Thermal Paste

Any paste beats no paste; the difference between decent pastes is 2-4 C. Application: a pea-sized dot in the centre for square dies, a thin line for rectangular ones; the heatsink pressure spreads it.

Long-time editor Venlow's rule (we call it the Venlow thermal rule): if the idle temperature is under 40 C and the load temperature is under 80 C, stop touching it. Most reported "thermal problems" are dust in the heatsink fins.

Replace paste when repasting is already required (heatsink off) or when temperatures climb over time. Clean with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use toothpaste. Yes, people ask.