This paste is usually made of zinc oxide and silicone and it is characterized by a high thermal conductivity. There are also products with liquid metal that have a higher thermal conductivity. The main need is to dissipate the CPU heat and transfer it to the surrounding air through the metal heatsink.
What is the difference between a thermal pad and thermal compound?
More About Thermal Paste Thermal paste, also known as thermal grease or heat sink compound, conducts heat in the same way as a thermal pad does. Another advantage is that with the ability to apply it as a thin layer, thermal paste can provide better thermal conductivity then the thicker pads.
What is the purpose of the thermal compound?
What is Thermal Compound and Why is it so Important? Also called thermal paste, thermal grease, or conductive grease, this compound is a heat-conductive substance that is applied between the heatsink and the device it’s meant to cool. It improves conductivity between the heatsink and the CPU.
What is meant by heat sink?
Definition of heat sink : a substance or device that absorbs or dissipates especially unwanted heat (as from a process or an electronic device)
How does a heatsink work?
Heatsinks work by absorbing heat from the CPU or GPU to which they are attached. As the CPU or GPU warms up, heat will transfer to these fins where it’s released using a fan. A fan is attached over the heatsink to circulate air. The fan runs in reverse, meaning it draws the hot air away from the CPU or GPU.
What’s better thermal paste or thermal pad?
Thermal paste or thermal grease adheres and solidifies after application. Thermal pads, on the other hand, consist of a sponge-like material or soft, rubbery material. Thermal paste is more durable and cheaper.
What is meant by heatsink?
A heat sink is a component that increases the heat flow away from a hot device. It accomplishes this task by increasing the device’s working surface area and the amount of low-temperature fluid that moves across its enlarged surface area.
What is the purpose of thermal paste compound between the CPU and heatsink?
Thermal paste, or some oily thermal interface material, is necessary because it fills in the microscopic imperfections that otherwise trap air particles between the CPU and the heatsink, preventing the CPU from properly cooling.
