How long does a thermal paste live on a video card and when is it time to sound the alarm
Do not rush to disassemble the PC: experts called the real life of the cooling composition and the main signs that your video card needs help.
Thermopaste is an inconspicuous but critical element of a computer’s cooling system. It fills in the microscopic irregularities between the graphics chip and the radiator, ensuring efficient heat removal. But like any material, it degrades over time.
The publication BGR, based on the opinion of specialized specialists, announced the real life of this component. Conventional thermal paste at standard loads retains its properties about three to five. More expensive and high-quality compounds can last seven to ten years without losing their effectiveness.
How do you know if the pasta is dry? Pay attention to three warning signs:
• A sharp increase in temperatures under load (in heavy games or when rendering).
• Video card fans begin to work at maximum speeds and make a lot of noise.
• Performance drop (trottling) or sudden departures and system reboots.
The age of the video card in itself is not a reason to replace the thermal interface. If the temperature is normal, and the PC is stable, you should not climb inside. Experts emphasize: most often the cause of overheating is banal dust that clogged the ribs of the radiator. Therefore, the first thing you need to carefully clean the cooling system from contamination.
If dust cleaning did not help, and the temperature continues to rise, it is time to think about replacing the paste. However, experts warn: self-disassembly of the video card (especially the removal of the cooling system) requires experience and accuracy. One awkward movement can damage the chip’s crystal or tear off small components on the board. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this procedure to a service specialist, so as not to turn a small upgrade into an expensive repair, writes Lenta.ru.
