Do I need to clean new CPU and new cooler prior to install

PCSharkey

I seen linus cleaning the CPU and cooler in a fresh build, I unfortunately cannot find 99% isopropyl alcohol anywhere for a decent price or in a decent time frame, I have 70% alcohol wipes but i'm afraid about the water content or the apparent impurities they leave.
If you could help me out that would be great.
Thanks

Redfox25

Try a pharmacy

PCSharkey

Redfox25 wrote: »

Try a pharmacy

I've tried a few, one can order in a 5 litre that costs 30 quid but the rest don't sell 99% percent

challengemaster

I think you're worrying too much. You're not trying for the world overclocking records - you'll be fine. Majority of people won't clean a brand new CPU cooler out of the box or the CPU.

PCSharkey

I agree I am worrying I just do not want to mess this up, Thanks man

challengemaster

There's very little to fúck up, in all honesty. Stop worrying about cleaning brand new items and "impurities". Stick your build together and stop wasting time you could be enjoying it

Redfox25

If the cooler is out of the pc, go to your local filing station, go to the air for cars, blow some through the rads to dislodge dust.
Just dont damage the fins.

I wouldnt stress too much about it. As challenge said, unless your cooling under nitrogen and aiming for a record, it wont matter that much.
Get building and enjoy your rig.

Thorin

Umm, do NOT take your components to a garage and use the air hose there. The pressure is way too high, and could damage components. This is what compressed air canisters are for. You can find them in most hardware or PC components stores (Maplins, Woodies etc).

Maplins also sells a lemon-based CPU cleaner. I was a bit skeptical, but since I couldn't find isopropyl either, I gave it a shot. Used it when replacing heat sinks on two builds, actually works fine.

Redfox25

Cleaning the cooler on its own would be fine. Its a chunk of metal.
Now if its attached to your pc do not do that.
High pressure air will do it no harm as long as you dont impact the metal fins with the air hose.

imitation

Theres no need for a brand new cpu really, unless you put a big dirty smudge while installing it, its probably going to be cleaner if you just take straight out of the packet and put on your cooler rather than taking time to wipe it down as in the meantume dust will gather.

PCSharkey

Thanks lads, Yeah both CPU and cooler are going to be brand new, While while we on the topic whats the best way to clean the pcb of the graphics card would a can of air and a small paintbrush do the job or cotton buds?

PCSharkey

sugarman wrote: »

Only ever use a can of air, a brush or cotton buds can cause damage to components through static.

I seen a video on youtube some lad doing it, Is there a way to get rid of that thin layer of dust left even after I use the can

imitation

Careful with the cans of air too, they can leave off a jet of butane if they are upside down (or just cheap like one I have). Bit of a fire hazard really, plus its not nice seeing solvent dripping down your components.

Getting off hardened dust can be a bitch but I dont think there are many safe alternatives to air.

seraphimvc

nail polish remover works fine for me (i took some from whoever has it in the house).