What's the best thermal paste and pads to use for our beast's?

First off, I'd like to apologize if a thread was already created for this. I have searched high and low for an answer to this question.

I am finally planning to open er' up and apply the best thermal paste and pads. My question is, what is good or best to use for these beast's to ensure longevity and performance?

I guess this could be considered as a poll more or less but in any event this will help aid me in finding the right materials to purchase for this delicate procedure, thanks!!

btw, I have reviewed the M17X R2 wiki and I can't seem to find an answer as to how much of both pads and paste are we to apply during the process?

Thanks in advance for all of the help.

 

I used Fujipoly high performance pads and Tuniq TX-4 paste

 

I was gonna ask this question a little while ago. How thick is the tx-4?

 

This is what I read about in *PICS* Cooling Mods Done! TX-4 and Clip Mod! and Handsomerob seems to be fairly happy with the results but I was wondering what others are using and if they are equal or better in all aspects?

also, how much are we to use during application (both, pads and paste)?

After reviewing the thread *PICS* Cooling Mods Done! TX-4 and Clip Mod! Handsomerob explains that by setting the tube next to a light bulb, the paste thins for better application. So based off of this I can assume that the TX-4 is fairly thick and difficult to apply.

 

What I've found over the years is that if you ask 1,000 different people on the Internet this question (at least 1,000 who know their stuff) you'll get....well, okay, not 1,000, but at least a good dozen different answers.

Honestly, the best answer I can give you is go with what you are-

A) Comfortable with getting, factoring in price/ease of acquiring (no sense getting 40 dollar, .5 gram shots of something when you're not even sure what to do with it your first time)

B) Like the look of the most.

Fact is, most name brand paste will perform very well, and honestly I can tell you that there is very little (if any) noticeable difference between most of them provided they are applied properly. That said, here's a list of popular stuff that you could probably find

That I've used:

Arctic Silver 5- Oldie but still goodie. Needs a 'cure' time though.
OCZ Freeze- All-around solid champ. I like this stuff.
MX-2 - Quite a few people swear by this, not a fan myself
MX-3 - Again, some people say this is the best, but a pain to apply
Shin-Etsu - This is the crazy expensive, .5 gram shot I was talking about.

That I haven't used

IC Diamond
TX-4
Indego Xtreme
Arctic Ceramique
CoolerMaster Something or Other

Out of all of those, there is a chart floating around somewhere I can't find that shows that Indego and Shin-Etsu are the two best performing, but that all of the rest fall within a very narrow band of each other. So pick something you like, and have fun!

Edit- Found one of those charts.



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I don't really plan on using Ash's cooling mod until after my warranty expires so I'm hoping that the paste and pads will work for now. This will be my virgin attempt at performing this procedure and I just want to be sure of what to expect, the best materials to use, how much to use, and how to safely and effectively apply the material.

If I were to order the pads in bulk as in one sheet, how easy is it to cut the size and shapes that I would need? Is it already measured as in dotted lines or do I need to use basic measuring skills to size and cut out the 1.5mm or .05mm pieces?

 

the Tx-4 is pretty thick 66k CP i believe, but put it by a light bulb for 15-20 minutes spreads like butter.

 

That'd be hard for me since the only bulbs I have are at least 3ft. above my head.

 

Thanks man, this is essentially what I was inquiring about. I was going to originally purchase the Shin Etsu G751 as mentioned in the wiki but the paste is barely talked about among us M17X R2 owners (not to mention the price point for this stuff ) I guess your right in that I should pick up something that I would feel comfortable using but because this will be my first time using these materials, I just wanted to be reassured that what I decide to go with will be worth every dollar and drop of sweat

I am awaiting a GPU and fan replacement tommorrow and was thinking to go ahead and purchase the tools, paste and pads and see if the on-site tech can install everything at one-time?

 

you have to cut the pads with scissors. they are not dotted and you buy the sizes 1.0mm 1.5mm and .5 mm

Since you have 5870s you should just go ahead and get the .5mm pads I used .5 on the CPU mosfets and the northbridge, also I hear that .5mm pads are the size to use for the 5870's.

Fujipoly Premium Thermal Pad - VGA Block - 60 x 50 x 0.5 - Thermal Conductivity 6.0 W/mK - FrozenCPU.com

one of those pads is enough to do one GPU so three of those will be enough to do both cards and the CPU mosfets and northbridge.

I use TX-4 which has been proven to be better than ICD7 and AS5. I am ultimately pretty happy with it most of the time when I see ppl saying it sux is cuz they didn't put enough on. You need a thin layer but not AS5 thin.

Tuniq TX-4 High Performance Thermal Grease - 3.0g - FrozenCPU.com
you get 3.0 grams for 12.99 which is not bad at all it comes in a 1.0 ml syringe and only need .1-.15 ml at the most for each core and cpu die.


here are my temps for my CPU with fujipoly pads.5mm and tx-4(properly applied)
LOAD rime 95 torture test 20 mins
http://img832.imageshack.us/i/loadtemps.png/

IDLE:Surfing the web watching youtube videos nothing stressful
http://img242.imageshack.us/i/tempsa.png/

Ignore my GPU temps stupid techs broke my fan
Also the idle temps will not differ to much from other pastes but all enthusiast pastes shine and differ in the load temps.

 

LOL, time to get a stepping stool eh Anodize? (10 char)

 

And a goggle so I don't go blind. rofl.

 

Lol Anodize you can also let it sit outside in the sun for a bit honestly the colder it is the harder to apply, but lemme clarify even cold it is still far easier to apply than TX3 which was a PITA. lots of wasted paste trying to figure out a method to get it to apply easier. You don't have any lamps in your house? all ceiling lights?

Also predator4rmmars I put a post on the last page did you read it?

 

Beautiful!!!! + rep, this is a great response and one that should be included in the wiki. I now have a better idea of what I need to purchase! I am definitely going with the Fujipoly (3 sheets) but am torn between the Shin Etsu and IC Diamond? Which one has the lesser curing time and durability? Does IC Diamond severely scratch the die surface?

 

read this link before you go for icd7
http://forum.notebookreview.com/asu...epaste-tuniq-tx-4-result-better-than-icd.html

also, I believe that there is no cure time for the shin etsu but Reborn can comment on that as he has used shin etsu extensively.

look back at that post did you see my cpu temps idle and load? I was editing it.

Some ppl have reported that ICD7 does leave scratches on the CPU die, but I have never experienced that issue.

Also my ambient temps are anywhere from 75-80' F

 

This isn't directed at anybody in particular, but in general I really wish there were videos of ppl performing this procedure on their M17X's so that noobs such as myself could achieve a better understanding of the time and work involved.

 

Ya, your CPU temps are good for daily tasks however, those GPU temps are similar to mine. I just read up some more on IC Diamond and it does appear that it can scratch the CPU die which is something that I would be concerned with. I will have to ask Reborn how goes the Shin Etsu and to see if G751 is the only paste to use out of the lineup? I've heard nothing but rave reviews about TX-4 so I might end up using this brand as it is fairly cheaper than the rest. Thanks Mkelliny for the great info!!

I would like for this thread to stay open for those that are hesitant to purchase any cooling materials due to lack of information regarding "how much" to buy, and use for the purpose of keeping their temps down without voiding their warranty.

 

My GPU temps are all screwed up cuz the tech broke my fan normally i idle low 40's and max out at high 60's

 

I noticed a few days ago that my right GPU fan is rattling so I requested for a tech to come out and replace the fan. I hope that he does a good job (and not break anything)! That sux! When will a tech come out to replace your fan? Those temps are what I would like to see in my rig sometime soon

 

http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m17x/524781-dell-techs-ruin-more-than-they-fix.html

Here is the thread I made basically they screwed it up so much that I am getting a replacement system. All I can tell you is watch them closely and do not let them leave if you are not 100% satisfied everything is working and put back together correctly.

 

That's unfortunate Mkelliny that a tech destroyed your unit and that you have to wait for a replacement. I experienced the same situation with my R1, so from now on I wll definitely watch and observe every move the tech makes on my beast. As a matter of fact, I questioned the alienware tech on the phone about this and his reply was basically "if they break it, we'll replace it free of charge!" reassuring but ineffective at the least, I have to live in constant fear of a on-site tech maiming my machine? No thanks! However, what can I do? I need my unit working at peak performance as I am studying game design atm!

Note: The Alienware tech did offer to just send me the component and install it myself eliminating the need for a on-site tech to come out but I replied that I am hesitant to perform the procedure myself and potentially void my warranty due to my lack of experience. I realize that I will have to eventually go in myself and dissassemble the unit just to get the experience and that is why I plan on performing the cooling upgrade so that I can ease my fears somewhat lol!!

 

Anyone else out there that would like to share some insight on the appropriate method of re-applying paste and pads, the information will be extremely helpful to those that are like myself.

What paste/pads are you using and why?

What methods have you discovered that are effective in applying paste/pads?

What mistakes have you made when applying the thermal compound and pads, and what damages were incurred upon doing so?

How often do you change your paste/pads, and is it recommended to do so?

please share your experiences

 

Hey Predator-

If you would like to wait, I'll be re-applying paste (not pads, as those still will be brand new) on my new replacement R2 tomorrow.

I can easily film the process start to finish and upload it for you and anyone else interested. Will be using OCZ Freeze, but process should generally be the same with a few variables on the paste you're using.

 

Yep, I'm interested in that video as well! Will be doing a first time dissassembly to upgrade my processor on the m17xR2. I'm a little nervous to say the least

 

Excellent! I believe that this also deserves a sticky or a spot in the wiki, glad that you have offered to do this for us Praetorian77 +rep!!!

I think that the process would be the same (taking into consideration the amount applied respective of each brand and type) nevertheless very helpful.

 

For GPUs since I only apply paste once, I like to go with IC Diamond. When using those in combination with .5mm pads from frozencpu.com, ( I used these pads next time I might try these pads), I never saw temps over 75*C and that is with no cooling mods. That is also at stock clocks on Furmark.

Since I change CPU's so often I use Artic Silver 5 since I can get a lot, cheap and it works well. For the CPu when I put in a new chip and will be leaving it in for a long time I also go with IC Diamond.

Lots of people say the diamond dust in IC Diamond scratches the CPU die, but it shouldn't be an issue if your not constantly applying, removing and re-appling the paste. But in order to remove the paste I use ArctiClean 1& 2. It breaks down the thermal paste for easy removal and will minimize any scratching.

I only needed one sheet (the one I like too) to replace all thermal pads in the M17x R2 and still had a lot left over.

Also when applying the paste, I like to apply a small amount, and use something to spread it over in a thin flat layer. . This insures that a spot isn't missed when tightening the heatsink. Just putting a rice grain amount and squeezing it down can miss the corners. The arguement to my method is that air gets trapped in there, but lets be real. if air is being trapped, the CPU and heatsink are poorly designed. I've done this for all my applications (lots) and never had an issue. It also allows me to remove any possible excess.

Hope this helps.

 

Is OCZ freeze easy to apply? I think I bought it from Walmart, but can't find it. My room is darn messy.

 

OCZ Freeze is by far the easiest to spread thermal grease i have used & i have used loads of different thermal grease's over the years.

 

Agreed- OCZ Freeze was what I used during my 3 year stint in Europe (for some reason easier/cheaper there than AS5) and it was brilliant- temps just as good as AS5 right off the bat, and easy to apply- spreads easy if that's what you like to do, also works just fine with the 'rice grain' sized blob in the middle (what I do).

Only drawback I can see to it vs AS 5 is that AS 5 actually gets better with use, but even then, OCZ doesn't exactly get worse...

 

For IC Diamond it says this: "Curing Time: IC Diamond requires minimal time to attain peak performance; in most cases, IC Diamond will reach peak performance after two hours of use."

Does that mean it will be two hours from application until you should use your laptop or that every time you start it up it will take two hours to get the paste up to optimal performance?

 

That just means that the burn in time for ICD7 is 2 hours meaning that it will be at its peak performance in two hours of use, and after that it will not get any better.

 

Curing time generally refers to how long it takes before the paste is optimized for performance.

2 hours means that you should use the computer, but not tax it, for about 2 hours before the IC Diamond will be completely ready for being taxed to the limit. After that, you're good to go.

 

That's the worst thing about AS5 200 hours cure time.But i did not notice much difference to be honest Pre/Post curing time.

 

See, for me it's not a big deal as the machine is on 24/7, so it's only a little over a week of curing time for me. And I do get a noticeable drop over that week, nothing huge, but noticeable.

 

OCZ Freeze no curing time needed which is another reason i like the stuff.

 

Thanks DR650SE,

This information is very helpful for someone such as myself, sometimes I need very specific information to understand how to execute somethings lol. I am glad that you provided the pros and cons of using IC Diamond and how most of the damage is incurred upon removal and not by it's initial application. I don't doubt your experience with using ICD because your benchmarking records and posts (constantly changing CPU's) speak for themselves.

Is the paste difficult to work with as opposed to others (I'm assuming because of the diamond dust) that it is difficult to spread or apply? What tool(s) do you use to apply the paste?

Also, you mention that you only use one sheet of .5mm thermal pads. Is this to cover only the gpu's? or do you double up on the pads to cover the cpu as well? I can understand doubling up on the pads to reduce cost and improvise on what you already have but is it recommended to use this method?

Again, thanks DR650SE as this information will undoubtedly help those that are less experienced and help alleviate some anxiety when applying the type of cooling upgrade to their unit. I am beginning to feel more confident about going in and performing the upgrade

 

He just buys a bigger sheet What I linked you is three smaller sheets which is plenty for one application across all three components if you decided that you wanna do it again for some reason lol you would have to buy more. Where DR bought a big sheet and has some left over probably enough to redo it again.

here are your choices of the fujipoly I think he is using the EK pads which are pretty good as well. I am not sure the conductivity rating of the EK pads
LARGE:
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/1...ermal_Conductivity_60_WmK.html?tl=g8c487s1288

MEDIUM:
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/1...ermal_Conductivity_60_WmK.html?tl=g8c487s1288

SMALL:
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/1...ermal_Conductivity_60_WmK.html?tl=g8c487s1288

Also with three small you end up with more actual pad than the medium which isnt worth it honestly 3 x 60= 180 and 3 x 50 = 150 so you really are getting a divided 180 x 150 sheet and the large sheet is just huge. lol

 

I remember viewing a post that someone made about not using paste and pads together on a single component. Is this true? Can someone elaborate on this please?

 

Yes, You use one or the other and not both together. You want a thin layer of conductive material either/or if you use both together you will have undesirable results. Because you are trying to transfer heat through paste and pads which is not really effective.

 

OK, that makes sense! I was curious as to why you mentioned to use three different sheets as opposed to one full size sheet. LOL! I almost made that purchase a bit ago but thought I should wait to hear more of your guy's responses .

Quick question: I am curious as to which components require what size thermal padding? or does it matter, reason I ask is because DR650SE mentioned that he uses .5mm for all of his components.

Honestly, I can't believe the wealth of information that you guys possess. It is truly uncanny!

 

Lol thank you and you post so fast! haha Everytime I exit out this thread is back on top lol. But ya I just ordered 3 sheets of the .5mm fujipoly pads for my replacement system with the 5870's. I used 1.0 MM pads for my 4870's but the 5870's apparently need smaller ones .5 and i used the .5 on my mosfets and northbridge. So I listened to the uber wise DR and purchased 3 .5mm pads, but you can purchase a large sheet I just think its easier to work with the three smaller sheets than it is to work with one big sheet either way you go you will have plenty to get the job done.

 

OK, that's what I remember reading. So technically I could use pads or paste on specific components such as memory but only pads on the heatsink and then paste exclusively on the gpu and cpu die? This is where I get confused because the gpu's have 2 types of memory, vmem and IO correct? Which one do I apply paste/pads to?

I don't know if I am going to have much rep to spread but I owe you.

 

Once you take off the heat sink there are two strips of pads replace those with pads on your actually GPU die use paste, and for the CPU again once you remove the heatsink you will see 1 strip of pad replace that with a pad and on the CPU die you will use paste. There is a small heatsink located next to the CPU heatsink that is the NorthBridge Die you remove the 2 screws holdin it in place and replace the square pad with another pad. I used .5 for the NB and CPU mosfets. You will want to use .5 all around. And don't worry I don't help for the rep haha I would want someone to do the same for me if it was reversed (which has happened here I love this site) once you remove the heatsinks it will all become clear lol

 

LOL, thanks! I want to keep this thread alive as much as possible before I make my purchases so I know what to get . Okay, I think I understand what is being relayed. I need to purchase a specific size for the 5870's (.5mm) However, this size will also work on my northbridge (heatsink(s)) and mosfets (mem I/O) as well? Now I know to get three sheets of the .5mm in which I think will be the safest bet that way I use all of it. Man this is soo helpful thanks!!!!

 

The mosfets for the CPU is not the MEM I/O that is on the GPU. Lol trust me it is difficult to imagine with just words, but once you open her up it will all become clear.

 

WOW! Okay, so everything is fairly self explanatory. Just follow the trail of pads and paste and remove/re-apply! So the northbridge is laying upside down to where the pad is out of view? Thus I have to remove it to replace the pad? Also for the mosfets, do they have stock pads on them as well that way I will notice them? Again, many thanks man!!

 

Yah once you open it up you will see 4 heatsinks 2 for the GPU's one for the CPU and one small one for the NB. Once you undo all the heatsinks you will see exactly where the pads go and where the paste goes. The pads are green cant miss them.

 

Allright, just received confirmation from Dell that my replacement 5870 is on the way, so I will definitely be able to make the video tomorrow, will take apart my R2 and re-apply paste on the GPU's and CPU for you- will make sure to point out where the pads are, but as I mentioned, they'll still factory fresh so I won't replace them just yet.

Should be up by tomorrow evening, if you can wait that long.

 

Man, my bad for confusing gpu mem I/O with cpu mosfets, I've got soo much going on in my head right now lol!!! I trust what you mean, once I get in things will definitely become clear and I will see what you all have been describing clear as day. Thanks Mkelliny

I watched a tear down video on the tube but didn't notice the northbridge heatsink? Now I know that it's there, I will make sure to keep an eye out!

I think that I am ready man, I am going to purchase the Fujipoly .5mm (3 sheets), TX-4, and IC Diamond. Hopefully, the on-site tech will do his thang and not maime my beast so that I can perform this delicate surgery by the end of the week and test it out before posting my results.

 

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see that silver ridged thing with a screw you cant see the whole thing its to the left of the CPU that is the NB Heatsink.