Did I Install Heatsink Correctly?

[k0rana]

I just built my first computer a few days ago, and it is up and running. The thing that worries me is my CPU/heatsink installation.

Here are my computer specs:
OS: Windows XP 32-bit
CPU: 3.0 GHz AMD Phenom II X4
Memory: 2 x 2GB DDR2 800 GSkill
Video Card: Sapphire ATI Radeon HD4870 1GB
HDD: Western Digital 1TB SATA
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA790X-UD4P 790X
PSU: CoolerMaster 700W
Case: Mid-Tower CoolerMaster
Optical Drive: an old PATA DVD-burner

I installed the heatsink that came with the Phenom II X4 CPU. I placed the heatsink on top of the CPU and connected the two latches on the sides, but I can't move the handle thing on the side by 180 degrees (which is what the manual said to do). I can only move the handle by about 90 degrees (but doesn't stay in that position because of gravity), and if I push it more, it feels like I'll break the CPU. So, I didn't do the last step in the manual. Also the picture of the heatsink in the manual does not match the one that I actually have (the handles look different). I also did not apply any thermal compound because the heatsink already has some pre-applied. Or am I supposed to apply some anyway?

Right after I built my computer, I ran a CPU temperature test. I turned on my computer and checked the CPU fan, case fans (2 of them that came with the case), and the video card fan. They all work. Then I left the computer on in BIOS mode for about 15 minutes. The max. system temperature was 42C, and the max. CPU temperature was 48C. Is this bad? Does my computer need more cooling?

I installed Windows XP and played an old computer game (Warcraft III) to see if the temperature would go higher. The max. CPU temperature was 47C. Then I played a more recent game (Left 4 Dead) for about 7 hours straight on the highest video settings and 1920x1080 resolution. The max. CPU temperature became 55C, and max. system temperature is still 42C.

In summary, here is what I'm asking:
1. Did I install the heatsink correctly?
2. My max. CPU temperature is 55C, and my max. system temperature is 42C. Is that bad?
3. Does my computer need more cooling?

[Khalil]

The AMD heatsinks are very easy to install, make sure that the latches are in place correctly on both sides of the mount and that they have actually locked in place then try and close the latch. They can be really tough to lock sometimes, you are not likely to break it.
Those temps you are suggesting are too high for an AMD CPU. They should always run 26-32 idle and never over 50 under load unless OCd.
If you can't get the latch on, seek professional help from a reputable computer outfit locally

[k0rana]

Originally Posted by Khalil They can be really tough to lock sometimes, you are not likely to break it.

Are you sure? It just feels like I have to apply so much pressure to get it to close. Is that normal? I saw a youtube video where closing the latch was effortless (but it wasn't the same heatsink I have). Or do I not know what "normal" is since this is my first time building a computer?

[Khalil]

Is it locking?

[k0rana]

Can you define locking?

[Khalil]

can you get the latch to go all the way to the other side?

[k0rana]

I can effortlessly move it by 90 degrees, but more than that I'm scared to try too hard in fear of breaking it.

[Khalil]

There has to be some resistance, its not going to lock in place effortlessly, make sure and push with your thumb on the whole latch and not on the tip of it but make sure first that the metal latches are correctly in place on the motherboard mount.

[k0rana]

Ok, I'll try it when I get home.

Edit: I managed to move the latch in the locked position. However, there are no differences in the temperatures.

[alanebro82]

Did you move the heatsink a bunch or take it on and off while trying to get it to work?

If so, you will need to clean off all the thermal paste and apply your own, as you most likely ruined the stuff that came pre-applied. (No biggie though, as the stuff is under 10 bucks)

[Alexjfinch]

I would still apply some compound - just for peace of mind

I used to use some stuff called Artic Silver? - not sure if its around anymore, used to be really good, and messy! haha

[k0rana]

Originally Posted by alanebro82 Did you move the heatsink a bunch or take it on and off while trying to get it to work?

Oh, that is probably why. I'll try to re-apply the thermal compound. What's the proper way to clean off the existing thermal compound?

[glc]

91% isopropyl alcohol. Do not overapply the new compound, all you need is a paper-thin layer.

[k0rana]

I use the isopropyl alcohol on both the CPU and heatsink? Just making sure; I don't want to mess up anything.

[glc]

Yes, you have to clean off the compound from everything it's on.

[alanebro82]

I actually did that on my first build too; I think it's quite common for "noobs" ;o)

Simply get a nice, lint-free cloth (old T-Shirt works great!) and dip it in the rubbing alcohol. Then rub the heatsink and CPU until both are clean.

Next, add about a pea-size dab right in the center of your CPU and clamp the heatsink down. The pressure applied from the heatsink to the CPU should properly spread the thermal compound around.

[glc]

A pea-sized dab is too much.

http://www.arcticsilver.com/pdf/appi..._quad_wcap.pdf

[Khalil]

Originally Posted by glc A pea-sized dab is too much. http://www.arcticsilver.com/pdf/appi..._quad_wcap.pdf

with that much it will be seeping from the CPU onto the motherboard. You need about the size of a grain of precooked grain of rice at the most.

[k0rana]

So, I applied new thermal compound to my CPU. The result? The idle CPU temperature is about 43C (from 47C). No where near 32C.

[glc]

How thick did you put it on? What compound did you use?

[k0rana]

I used Dynex from Best Buy. I used a paper thin coating distributed evenly. I also did a method where you apply some thermal compound on the middle of the CPU and let the heatsink smush it evenly. But both methods made no difference.

[Khalil]

When you get a chance order this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16835100007
it will drop you temp but make sure and clean everything again. Remember grain of uncooked rice in the middle, no need to spread it, the heatsink will do it for you.

[glc]

I belive the Dynex compound is essentially the same stuff as AS5.

[k0rana]

Originally Posted by glc I belive the Dynex compound is essentially the same stuff as AS5.

Will AS5 lower the temperature by a significant amount? If not, I don't think there's a reason to buy it.

[glc]

Probably not - maybe 3C at the most.

[Alexjfinch]

Ah so Artic Silver is still about then, used to be good stuff when I was building.

FYI, I never used the heatsink/fans that came with the processors, I always bought another make. I bought one once for my sister's machine, heatpipe technology and all that, to be honest, the best purchase I ever made, the core was running a lovely 30C and the fan was completely silent - I believe that was a coolermaster.