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Provided all the safety precautions and steps have been followed (you have been discharged of static charge, everything is unplugged from the motherboard [peripherals and power cord], etc)
the first thing to do is to remove the CPU cooler (if you haven't done so already.
Depending on what manufacturer you have for your CPU, you may have 2 screws and/or latches (AMD) or 4 screws (Intel). Once that's done, use a clean cloth and apply an appropriate amount of at least 70% isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Use this soaked cloth and wipe off the old thermal paste on the CPU's IHS (integrated heat spreader) and the bottom of the heatsink on your CPU cooler.
Once that's done, apply a small drop of thermal paste onto your CPU, or as your paste's manufacturer suggests (For reference, Arctic Silver's websites has manuals for application processes depending on type of CPU you have). Carefully align your CPU cooler's heatsink/block over the CPU and re-attach the mounting screws/brackets. If you pull it back out again to check the spread, you will have to re-clean it with the isopropyl alcohol-soaked cloth and re-apply again (not doing so may introduce air pockets which will trap heat in between your CPU and the cooler).
What else can I help you with?
What is usually found directly beneath the CPU fan of a computer?
The CPU heatsink, then thermal paste and the CPU itself.
What goes between a CPU and heat sink?
Heatsink compount or special heat pad. The reason for this is to form a tight thermal bond between the processor (CPU = Central Processing Unit) and heatsink for the best transfer of heat away from the CPU.
Which objects will be touching thermal paste?
The thermal paste is typically applied between the CPU and the heatsink, or the GPU and the heatsink, to fill in microscopic gaps and ensure better heat transfer between the two surfaces.
Is it necessary to use cooling paste on the processor?
To keep your processor cool, use a thermal paste. If you're installing a cooler, you'll need to use Gelid Solutions GC-Extreme Thermal Compound on the contact surface of your CPU, GPU or chipset. The applicator makes it easy to apply this product to your cooler.
Does a new CPU come with thermal paste?
Usually no, unless the box also comes with a heatsink. The paste will be on the bottom of the heatsink, not on the top of the processor.
After I install a new processor and cpu fan to my computer is there something else i need to do?
Yes, after installing a new processor and CPU fan, you should apply thermal paste between the CPU and the heatsink for optimal heat transfer. Additionally, ensure that all connections are secure and the CPU fan is properly connected to the motherboard. Finally, double-check that the BIOS settings are updated and monitor the temperatures to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
How long does thermal paste take to settle?
Thermal paste typically settles within 200 hours of use. During this time, the paste starts to spread out and fill in any gaps between the CPU and the heatsink, providing better thermal conductivity. It's best to allow the system to run for a few hours to reach optimal performance after applying thermal paste.
Which cooling technology enables the contact surface area of the cooling device to be maximized with the CPU?
D. Thermal Paste
Which solution should be used to clean a CPU and a heat sink?
Isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth are commonly used to clean a CPU and heat sink. Apply the alcohol to the cloth and gently wipe the surfaces to remove any dirt or thermal paste build-up. Ensure both components are completely dry before reinstalling.
Where does thermal paste go?
Thermal paste is applied in a thin layer on the surface of a CPU or GPU before attaching the cooler. It helps improve heat transfer between the component and the cooler, ensuring efficient cooling. It is important to apply the right amount – too little can lead to poor heat dissipation, while too much can cause overheating.
What is the best way to apply thermal compound when reseating a CPU?
To apply thermal compound when reseating a CPU, place a small pea-sized amount at the center of the CPU. Avoid spreading it with your finger; instead, let the pressure from the heatsink spread it evenly when you install it. This method helps prevent air bubbles and ensures proper heat transfer.
Where should the thermal paste go when installing a processor?
When installing a processor, thermal paste should be applied evenly on the center of the CPU's heat spreader. A small pea-sized amount is usually sufficient, as it will spread out when the heatsink is secured. Avoid applying too much, as excess paste can spill over the edges and potentially cause electrical issues. After applying, attach the heatsink firmly to ensure proper contact for effective heat transfer.
