Checked the processor, it looks like it's been harmed. I haven't run any tests yet... what are your concerns?
Checked the processor, it looks like it's been harmed. I haven't run any tests yet... what are your concerns?
I have chosen to return the CPU.
Update 2: I asked for a return and received a full refund from the seller, who then told me to keep it. I also placed an order for a replacement from another seller.
(From my PCPartPicker discussion thread, copied carelessly)
I’m preparing to assemble some parts I purchased, one by one. The CPU arrived used and clearly damaged in two places. It was bought from eBay. The seller didn’t clearly describe or photograph the damage. They claimed it came from a working system. I haven’t contacted them yet about this, but I’ll if there are any problems.
Here are the photos:
https://imgur.com/a/rCnjXIV
View: https://imgur.com/a/rCnjXIV
Do you think it’s already dead, or could it still work? Are there any concerns I should be aware of? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
I’m planning to build this system in a few days, depending on when the last part arrives.
Also, regarding thermal paste—do I need to use it, or should I install the cooler to test by booting into BIOS? I don’t have any IPA or tools for cleaning the paste, nor extra paste if I need to remove the CPU and cooler. I was hoping I could just mount the cooler without paste and apply it later if everything functions. Is that possible?
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Return the processor.
Not only is the corner damaged, but I think I see some sort of an anomaly some 8-10 pins north.
If you have issues in the future, you will always wonder if it is the cpu.
Lastly, a bottle of 92% alcohol should be in your tool kit for working with builds.
And, some sort of paste to re apply.
" You need to have money to afford to buy used"
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
The CPU came in used but with clear signs of damage in two places.
I haven’t contacted the seller yet about this, but I’ll if there are any real problems.
If I were you, I’d start a return or refund process.
For testing purposes, it’s fine to place the heatsink directly on the processor’s IHS, but over time you’ll need to clean off the old thermal paste with isopropyl alcohol. This prevents bubbles or uneven spots that could affect performance.
Otherwise, you might end up in another thread asking why your temperatures are poor.
My final tip: avoid shortcuts. Being thorough now saves you from repeated troubleshooting later and helps you enjoy your build more.
It seems like the item might not be in good condition, though the pins look undamaged. If this chip was bought at a fair price, I’d likely return it for the description mismatch and get a refund to purchase another one without issues. It’s probably safe to test it, as they might be honest about its working state. You can run CPUs without a cooler for short periods, but it’s not advised—it will likely overheat and shut down quickly. I agree with that, just place the cooler lightly on top of the CPU; it should keep things cool enough in the BIOS. Prices for this part in the US range from 70 to 91% off alcohol, costing between $1.50 and $3, which is minimal after buying a new system. You can usually find it at pharmacies or grocery stores. If you have any hand sanitizer nearby, it could also work since it’s alcohol-based, though it may contain other ingredients that affect its quality.
Return the processor.
Not only is the corner damaged, but I think I see some sort of an anomaly some 8-10 pins north.
If you have issues in the future, you will always wonder if it is the cpu.
Lastly, a bottle of 92% alcohol should be in your tool kit for working with builds.
And, some sort of paste to re apply.
" You need to have money to afford to buy used"
Thank you all for your replies thus far. I've chosen to return everything now. Also, I purchased some IPA and thermal paste as you recommended. Thanks again, everyone.