CPU Shims for an Athlon?

[kjmcdonald]

Ok. So they're only like $4.50 but ar ethey worth getting?

What do they do other than make sure the HSF pressure is spread across the whole chip and not all in
one spot so the chip doesn't crack?

Do they do anything for heat transfer?

Do you put thermal transfer grease between the shim and the CPU? between the Shim and the HSF?
or only between the Chip and the HSF?

Anyone got any recommendations on a particular shim to get? or to stay away from?

Are they all basically the same? What ways do they differ? what things can they affect?

-Kyle

 

[Mikewarrior2]

Are they worth getting? really up to you...

Do they do anything for heat transfer? No. AT best, they do nothing. WCS, with grease/copper shim, it could harm cooling somewhat.

NO grease between the Shim and any contact surface. The shim doesn't contact a heat-producing source, so there's no need.

If you do get a shim, make sure it isn't too tall to prevent cpu to heatsink contact.



Mike

 

[Demonicon]

If you're adept at installing heatsinks then there is absolutely no need for a shim.

They are kind of a "failsafe" for the CPU core incase too much pressure is applied. If the heatsink is installed correctly it will not be an issue.

 

[Kingofcomputer]

AMD Athlon? Processor Build & Installation Guides
no shim here.

 

[Bovinicus]

I think it is worth it. Wether you're adept at installing them or not, I still feel a little safer using them than going without them. It's kind of like insurance, but it only costs $4.50, one time. I definitely like to use them if I am putting together a system for a friend or family member. If I destroy something I paid for that's one thing, but something someone else paid for...

 

[lenjack]

not needed, and may raise cpu temp.

 

[Scootin159]

If you are nervous about installing the heatsink, go ahead & get a shim. It will make you feel better, although still don't put too much faith in it. Also make sure you get a NON-CONDUCTIVE shim designed for your CPU type (XP or thunderbird). As about 10 ppl have said already, they do nothing for heat transfer though (but a farily reasonable shim won't damage heat transfer either).

 

[ST4RCUTTER]

Very valuable when installing a waterblock. There are no "safeties" when screwing down a bolt.