Replace GPU HSF TIM With AS5 Or Ceramique?

[sitalchauhan]

I am planning to replace the HSF on the 8800gtx with the thermalright HR-03.
I have got a tube of Arctic Silver 5 still half full and havnt finished it yet.
However, I know that it is slightly conductive, and have seen people use Arctic Céramique on the GPU die.

I was just wondering, is it risky using AS7 for thermal interface material on a gpu as it conducts slightly, so I should get some Céramique instead, or is it perfectly safe?

Thanks,
Sital

[Templar87]

As you can put AS7 on your CPU I can't see any reason why you wouldn't be able to put it on your GPU die. I've used AS5 (also slightly conductive) on GPU's before with no problems, and haven't heard of anyone else having any

[sitalchauhan]

ok thanks. When using AS5 for CPU's, I usually do the method where you put a small pear size blob in the middle, then push the heatsink ontop to make it spread out evenly.

I was just wondering, is this method of application ok for the gpu aswell or is it better to use the method where you spread it out evenly using a blade?

[Templar87]

Personally, I always spread it out as you cannot guarantee the amount you put on will cover the die or will be too much and squirt out the sides. I'm sure someone else would tell you differently though

[roorooroo]

I always spread it evenly and very thinly..usually with a credit card edge.

[sawyen]

Well, just make sure you dont wipe the whole die + the resistors around it.. do that = instant dead card..

[roorooroo]

It would be interesting reading anyone's temps differences using AS5 opposed to the usual thermal paste?

[sitalchauhan]

Am I right in thinking that the 8800gfx core is covered by an IHS? Here is a pic:
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q...man/8800_3.jpg

It looks just like the same as a CPU IHS.
So I just put a small amount in the middle of the ihs, spread it out evenly using a credit card/blade across the whole ihs surface, and then put the aftermarket heatsink on?

Thanks,
Sital