"Travis King" wrote in message
news:ycc2g.937200$xm3.364560@attbi_s21...
I have the new Sempron and motherboard because I already ordered it three
days ago, but here's my question. My $40 Zalman heatsink instructions say
to spread the thermal paste on the CPU. I thought you were supposed to
just put a dab of it on on these CPU's and the pressure of the heatsink
would spread out the paste. Is this correct or should I follow the
directions and go ahead and spread the paste? Would it hurt anything if I
spread the paste? Thanks.


The idea is to get the thinnest coating over the chip. A thick layer
actually makes heat transfer worse. A firend who build pcs told me to put a
small blob on the chip, and then put a freezer bag over your finger and
spread it over the entire surface of the cpu. It should look more like its
been painted than a thick layer og grease. (this is the method I used on my
4400x2 and its idling at 28C and loaded at about 48C) I've heard of others
using a credit card or similar flat plastic card to spread a thin, even
layer.
The trouble with the blob and squeeze method is that it can leave a fairly
thick layer, and you cant guarentee its spread evenly and left a section
uncovered.
Zalman know their stuff, follow the instructions. (but try not to get your
fingerprints over the mating surfaces, hence using the bag)

Good luck,

J.
(PS, obviously follow earthing precautions before handling the cpu!!)