Thermal grease for the processor consists of a substance with high thermal conductivity, and performs the function of a heat conductor when the cooling system is not tightly connected to the processor chip.
The basis of the thermal paste is liquid silicone with the addition of oxides of various metals. Cheaper options contain zinc oxide. Silver oxide can be added to expensive thermal greases.
Externally, thermal paste resembles a liquid toothpaste or cream, usually white or light gray. In retail, it is sold in tubes or syringes of 1-2 grams.
Sooner or later, every computer owner has to deal with a situation where the thermal paste needs to be replaced on the processor. Typically, this situation is preceded by the following symptoms:
- There was a strong fan noise of the processor cooling system. During the work of "weighty" applications, noise is amplified.
- The system starts to slow down and freeze.
- On some computer models, overheating of the processor causes the system to shut down and reboot.
In addition, the computer should be periodically cleaned of dust and dirt, not only outside but also inside. In this case, without waiting for the appearance of the above signs, the thermal paste can also be replaced.
Caring for the computer, disassembling, cleaning and replacing the working parts of the system unit is done with the same simplicity as caring for a regular bicycle. Therefore, you can replace thermal grease at home, with your own hands. To do this, you need a screwdriver, the paste itself, a bright room and a little effort.
Thermal grease for the processor is sold in almost any computer store or in the departments of accessories for office equipment. Due to the inconspicuous nature of the packaging, it is difficult to detect on the counter, so you should contact the seller.
Before disassembling the system unit, you must remove clothing from materials that accumulate static voltage, since you will have to come into contact with the processor. Static discharge can damage the chip. It is recommended to sit next to the battery or pipes of the heating system, and periodically touch them, removing electric charge from yourself , before taking on the processor.
The system unit must be disconnected from the network and from other devices. Then, by unscrewing the screws, remove the cover to gain access to the cooler, which cools the processor.
Supply wires leave the cooler fan. They must be disconnected from the motherboard.
If the manufacturer of the processor is Intel, then in order to remove the heat sink, it is necessary to turn the four fastening screws in the indicated direction. For AMD processors, just push the latch and move it to the side.
Having removed the cooler, gray or white matter can be found on its lower part . This is the thermal grease for the processor. The same layer can be seen on the microchip itself.
Use a soft cloth or cloth to remove old paste. It is important that during the cleaning process, the materials used do not leave fibers or streaks. The cooler radiator and fan should be free of dust and dirt, blow with compressed air.
The thermal paste is applied to the processor in a thin layer, evenly distributed over the surface. There are several methods of application, but the most correct one will be that in which, after installing the heatsink on the processor, there will be no air bubbles between them, and the paste layer itself will be minimal.
When installing the cooler in place, you should not make efforts trying to squeeze out excess thermal paste. This can cause damage to the motherboard, or deformation of the processor socket. After connecting the fan power contact, you must turn on the computer and let it work for a while. If it does not turn off, then the radiator is installed correctly, and you can screw the system unit cover into place.
To finally make sure that thermal grease for the processor is replaced qualitatively, you must enter the BIOS. The temperature of the processor should significantly decrease and amount to 35-36 degrees Celsius.