Does my CPU require (additional) thermal paste?

[Roads.zx]

I'm installing an Athlon II X3 440 (retail) on an ASUS M4A785-M board. The retail heat sync appears to already have a coating of gray paste on the bottom. Can someone confirm that I am good to go or do I need to add paste? Thanks; it's been awhile since my last build.

 

[HannibalX]

No, you won't need anything extra to run the CPU in its factory configuration which isn't to say you wouldn't benefit from using an aftermarket paste and removing the factory stuff.

 

[0roo0roo]

its good enough. chips don't run that hot these days and have nice heat spreaders.
unless you are overclocking to the extremes it really doesn't matter.

 

[coolVariable]

I found there to be too much paste when I got my last CPU.
I recently took the whole thing apart (because temps just seemed too high for me) ... took some of the paste off ... and now it is 10F cooler!!!

 

[0roo0roo]

yes and now your computer will last a theoretical 25 years instead of 20
but since its going to hit the dumpster in less than 10 it just doesn't matter

 

[corkyg]

Best practice is to remove old paste completely. The purpose of the paste is simply to fill in the microscopic pores in the metal surfaces so 100% contact can be achieved. It should be a very thin layer.