How To: Disassembling an IBM POWER4 MCM
The IBM POWER4 was released in 2001. It was a 1.1-1.9GHz dual core processor widely used in IBM’s server line including the RS/6000 and AS/400. It can be commonly found as a single chip dual core, but also as a large MCM containing 4 POWER4 dies. These MCMs include a very large and heavy aluminium heatsink attached to a solid copper housing. The complete unit weighs in at a hefty 3kg. The heatsink and housing can be removed revealing a 230 gram MCM (with its small heat spreaders).
To disassemble one of these you will need a variety of tools. A 4 mm socket, hex bits (2.5, 3 and 4mm), T8 torx bit , a medium flat tip screw driver, gloves and a good heat source (I use a propane torch)
First remove the 4 T8 torx screws that hold the interposer to the module. It gets in the way and can melt easily. Also remove the 8 3mm screws around the perimeter. These hold the aluminium heatsink to the copper housing.
