9800gt tim

[ScottALot]

Hey, I'm replacing the TIM on my 9800GT with some Shin Etsu and I've run into something. Do I replace or reuse the thermal tape? If I need to get replacement stuff, where do I get it from?

 

[bomberboysk]

Those are thermal pads, not tape. Thermal pads can be reused pretty effectively, others here will argue that they cannot be, but the only time you really NEED to replace a thermal pad is when changing coolers(eg- stock cooler to full cover waterblock). The main reason behind this is the memory chips themselves do not create a whole lot of heat, so 100% best thermal transfer is not totally necessary for optimal performance.

Thermal pads can be purchased here:
http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ekwathpadbig.html
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/9...x_30mm_-_5_Pack_HSFPHASECM.html?tl=g8c127s255
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/9...hermalright_HR-07_-_2_Pack.html?tl=g8c127s255
Personally, i reuse the thermal pads on my gpu's.

 

[ScOuT]

I am the one that will argue to replace them If you are going to do it...do it right

I would recomend replacing the thermal pads. I have taken apart many graphics cards and it seems like you always have one or two pads that are all messed up. They get compressed when the card is put together. When you take it apart...they are smashed and loose their form. This reduces the thermal properties when you reuse the same pads.

It can be a little tricky putting new ones ones on...use a razor blade and a mirror. Try not to damage the top or bottom surface when cutting and installing them.

http://www.frozencpu.com/cat/l3/g8/...terface_Materials-Thermal_TapePads-Page1.html

 

[ScottALot]

I don't know... I already replaced it... and it went from 83C to 79C and I think the TIM is still spreading. I'll definitely replace the pads on my 5850s, though, thanks for the suggestion!