HELP: Heatsink LGA775 3.2GHz w/ Arctic Alumina = 75C!!

[G Q]

My LGA 540 CPU temperature runs at 44 to 50C without the AA. I wanted to lower my CPU temp so here's what I did:

I had to remove the HS thermal compund and replace it with Arctic Alumina. First, I removed the gunk from the HS using Isopropyl alcohol and wiped it clean with a coffe filter; I applied AA evenly (the the size of 1/2 grain of rice) using a plastic sandwich bag, then wiped it off with a clean coffe filter.

Afterwards, I cleaned the CPU with Isopropyl using Q-tips. I applied a very thin layer of AA onto the CPU surface. After all was done, I reset the HS onto the CPU (setting the stock HS AGAIN got me feeling a little worried).

When I rebooted my computer, I checked the BIOS temp and it read 75 Celcius! (I turned off my computer right away) My first thought was, maybe I didn't apply enough Alumina or is th HS partially touching the CPU? Is there anything I can double check on besides the two that's causing this tremendous high rise in the temperature? Did I messed up somewhere along the line? Thanks

GQ

 

[TRUMPHENT]

It sounds like your heatsink is not making full contact with the heatspreader surface. If you didn't remove the mainboard from the case it will be difficult to verify with human eyeball technology that you put the heatsink back on properly. I use a USB powered led on a wand to illuminate the socket from behind. If the heatsink isn't on right, light will shine through the gap.

 

[G Q]

Originally posted by: TRUMPHENT
It sounds like your heatsink is not making full contact with the heatspreader surface. If you didn't remove the mainboard from the case it will be difficult to verify with human eyeball technology that you put the heatsink back on properly. I use a USB powered led on a wand to illuminate the socket from behind. If the heatsink isn't on right, light will shine through the gap.

TRUMPHENT,

Luckily I have a removeable motherboard tray...

Anyhow, you are somewhat right. When I uninstalled the HS, the outer ridges of the HS was the only part making contact with the CPU. But, I did do the light trick beforehand; to the naked eye it apeared they were in contact =/.

I took the chance to remove and reapply the Arctic Alumina once again, but this time with a little more to ensure full contact with the CPU. I rebooted; it was still 75C! Arghh!! /cry Oh, what have i done... I shoud've kept the stock thermal pad when my CPU was at 40 C >_<

Does anyone have any other suggestions before I deliberately fry this CPU?

 

[TRUMPHENT]

Here is an article that sounds like it was written with you in mind.
Article

Inside is a link for buying replacement Intel Thermal Pads.
Replacement Pad

Arctic Alumina may not be the way to go according to the article.

You apparently are not alone in this dilema.

Good luck!

 

[G Q]

Originally posted by: TRUMPHENT
Here is an article that sounds like it was written with you in mind.
Article

Inside is a link for buying replacement Intel Thermal Pads.
Replacement Pad

Arctic Alumina may not be the way to go according to the article.

You apparently are not alone in this dilema.

Good luck!

TRUMPHENT,

Thanks for the additional information! I found the additional information here from THG regarding the stock thermal pad. Both Intel and THG recommended using the thermal stock pad that's already on the HS. Thanks for all your help!

BTW, do you think Intel will cover the warranty for the thermal pad and replace me a new one? It only cost $1.00 but the S+H is worth more than the item!

Thanks again

GQ

 

[TRUMPHENT]

Is the shipping and handling worth more than your cpu? Asking Intel to cover the cost of shipping of a thermal pad is a fight I would run away from and not to. I think you voided your warranty.

The THG article is where I found the link for the replacement pads. Now, after havng read about them I might get a few myself. They seem to be really effective. Might even be better than the famous name brand silver goo.