<P> In computer hardware, a CPU socket or CPU slot comprises one or more mechanical components providing mechanical and electrical connections between a microprocessor and a printed circuit board (PCB). This allows for placing and replacing the central processing unit (CPU) without soldering . </P> <P> Common sockets have retention clips that apply a constant force, which must be overcome when a device is inserted . For chips with a large number of pins, zero insertion force (ZIF) sockets are preferred . Common sockets include Pin Grid Array (PGA) or Land Grid Array (LGA). These designs apply a compression force once either a handle (PGA type) or a surface plate (LGA type) is put into place . This provides superior mechanical retention while avoiding the risk of bending pins when inserting the chip into the socket . Certain devices use Ball Grid Array (BGA) sockets, although these require soldering and are generally not considered user replaceable . </P> <P> CPU sockets are used on the motherboard in desktop and server computers . Because they allow easy swapping of components, they are also used for prototyping new circuits . Laptops typically use surface - mount CPUs, which take up less space on the motherboard than a socketed part . </P>

Which type of cpu socket has the pins located on the motherboard