thermal paste question

[faek]

Ok, on AMD processors they include their own thermal paste patch on the bottom of the heatsink. I was putting my computer together today when I noticed it said:

"If you remove the heatsink/fan after initial installation, you must first clean the heatsink surface and apply new thermal interface material before reinstalling the heatsink/fan on your processor."

Read that AFTER I had removed the unit a couple times, deciding which side I wanted the retention bracket on. AMD also notes that all their processors [maybe just from now on] MUST have some kind of thermal past applied to their CPU/heatsink.

So, from what you know and have experienced, is it necessary? It's not like I have lost any of the paste from switching it's orientation, but I don't want to do something potentially fatal to the main part of my system. The only difference I can think of is the paste may not be uniform anymore, and maybe there's some tiny tiny spaces in there now. So how big of a deal is it? Thanks

 

[FlashDude]

All oem cpu hs/f's came with thermal pads, and yes you must replace that asap.

 

[faek]

DANG. Well ok, don't want to do something stupid and screw it up. Not that i'm second-guessing you, but does everybody else second that? I'm just curious if anybody's ever done it before.. and what happened. [I mainly just want to try booting my computer tonight to see if it will work at all, then shutting it down until I fix the problem... I'm finishing it up right now..]

 

[Superb]

Since that question is answered, I'll ask a similar one. A processor should come with the Thermal Paste already on, correct? So I would just have to place the heatsink/fan on it and I'm good to go?

 

[faek]

If it's on there, yes.

 

[bum]

To faeks second post:

You could get away with it sure. I think I actually removed my cpu acouple times cuz I wasn't sure it was sitting right. Nothing bad happened yet.... You should really clean it off and put on some artic silver 5 thou, but it'll be ok for now as long as it sticks.

 

[faek]

Cool. So then, anytime the heatsink is removed w/ thermal paste already applied, you're supposed to completely reapply it correct? Is that the rule?

 

[bum]

yeah clean it all off and then reapply, thats what it says in the instructions and its a good idea, but if you want to boot up and make sure its working right I think your safe to do so.

 

[Syrillian]

Cool. So then, anytime the heatsink is removed w/ thermal paste already applied, you're supposed to completely reapply it correct? Is that the rule?

Yes, I second the motion.

The TIC (Thermal Interface Compound) is vital, not a detail to skimp on (Arctic Silver 5 is universally recommended). Also, it is highly recommended that you use a xylene-based cleaner to thoroughly clean the HSF and the CPU. Do Not use any cleaners that are scented (i.e. citrus scented Goo-Gone) and do not use WD-40. Goof-Off is an excellent cleaner.

Take care of that CPU, then OC it...

 

[faek]

Yes, I second the motion.
....................................
Take care of that CPU, then OC it...

Hahaha, well thanks for answering all my questions guys. Suppose I will opt for Arctic Silver 5, since It's spoken so highly of [and 700+ perfect reviews on newegg!] I just hope I can find it locally easily enough.

Syrillian, I've been researching overclocking a lot, since this build would be my first experience with it.. making me as much scared as I am excited about it. Processor = AMD 4200 X2 and other parts are at least on par with that. I just hope it all goes well.. would hate for my greed to ruin such a nice system..