Thermal paste or not to Thermal paste?

[TorQ21]

I am new to system building so this will probably be a very basic question to many of you. One of the many questions I have about this process is CPU cooling. Is there a differenc between a heatsink and a fan. Do I need to use a theraml plate or thermal paste? What exactly is thermal paste. I will be building two machines in the nest few weeks both with 750 Durons with the possibility of slight overclocking. What so I need for CPU cooling? Thank you very much for your time.

 

[Quad]

<< . Is there a differenc between a heatsink and a fan >>



yes. a heatsink is a unit made out of some kind of metal that sits on top of your chip. it's attached to the socket using clips. the heatsink has many fins that draw heat away from the cpu. the fan is literally a fan. it sits on top of the heatsink blowing air down onto it to cool the fins.

thermal paste is basically a goo that is spread onto the CORE of the chip. when spread thin and evenly, it aids in the transfer of heat from the core to the heatsink. arctic silver is the best thermal compound available and it will lower your temps by a few degrees.

for cpu cooling, get a good heatsink and a good fan. dont' forget to unlock your cpu if u want to overclock
hope that helps

 

[TorQ21]

How do I &quot;unlock&quot; the CPU?

 

[NightTrain]

clicky

 

[LoneWolf1]

To learn more about thermal paste, go here.

 

[TorQ21]

Thanks again for your help!

 

[NightTrain]

Good luck