How much thermal compound is needed?

[dejavo2]

I am building my first computer and i was wondering how much theremal compound do i need to put on the cpu in order to make a good contact withe heat sink? im getting the zalman cps9500. So please advice me how much is need, co si want to have a good connection between them both.

 

[Harvey]

Use a very thin coating. Thermal compound is intended to fill gaps and pits between your CPU and heatsink. Any more than needed for that actually impedes thermal transfer.

 

[Stoneburner]

Funny Sig Harvey.

 

[Bobthelost]

A third of a grain of rice is the offical answer.

I'm 99% sure i've put too much on, and am now waiting for some cleaning products to turn up so i can repair the mistake

 

[sjwaste]

Rubbing alcohol isn't a cleaning product anymore?

 

[Mogadon]

Yep, just use 90%+ rubbing alcohol and coffee filters to clean the surfaces. As far as i'm concerned getting anything else is a waste of money.

 

[caz67]

Originally posted by: Harvey
Use a very thin coating. Thermal compound is intended to fill gaps and pits between your CPU and heatsink. Any more than needed for that actually impedes thermal transfer.

Yes, especially with AS5. I find using the generic paste, is actually better in my experience.