Best method for applying Arctic MX-5 to CPU (Sandybridge 2500k)?

[zAndy1]

Hi,
Just doing my build and was wondering what the best method is for applying Arctic MX-4 to my CPU? Blob in the middle and let the cooler (Akasa Venom) spread it out or apply a thin layer to the whole CPU? Should I also apply a layer to the heatsink?

Cheers
Andy

 

[alex24]

Blob on the middle of the CPU, push the heatsink down on it to spread. Simple. That's the best way in my opinion, and most evidence supports that. Just get the right amount and you're fine.

 

[Ace Modder]

Arctic Cooling do not make an MX-5, however Mazda do

 

[Uvo]

Artic silvers own guide says a vertical line down the middle for the i5/i7's
this then gets spread out when you attach the heatsink

 

[zAndy1]

MX-4 sorry , right blob in middle it is, what about the cooler, any on the baseplate as well?

Cheers

 

[Stormar]

no just the cpu,but clean cpu and cooler plate first with some trim cleaner.

 

[alex24]

Nope, no need. That will more than likely create more air pockets, which you don't want.

 

[zAndy1]

no just the cpu,but clean cpu and cooler plate first with some trim cleaner.

Ah, ain't got any trim cleaner, is that really necessary?

 

[Stormar]

no not really,its down to personal preferance everyone does it differant.

 

[onelosttiger]

Ah, ain't got any trim cleaner, is that really necessary?

TIM cleaner.

 

[zAndy1]

Ok thanks, thought you only needed tim cleaner if the cpu had already had a heatsink and thermal paste on previously. Anyway I aint got any and have never used any before so gonna press on...

 

[Darkzy]

Tim clean leaves a residue or so i've been told never had a problem ... i personally just get the thermal paste and use a credit card (dead) to spread it that way i know its spread.. will try the blob and push method though

 

[alex24]

I use pure isopropyl alcohol to clean the CPU heatspreader and heatsink base thoroughly between applications.