New heatsink, new TIM

Trae Barlow

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Mar 28, 2014
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I quit smoking last week, so my cousin bought me a Hyper 212 Evo as a gift. I couldn't say no, and now I can't go back to smoking without damaging my reputation, so it's working out well for my health.

Anyway, I've been researching TIM. I decided to get some Shin-Etsu MicroSI X23-7762 because I hear it's a solid performer and will last a decade without drying out. I only upgrade once every 5 or so years, so I want something that will last-- I really hate to risk damaging my CPU in re-applying ppaste. As a freelance worker in the IT business this sort of information is gold, CEOs tend to get angry when that AS5 you threw on dries up or eats out their companies CPUs. Re-applying TIM on 50 computers every 6 months is bad business as well. I have a few questions.

What should I use to remove the Intel-stock compound on my I7? I was thinking 97% Isopropyl and a dozen or so Q-Tips. These have proven semi successful in the past, but I'm always looking for something better. I also have some "electronic wipes" I got from Tiger Direct..

How much does a "grain of TIM rice" measure up? I usually use the the "grain of rice" method, but since the Shin Etsu comes in a marked syringe, I was thinking of going purely-scientific and applying an exact amount, like (I dunno) .05 grams.
 

dragonsamus

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Apr 30, 2012
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I use rubbing alcohol and q tips to clean the old paste. When I had the Hyper 212 I applied a line of paste on the two inner heat pipes one third the length of the heat pipe. This method worked out pretty for me.
 

Trae Barlow

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Mar 28, 2014
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Another question. Can I clean the CPU while still in the socket, or do I need to pop it out. Can't remember what I've done in the past, I haven't done a chip install (before this i7) since the ZIF socket was it.
 

Trae Barlow

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Mar 28, 2014
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Watching this video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rn0BqMyXBM#

ASUS is recommending that you apply an amount of TIM equal to the size of one of their capacitors. Look/sound about right? This is the TIM I plan on using...
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/8922/thr-58/Shin-Etsu_X23-7783D_Silicone_Thermal_Compound_-_5_Gram.html

I'd use AS5 but Shin Etsu is supposed to have a much longer application life expectancy, longer than the life of most CPUs. I don't want to be doing re-applications every year or two. I'm only planning a moderate overclock (ASUS AI controlled) so I can spare a degree or two.