Just got i5 in mail, what are the grey strips on heatsink?

[thcdaily]

Hi guys, I've been using this forum to build me a new pc for around 1000. I was planning on building it in the 800 range, but I wanted cooler stuff heh.. I just received my processor. I5 3570k. When I took it out the box, I noticed the heat sink has little grey strips on it. I'm guessing this is the thermal compound, but I have a few questions.

Do I need to spread this compound around? It looks as if I were to just put it on the cpu it wouldn't spread evenly.

I have some white thermal grease that I used to fix a few xboxes, all breaking again of coarse. I know the white grease is not preferred, but will it do the job till I can buy some more?


Side note, I plan on buying an aftermarket heatsink, just not enough cash atm.

 

[xa376]

Not sure exactly what that is. However If it is thermal paste which is what I would suppose it is then when it is put on the CPU the paste will spread out evenly. This is normal for thermal paste not to cover the entire CPU chip until installation of heatsink.

 

[thcdaily]

Alright man, thanks for the speedy response! I just wanted to make sure I didnt have to spread it or anything. I don't wanna ruin a new processor right out of the box

 

[rds1220]

It's pre-applied thermal paste. Don't touch it ot spread it. Just clamp the heatsink down and turn the computer on. The presure from claming and the heat will evenly spread the thermal paste.

 

[COLGeek]

It's pre-applied thermal paste. Don't touch it ot spread it. Just clamp the heatsink down and turn the computer on. The presure from claming and the heat will evenly spread the thermal paste.

Yep. This is the right answer.

 

[amuffin]

Read the intel stock cooler guide for all your questions!

 

[thcdaily]

Best answer selected by thcdaily.