Which method do you use. I just reapplied mine and used the line method. Normally I use the dot method but wanted to try something different. I know some people spread it, some don't. Just curious which method everyone here uses. This is interesting, maybe I will try the x method next.
I've only ever used the dot method to be honest, I'm much too paranoid when applying thermal paste to try anything else although the X method does look like the most effective. Nice link mate.
I have settled into a five dot method and I love the way it spreads when removed. As with all methods less is more and a modest little squish and twist, slow but even torquing (not to be confused with twerking !) of the cooler along with a wait period and re-torque as well as several on off cycles and final torquing and your set.
I use the dot method. If you want to experiment, use to small pieces of plexiglass and put some tim on one and put the other on top and see how it spreads. Saw someone do that on youtube.
Last edited by AddRAM; 28 Sep 2013 at 17:43.
I gotta ask, "What the heck does tim stand for?" Is that a typo? From reading the thread I learned you were asking about thermal paste but can't get a handle on what tim is.
I would also like to try spreading a thin layer but to me it wastes a lot of TIM and really how much if any cooling is being done at the outer edges? Plus it seems like I'm getting about 85-90% coverage after removing and inspection.
TIM = Thermal Interface Material
I also have never seen TIM used before. I'm getting older and learning.
My method is.
I lap in both the cpu and heat sink.
Then I use a small amount of compound and then spread it very, very thin using a credit card on both the cpu and cooler. You will see very little compound when done.
Then I use the line method as per this.
http://www.arcticsilver.com/pdf/appm..._line_v1.1.pdf
I check the tightness of the cooler every few days (hot and cold) for a couple of weeks.
I monitor the temps with a program that is on the taskbar every now and again.
If the temps are staying the same (good) I'm happy.
I never change the compound because of the time it has been installed. If the temps stay good the compound is still working.
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