Question about wiping cpu

[Enzim8]

Hi, I recently just took an i3 out of a computer that I don't even use anymore and I kind of wiped the paste off with a paper towel ._. It was pretty much useless to me but just in case I was wondering If I basically rendered it useless?

 

[synphul]

Not if you wiped the metal cover (ihs). It's fine to wipe off thermal paste and a paper towel won't hurt it. If you plan to use it again I'd suggest going over it with a paper towel or preferably a coffee filter (lint free) and some isopropyl rubbing alcohol. That will remove the rest of the paste and any residue and dries clean/evaporates. Paper towels are fine for getting most of the thermal paste off, the only issue is they shred easy and leave little bits behind.

 

[Enzim8]

Not if you wiped the metal cover (ihs). It's fine to wipe off thermal paste and a paper towel won't hurt it. If you plan to use it again I'd suggest going over it with a paper towel or preferably a coffee filter (lint free) and some isopropyl rubbing alcohol. That will remove the rest of the paste and any residue and dries clean/evaporates. Paper towels are fine for getting most of the thermal paste off, the only issue is they shred easy and leave little bits behind.

Thanks for the reply. I was just wondering because I'm not sure if I want to spend another $100 on a new cpu when I have an old one laying around. Because im building a new pc for college

 

[kyzarvs]

Hi, I recently just took an i3 out of a computer that I don't even use anymore and I kind of wiped the paste off with a paper towel ._. It was pretty much useless to me but just in case I was wondering If I basically rendered it useless?

NOT RECOMMENDED but I used (2003-2005ish) to regularly scrub the paste off CPU's in the sink with hot soapy water...

Always left them to dry for several days before using, but never had one break - they are surprisingly tough little things

 

[dudeman509]

Rubbing alcohol and Q-tips works great for taking the thermal paste off chips.