CPU Overheat without thermal paste

[marceljagielko]

I recently purchased a new Cpu, an intel core 2 quad q9550. I installed it into the computer, but I forgot to put in the fan + heat sink with thermal paste. I turned on the computer, and it ran fine for about 20 seconds, then it shut off. I turned it on again, and then the same thing happened. Later on, I noticed some light gray marks on the TOP of the cpu (not the bottom, which looks fine) Did I permanently damage the processor? Again, it only ran for two 20-30 second intervals, although the I ran it again right after it shut down. Finally, I was able to wipe off the gray marks. I'm worrying that this is a sign of permanent damage. Does anyone know anything about this? Thanks.

 

[USAFRet]

Permanent damage? Probably not. It probably shut itself down to prevent exactly that.

But do not turn it on again without a proper application of thermal paste between the CPU and cooler.

 

[bgunner]

I agree with USAFRet that the chance of damage is low. The Core 2 systems usually had a thermal shut down point to try to prevent over heating damage. Thermal paste is cheap and able to picked up from multiple places so wait 1 day till the 26th and run out and get some. It is very important to have it to keep the CPU cool or it will shut down and/or cause damage if you keep turning it on with out thermal paste and the cooler.

Good luck and use the TIM and cooler.

 

[marceljagielko]

Alright, so the two times probably didn't hurt it permanently? Thanks so much. I won't turn it on again until I get the thermal paste on. Thanks.