Updating thermal paste for Intel stock cooler
Updating thermal paste for Intel stock cooler
Hi, your questions about changing the thermal paste on your i7 6700 non K with an Intel stock cooler are important. 1) You can use normal 70% alcohol to remove the paste, though isopropyl might work too. 2) A paper towel should suffice for removal—no special tool needed. 3) Use a line or dot pattern when applying the new paste for even coverage.
I’d go with isopropyl yes. Others might work too, but it’s not especially costly or difficult to locate. I’d secure one... Paper towel is acceptable. The line has proven to be superior, though only slightly so. Which subject on ghat prompted you to consider altering the thermal compound? The material that comes with Intel heatsinks is actually quite good quality.
I usually rely on ethanol. Occasionally I switch to window cleaner or acetone, but everything functions just fine.
The CPU is nearly at the end of its life and hasn't been replaced before. I thought a swap might be necessary since upgrades are common... Temperatures during stress tests usually stay between 65 and 70 degrees.
It doesn't really deteriorate much; it just lasts a lot longer than you'll own that PC. You don't need to switch it often—some require a bit of time to settle before they perform best. Also, a 65-70 in a stress test on a stock cooler is impressive. It's not worth the effort, cost, or wasting the paste.