How do I remove old residue from a CPU chip?

Answer 1

lol, I turn my compressed air can upside down freeze it and scrape it off with my finger nail. I don't know I that i am recommending that. ;)

Answer 2

Make sure there is no power applied to the MB at the time. I make sure that I am the same potential as the chip by touching the power supply before getting near the cpu.

I usually use a dry soft cloth. I rub it off. You can use rubbing alcohol. It won't hurt it.

I use Arctic Silver Ceramique Thermal compound. You can get the instructions on how to apply and remove it at their website...

http://www.arcticsilver.com/arctic_silver_instructions_big2.htm


1. Arctic Silver thermal compound can easily be removed from hardware using the proper cleaners and tools. For general clean-up, a cloth or paper towel will work well. Intricate cleaning can be accomplished with Q-tip swabs. An old toothbrush can often get the compound out of crevices that other tools cannot reach.
The recommended cleaners are:

CPU Core:
ArctiClean 1 Thermal Material Remover followed by ArctiClean 2 Thermal Surface Purifier. If you do not have ArctiClean, use high-purity isopropyl alcohol or acetone and a bit of careful rubbing.
Do not use nail polish remover as it contains fragrance oils and other contaminants.
(If you use acetone, do a final cleaning with isopropyl alcohol.)

Heatsink:
ArctiClean 1 Thermal Material Remover followed by ArctiClean 2 Thermal Surface Purifier. If you do not have ArctiClean, use xylene based products (Goof Off, some carburetor cleaners and many brake cleaners.), mineral spirits or high-purity isopropyl alcohol.

Answer 3

Depending on the resdue you are talking about, it is not clear to whether the resdue was caused by water damage or other liquid substances. If so, water damage (rust) can not removed easily. However, if it is magnetalic dust use a simple feather broom to clean out of the surface. Be careful not to have static or carpet, which can build up static electricity around you. A hand wrist for static protection would be helpful..