First time I've seen a stencil for thermal paste. Pretty slick. Also hoping the CPU bracket prevents any bending issues. Probably wasn't going to be an issue but for $7 worth it.
This is my main PC and last time I rebuilt it was 6 years ago. Not going for a huge rig as I don't game all that often. The RX 7600 is twice as fast as my previous GPU and I only paid $260 for it. If I can get another 6 years out of it that will be plenty.
Full specs:
- Intel Core i7-12700KF
- Gigabyte Radeon RX 7600 Gaming OC 8G
- MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4
- Thermaltake TOUGHAIR 510 180W TDP CPU Cooler
- G.Skill Ripjaws V 32GB
- dual Samsung 980 PRO 2TB
Thermal Paste is a delicate topic. But i think it is a bit too much. Thermal paste should only be used to create better contact between to uneven surfaces.
You will be fine tho. If nothing spills, all OK.
Even if it spills, if it's non-conductive it's just a mess to deal with the next time you pull the heatsink off. Just use gloves to handle it because it's a bitch to get thermal paste off your skin.
I find rubbing alcohol best for removing thermal paste from electronic components and toothpaste best for removing it from skin.
Thermal paste is often capacitive rather than actually conductive. So it can build up a charge and then release it all at once.
Also, won't this create bubbles when it squishes? The hexagons will squish into circles and fill the gaps between them, but there will be nowhere for some of it to go, particularly the corners of the hexagons. One glob in the center will squish out evenly and there's no air to trap, which is why that's preferred. If OP spread this, it's fine. If they directly attach their heatsink though, it could be not ideal.
Basically, don't get fancy with your thermal paste. Just put a bit in the center and the pressure will spread it evenly.