cpu

[Vic 970]

Whilst replacing the psu with a larger unit, I decided to clean the cpu heatsink and fan which has not been done since I bought the pc.

the cpu is not accessible until the psu is removed, and then a plastic cover prevents the heatsink from being cleaned without removal.

I have done this, but appear to have disturbed a wax coloured substance between the top of the cpu and heatsink, is this a thermal compound ? there was not one on my last pc at this point.

[Abbadon]

yes, the will be your thermal grease (or compound, or paste, or goo). Sometimes this will be replaced by some sort of sticker on the bottom of the heatsink, which performes the same task.

I'm not too sure on this, others will have to verify, but I think it's best to re-aplie some fresh paste after you have removed the heatsink from the cpu. This to ensure a good, even spread of paste, which should lead to a good thermal transfer.

[pave_spectre]

Definitely best to reapply a thermal compound after disturbing it.

[Beta Geek]

Based on what I've read, it is best to use a solvent to clean the bottom of the heat sink before you reapply a thermal compound. You can use rubbing alcohol (99% pure is best).

According to the Artic Silver instructions, once a wax pad has been used, it will have melted into the microscopic imperfections in the surface of the heat sink that contacts the CPU core, and won't come out. So this would be a good time to lap the heat sink if you want to go through the effort.

I'm not sure about the best process to clean the CPU core itself.

[Budfred]

"I'm not sure about the best process to clean the CPU core itself."

Very carefully.....;) :D

You can use the alcohol to clean the CPU die too, but just be careful and avoid getting it on the body of the CPU as much as possible as well....