sizes of cpu components

[eggman21]

whether i'll be a fan, processors or various heatsinks, how can you know which ones to buys just in case? example, xp fans may carry certain volts, heatsinks come in different sizes, do processors come in different sizes? what about any graphic cards? only reason why i'm asking because i was sanding one of my xp processors and accidently erase the markings of it. does the markings have something to do with a certain model of a certain computer? also i wanna learn of bying things becuase cpu's can get pretty costly.

 

[SgtScream]

Generally case manufacturers have specifications detailing atx form factor, max gpu length, max cpu height, etc.

 

[TJ Hooker]

Case fans are pretty standard. If your mobo has 4 pin connectors, you can buy 3 or 4 pin connector fans. Not sure about using a 4 pin fan on a 3 pin connector though.

For coolers/heatsinks, if you go to the product page it will list which sockets it works with. Your case will list max CPU cooler height that works with it.

For processors, the CPU must match the socket of the mobo. E.g. Intel's latest mainstream CPUs/mobos are LGA 1151. In some cases, if a new CPU lineup is released after the original mobo lineup for a given socket, those early mobos may require a BIOS update to support the latest CPUs.

Graphics cards are all standard, just need a x16 PCIe slot on your mobo, which pretty much every mobo should have at least one of. Your case specs will list the max size (length) of card it can support.

 

[gdmaclew]

whether i'll be a fan, processors or various heatsinks, how can you know which ones to buys just in case? example, xp fans may carry certain volts, heatsinks come in different sizes, do processors come in different sizes? what about any graphic cards? only reason why i'm asking because i was sanding one of my xp processors and accidently erase the markings of it. does the markings have something to do with a certain model of a certain computer? also i wanna learn of bying things becuase cpu's can get pretty costly.

Why were you "sanding" one of your xp processors?