cpu thermal compound 2

[Masterpjz9]

I bought Antec silver thermal compound because my amd xp cpu was running too hot. It says on the package not to mix 2 different kinds of thermal compound. What is the best (and safest) way to remove the old compound from the cpu and heatsink?

 

[Jakespeare]

I scrape them clean with the edge of a sharp knife, then I use Scotch Brite, or one of the sponges with that green scotch-brite material....... to polish the heat sink clean.
CPU, would just be a clean cotton cloth.

ALSO: If it's running that warm, add a CASE FAN, or TWO.
** If the case doesn't have the ability to accept TWO fans, then buy a SLOT-FAN. They can be had for about $6 at newegg.com

If the computer is in a computer desk, one of those little computer ovens, then the minimum thing to do is take the back off, and let air circulate.

 

[paparazi]

R U sure you have paste on the heatsink or is it one of those transfer pads?
Paste usually just wipes off where as pads have to be picked off and the remainder removed with a scowering pad.
Don't pollish the base! contrary to popular belief, the fine machining marks are their in order for the paste to pread and fill the surface inperfections for good thermal contact.
In an ideal world both the heatsink base and the raised contact billet on the CPU would be perfectly match machined to fit together without any air pockets for an ideal thermal transfer. In reality this is unachievable and thermal paste is the best second option.
Only the smallest amount of paste is necessary, applied to the contact area only.
Make sure the heatsink is replaced the correct way! it is possible on some setups (Athlons) to get it 180 degrees out causing the CPU to fry! Martin Vote if you found this post helpful please!!

 

[Masterpjz9]

could I use isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) like the package says or is this damaging?

 

[jisoo22]

Simple solution: nail polish remover. Use a q-tip, dab a little nail polish remover on it and wipe the compound off. It dries very quickly and leaves no residue.

 

[paparazi]

Maybe a little too much fuss over something so simple, Don't use anything but a cloth (something that the fibre's don't come off, cotton shirt material etc)
If you have to use a solvent apply it to the cloth, but honestly it's no big deal, just wipe it off, re-apply the new, and away U go.
If it's that hard stuff (thermal pad) U can pick most of it off using your finger nail. Martin Vote if you found this post helpful please!!

 

[Masterpjz9]

ok, i just don't want to leave anything on it that will burn or something.