Question on (Noctua) aftermarket CPU cooler

[Blueprint]

I'm installing the Noctua NH-U9B over an AMD 1055T.

Two questions:

1. Before installing the heatsink over the CPU, is it better to apply the thermal compound on to the bottom of the heatsink or onto the CPU?

2. AMD manual says warranty is void unless you use their garbage included fan. Has anyone ever found this to be an issue when using an aftermarket fan instead?

Thanks!

 

[TemjinGold]

1. I apply on the cpu as that's easier to insure its in the right place. Don't know if that's "better."

2. How would AMD know which fan you used?

 

[zagood]

There's a few different ways. For the most part you apply to the CPU lid.

Review of different methods:
http://benchmarkreviews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=170&Itemid=1

 

[Henry Chinaski]

There are a lot of ways, but in my opinion, the best way to do it is this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7rPqCvCt0g

 

[DrMrLordX]

It really depends on which TIM you're using. The stuff I'm using should be applied to both the CPU's IHS and the base of the HSF. The x23 I was using before only needs to be applied to the CPU's IHS.