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Heatsink ABCs
Thermal Compound
CPU information
Temperature troubleshooting

HEATSINK ABCs

With the increase of performance, heat has become a big issue with computer processors and other advanced peripherals. If your computer processor is a Pentium 66MHz or faster processor, it is highly recommended that you ensure it has a heatsink for the CPU.

There are two types of heatsinks which are an Active and Passive heatsink. The Active heatsinks utilize power and are usually a fan type or some other peltier cooling device. If you are looking to purchase an Active heatsink, it is recommended that you purchase fans with ball-bearing motors which generally last much longer than sleeve bearings. The Passive heatsinks are 100% reliable, as they have no mechanical components. Passive heatsinks are made of an aluminum-finned radiator that dissipates heat through convection. For Passive heatsinks to work to their full capacity, it is recommended that there is a steady air flow moving across the fins.

THERMAL COMPOUND

Thermal compound (heatsink jelly, heatsink compound, thermal gunk, silicon compound) is a sticky paste which is placed directly onto the CPU. This compound allows for the heatsink to placed directly to the CPU. This material is used to prevent air gaps from forming between the CPU and heatsink which can cause poor heat conductivity. This compound is an inexpensive solution and can be found at any local Radio shack or computer repair center.

Because this is a sticky paste and is not a suitable solution when used for manufacturers who mass produce computers, most of these manufacturers utilize a graphite pad which is better than nothing; however, it is not as good as a thermal compound unless high pressure is applied to the pad. If you would like to switch to the thermal compound you must remove the graphite pad; these two solutions cannot be used at the same time. If you plan to over clock your computer CPU, it is recommended that you use the thermal compound.

To apply the thermal compound, apply a very thin layer onto the heatsink onto the surface of the heatsink using a flat tool such as a post card, piece of paper, piece of plastic, credit card, etc. Do NOT user your fingers to apply the compound as they contain oils and other substances that can cause issues. If you do need to use your finger cover it with plastic.

I have accidentally spilt a small amount of thermal compound on my Motherboard

While the thermal compound does not conduct electricity and your motherboard should work fine if any is spilt onto it, it is generally recommended that you apply the thermal compound over a piece of news paper to prevent this from happening.