Should I pick up artic silver for new build?

[blackrain]

I am putting together a new HTPC build. Getting a Phenom X3 720 BE and Biostar 790GX board from newegg. Will it come with thermal compound? If so, is it adequate? Or can I just skip this?

Also, is there a guide online as to how to apply to new processors like the 720?? I haven't done this in a long time

 

[zagood]

Newegg sells the retail box kit. Includes heatsink/fan/pre-applied TIM so you don't NEED it.

If you're not planning on overclocking, don't worry about it. If you do, you'll probably need a better heatsink anyway, which is usually a good time to pick up some thermal compound.

 

[Jhatfie]

Agreed, the thermal compound that comes slapped on the OEM heatsink is fine. Only grab some arctic silver if you are planning to mount up a aftermarket cpu cooler.

 

[Jray]

I'm getting ready to put together a new system with the PhII X3 720 myself. I also picked up the Xigmatek S1283 cooler (http://www.newegg.com/Product/...?Item=N82E16835233003), which came with some type of thermal compound. Should I use that or is it much better to buy Arctic Silver or some other compound?

 

[zagood]

Originally posted by: Jray
I'm getting ready to put together a new system with the PhII X3 720 myself. I also picked up the Xigmatek S1283 cooler (http://www.newegg.com/Product/...?Item=N82E16835233003), which came with some type of thermal compound. Should I use that or is it much better to buy Arctic Silver or some other compound?

Good info here (see this page too)

 

[supertle55]

If your aftermarket cool comes with a thermal compound, stick with that.

 

[garkon8]

I did an experiment a couple of years ago, and the Artic silver paste dropped my temps 3-4 degrees versus the OEM gunk. But, if your not overclocking, save the dough$