How long should i wait after applying thermal paste?

[AcesTranquility]

Hi, i booted up my PC like 10mins after applying thermal paste... am i supposed to wait longer?

thanks

 

[Idontcare]

I take it you are English eh?

There is no minimum wait time. Assuming you properly installed the HSF after applying the TIM, the TIM is fully spread out and functional before you even press that power button.

Arctic Silver 5 takes time to gain maximum cooling effectiveness, per the manufacturer, but you must use your rig in order for this settling period to be carried out. (it relies on the thermal cycling)

Bit all other TIMs are ready to go once applied, and once your HSF is applied your computer is ready to go.

 

[Udgnim]

there is no wait period

run some CPU stress tests like OCCT to see if temperatures are in line with what you expect

 

[taltamir]

you don't need to wait at all... arctic silver takes 2 days to reach optimum values... but that is two days of USING THE COMPUTER, not of being off. And it only makes a few degrees difference anyways (no big deal)