When removing the thermal assembly on a laptop, what is the recommended method?

Lifting the thermal assembly by the heatsinks is the recommended method because it minimizes the risk of damage to the delicate components within the laptop. The heatsinks are designed to absorb and dissipate heat efficiently and serve as the primary structural support for the thermal assembly. When handled correctly by lifting from the heatsinks, the assembly can be removed without putting undue strain on the attached components, such as the fans or the processor.

Using tools or twisting the assembly can lead to damage to clamps, screws, or even the motherboard. Additionally, lifting by the fans may create additional stress on the fan components, which could lead to failure or deformation. Following the best practices for component removal, such as gripping the thermal assembly from the heatsink areas, ensures that technicians maintain the integrity of the laptop while performing necessary repairs or maintenance.