CPU Thermal Paste Help

[BrianPCNoob]

I was taking my CPU out of the box, and when I picked up the fan, I accidentally touched the bottom, and removed some of the grey paste. I haven't intentionally removed any, or cleaned it off thoroughly-- am I still OK to use it, or do I need new thermal paste?

 

[davcon]

As long as it was a minimal amount i think you're ok.
If it was alot,then you need new paste.

 

[BrianPCNoob]

Well, it was about 1 fingers worth. ( a bit like a fingerprint) but the majority of it is still covered.

 

[BrianPCNoob]

Alright, great! Had me freaked out. Thanks alot!

 

[davcon]

Well, it was about 1 fingers worth. ( a bit like a fingerprint) but the majority of it is still covered.

Should be fine,i've done the exact same thing once.
Installed the unit and temps were fine.

 

[clutchc]

Keep an eye on temps for awhile when running CPU intensive tasks. After you've had the processor for awhile and the thermal paste has 'broken in', run Prime95 and watch the temps to see if they stay in safe levels. Technically, one should never contaminate the HSF/CPU surface with oils from your skin.