Damaged Ryzen 3950 IHS
Damaged Ryzen 3950 IHS
I have a buddy with a 3950 chip that has damage on the IHS. We're trying to decide what to do. We're considering using a rockit cool copper IHS, even though they're for Intel parts, or maybe getting a budget AM3/AM4 dual-core CPU and salvaging the IHS. What do you think?
We're discussing various levels of damage. It could be a minor scratch, a small dent, or even a missing section. In severe cases, there might be a scorched area or a complete chunk missing. The IHS is permanently attached to all Ryzen processors, meaning removing it demands significant heat and precise handling. Mixing IHSs isn't possible—they're designed for specific chip generations. The silicon used in Intel and AMD systems differs, affecting replacement compatibility. Coolers may struggle due to differing sizes and heights. Visual examples would help clarify the situation. If it's just a scratch or a small dent, it shouldn't affect performance. Even minor surface imperfections won't cause major issues. Thermal paste is intended to compensate for any slight thermal transfer loss. Have you considered trying the chip in a cooler first before proceeding?
deep marks, almost like a gouge now. It seems someone used an ice pick. I’ll request photos next time I see him. The soldered IHS will be tough to remove, but I’ve seen Neus and Debaur handle it well. I’m hoping a budget AMD dual-core IHS will work, though. The height difference can be fixed by sanding the IHS down. Debaur had to do that because liquid metal takes up less space than solder, and the IHS wasn’t making solid contact on the CPU.
To make such deep marks that affect performance suggests a major mistake with the components or pins. It's hard to give advice without knowing the details, removing an AMD CPU is tough and dangerous.
considered going for a smoother finish but the marks are quite severe. probably won't succeed. might remove too much of the IHS details. the pins remain intact. we're aware of the chance of losing the board. he acquired the CPU cheaply and is comfortable with that risk. no effort to persuade him otherwise. just checking if investing in another AMD CPU for the IHS would actually be viable.
If you're in the US, I have a Ryzen 1200 IHS plate available for you. Let me know if you're interested in my PM box.
I’d like to capture some images first so we can understand the situation better. Text won’t convey it as clearly as a picture would. Once we have the visuals, we can proceed from there.
I understand pictures would help, but it'll take some time before I can get them. The appearance won't really matter since he's already decided what to do. He'll either sell it in its current form or swap the IHS. He prefers the swap because he expects limited value from the original, but it could yield a good profit if done right. I probably need to message shrimp about the Ryzen 1200 IHS before investing too much.