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Introduction
Most of us, at one point or another, have had to modify the insides of our computers. Whether it was adding a
new memory stick, fixing a cable, or even more advanced stuff like actually building the computer. Every
time you open your computer case, new risks arise. There is always the danger of you doing something
wrong (knowingly or unknowingly) that can cause major, and usually permanent, damage to the computer.
It is a horrible feeling to find out that something you did has now ruined your computer (I speak from
experience). So in order to reduce the number of stupid mistakes people make, we need to educate the
people.
It is always a good idea to research what you are doing before you do it, but sometimes you feel like you
know everything and don't want to waste any time learning (that's me!). Well, let me let you in on a little
secret...YOU DON'T KNOW EVERYTHING! I thought that I did, and now my computer sits silenced in
the corner of my room. So, the rest of this tutorial will go over the stupid mistakes I (and others) made
while working on my computer. I highly suggest you heed my warnings and be careful when working on
your computer.
Step 1 - Thermal Paste: Who Needs It?
Why Reapply?
Computers generate lots of heat, especially the processor. Therefore, on the processor sits on a heatsink, with
a layer of thermal compound (paste or pad) in between the two. The compound and heatsink draw heat
away from the processor to keep it from burning up. So having both (not just one) is very important. Not
reapplying was my biggest mistake.
(Re)applying compound really is not that difficult. Most processors either come with a thermal pad already
attached or provide detailed instructions on how to apply the paste/pad. Pads are very simply done. You
just find the middle of the heatsink and place the pad there and then install the heatsink. Paste, however
requires a bit more work. You need to place a small drop of paste on the die of the processor and then
spread it around (add more if necessary) until it is about as thick as a sheet of paper. For more help on
thermal compound and installing heatsinks, try these links:
http://www.arcticsilver.com/instructions.htm
http://www.neoseeker.com/Hardware/faqs/kb/5,61.html
http://www.amd.com/us-en/Processors/TechnicalResources/0,,30_182_869_4348%5E6678,00.html
http://www.heatsink-guide.com/content.php?content=compound.shtml
Just in case you are wondering what happens if you don't reapply, let me show you:
That doesn't look too good does it? Your computer WILL NOT work if you do not (re)apply thermal
compound.