F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop Is a new CPU contact frame required?

Is a new CPU contact frame required?

Is a new CPU contact frame required?

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Atomic_Spray
Member
50
02-11-2022, 02:22 AM
#1
Hello, you're setting up a system with a 13600k and a Z690 motherboard. I found online that the locking mechanism on these boards can be faulty, so some recommend using a contact frame. Is this really important and does it make a big difference? As someone new to building, I'm aware there are risks if the screws aren't tight enough. I don’t want to risk damaging anything.
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Atomic_Spray
02-11-2022, 02:22 AM #1

Hello, you're setting up a system with a 13600k and a Z690 motherboard. I found online that the locking mechanism on these boards can be faulty, so some recommend using a contact frame. Is this really important and does it make a big difference? As someone new to building, I'm aware there are risks if the screws aren't tight enough. I don’t want to risk damaging anything.

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murderman25
Member
168
02-11-2022, 03:57 PM
#2
It's not essential. A good cooler should suffice. I'm using a 12900k and Z690 board. I opted for a contact frame, but it didn't show much difference (my chip appeared intact). When I applied thermal paste, the biggest temperature improvement came from using a voltage regulator. You see, many PCs with 12th and 13th gen chips can run without contact frames—just a way to add some breathing room if you're worried about heat. If you're not confident with the setup, I wouldn't recommend it, as it's unnecessary.
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murderman25
02-11-2022, 03:57 PM #2

It's not essential. A good cooler should suffice. I'm using a 12900k and Z690 board. I opted for a contact frame, but it didn't show much difference (my chip appeared intact). When I applied thermal paste, the biggest temperature improvement came from using a voltage regulator. You see, many PCs with 12th and 13th gen chips can run without contact frames—just a way to add some breathing room if you're worried about heat. If you're not confident with the setup, I wouldn't recommend it, as it's unnecessary.

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Ranger_Dunn
Junior Member
14
02-12-2022, 08:07 PM
#3
I’m planning to use an AK620 cooler too, so based on your thoughts I should be okay without it. I’ll probably assemble my PC without it, and if I spot any thermal issues later, I can revisit the decision.
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Ranger_Dunn
02-12-2022, 08:07 PM #3

I’m planning to use an AK620 cooler too, so based on your thoughts I should be okay without it. I’ll probably assemble my PC without it, and if I spot any thermal issues later, I can revisit the decision.