Although the XLR8 CarrierZIF now comes with an excellent illustrated manual I still get a lot of mails from readers that don't own one and are confused or curious over the setup and card options. Although recently Other World Computing started including an illustrated guide with their CarrierZIF/CPU module bundles, since I had already taken the photos for this article I decided to go ahead and post it. In some ways it covers things better (clearer for novices) than any other source in my opinion and hopefully will be of help to future and current CarrierZIF owners.

This guide covers:

• Basic CarrierZIF layout and features
• Important notes on heatsink clip orientation
• Compatible ZIF CPU modules
• Installing the CPU gasket
• Applying thermal paste to the CPU
• Installing the heatsink
• Switch settings details
• Explanation of speed settings
• Installation/Troubleshooting Tips & compatible Mac models

I've broken this original long article into several pages since it's 'image heavy' but I feel the images clarify important points and are worth the bandwidth. As with my CPU Card reviews the links to pages in this article are top and bottom of each page. A red page link identifies which page you're on.

For reviews and other articles related to the XLR8 CarrierZIF, see my CPU cards page. For questions relating to pricing, availability and specific Mac model compatibility (esp. for PowerTower Pro owners) contact XLR8. XLR8 has stated publicly the CarrierZIF is G4 CPU compatible so it offers an upgrade path to faster CPUs unlike no other CPU slot card available now (which have soldered in CPUs).

For CarrierZIF owner reports, searchable by Mac model use my Rate Your G3 Upgrade database, selecting 'XLR8 CarrierZIF' as the card brand.

Preparation: Before you work on any Mac or electronic component, make sure you have a clean, well-lit area that is as static-free as possible (don't work on carpeted surfaces!). I use and highly recommend a anti-static floor mat (available at many computer stores). The CarrierZIF comes with a anti-static wrist strap - use it. In a study I read in engineering more than 90% of all electronics failures were due to exposure to static electricity at some point in their life (from assembly to end user handling). Failure to take precautions may not always destroy the device immediately but can shorten its lifespan dramatically. I also like to touch the metal chassis of the mac before attempting any upgrades or repairs. If you're not qualified to perform work like this have a local dealer or authorized service center do it for you.

The next page of this guide illustrates the CarrierZIF card details and features. Or you can use the links below to jump to another part of this guide or other related links.

  Related Links:

• Undocumented CarrierZIF bus speeds (60-66MHz). XLR8 doesn't support this and these speeds will not be reliable on most Macs (PowerCenter Pros are a possible exception). Bus speeds add little to G3 card performance so concentrate on reliability.

• XLR8 CarrierZIF Review (tests in 4 mac models - 9600/350, Genesis (9500), PowerCenter Pro and PowerTower Pro 180)

• First Look: XLR8 CarrierZIF

• Rate Your G3 Upgrade database - 2100+ owner entries on literally every brand of upgrade from owners of most every upgradeable Mac. Searchable by Mac model and/or upgrade card brand.

• CPU Card Reviews (G3 & 604E) and Related Articles - reviews of many brands/models of CPU upgrades and articles on bus speeds, cache and more.