stock P4 HSF

[Jester666]

What's better, to leave this thin layer on or remove entirely and clean.

I'll be using arctic silver 3.

 

[Spikey217]

Don't mix them. If you plan to use AS3, clean the pad off.

 

[Jester666]

how good, or not, is the pad? If performance is OK, I may not bother cleaning it off.

 

[jhurst]

Like spikey said....one or the other. If you are planning on using AS3 (which I recommend, but I also recommend a better HSF).....you will want to COMPLETELY remove the thermal pad,....and then really polish the base to a smooth finish (lapping).

 

[Spikey217]

The pad works fine. IMO, If you want to use the stock cooling, leave the pad on. Less of a hassle.

 

[Jester666]

Yeah, I was really thinking about the "hassle factor". I would go through the trouble if temps would be significantly better.

I'll probably get a new HSF later. What would you guys recommend for the P4?

I've got a SLK900A on my AMD rig which I like a lot, but I'm considering a Zalman 7000cu since it's quieter.

 

[Spikey217]

The SLK/SP can be as quiet as a Zalman. It all comes down to what fan you choose.

For now, just leave the pad on the stock sink.

 

[jhurst]

I would recommend the Zalman, quieter, looks better, cheaper ($30 compared to $52 + fan), easier to install. And, in every test, it hangs right in there with the SP-94, which was only marginally better.

 

[beatle]

If you ever plan to replace the heatsink, remove the stock pad and use grease. Trying to clean one off that has already been used is quite a bit of work.

 

[Jester666]

OK guys thanks for the suggestions