installation that each screw is started. Then tighten the screws using a crisscross pattern.

CAUTION: Over tightening can result in damage to the processor, heat sink, chassis, and or the server board.

Effected Products:
Only product packaged before September 2004 is effected. Product packaged after September 2004 uses the new screw with increased torque specifications. Continued caution with the new screw should be taken during integration to avoid over tightening the screw.

This applies to:

Intel® Xeon® Processor