How to tell what CPU you have without using a computer?

[kennetht04]

Hi. I found out the reason my computer isn't working is because the CPU is fried. I know this because I tried an older CPU on my computer and it ran perfectly well (except it didn't boot, probably because the CPU isn't compatible with my motherboard, but it sounded healthier and it didn't restart over and over again, which is what it was doing initially). Thing is, I want to buy the same CPU as the one that is fried, but I can't seem to tell what CPU it is. Any suggestions on how to find out?

Sorry for my stupidity.

 

[Karsten75]

Remove the cooler from the CPU, clean off the thermal paste and you will be able to read the CPU identification stamped on the chip.

THis site will help you if the information there isn't clear. http://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/index.html

As for the rest, I'm just pretending I didn't read it, since I don't have the faintest idea how and if it even makes sense.