NXT/NXT2 MPU CPU/Video card thermal paste

[Yoeddy1]

Hey guys,

Since a BB/BB2 MPU is really nothing more than a computer in terms of hardware, have any of you guys ever removed the heatsinks from the CPU or video card and applied fresh thermal paste?  Like any computer, I would imagine that this will eventually dry up and cause additional heat/wear and tear. 

Anybody done it or is anyone aware of anyone out here that performs this type of service?

Thanks,
Jason

[JDKMunch]

I've done this on all my mpu units -

You are correct the paste does dry out -

Your cpu temp should be between

90-115 degrees depending on the game.

When my paste was dried out my cpu was 140 degrees

[rickhunter]

I applied new paste on mine as well.

[cowboygames]

And it's easy to do. Use q-tips and electronic cleaner to remove the old compound and grab a tube of heatsink compound from Radio Shack. Pretty easy stuff

[Yoeddy1]

I haven't looked too deep yet, but are there any photos that show how to remove the heatsinks or how to access the areas that need the thermal compound replaced?

Did you guys just apply it to the CPU or the video card as well?

Thanks,
Jason

[rickhunter]

I've only do it for the CPU.  I just remove the heatsink and apply the thermal paste to the cpu chip (the part that makes contact with the heat sink).  Make sure you thoroughly clean the old stuff before you apply the new grease.  I've never done it to the video card (I probably should), other than the ones on the alpha 1's.

[Yoeddy1]

Does the heat sink just pull off or is it fastened down?

Jason

[rickhunter]

on the nxt2 mpu there are a pair of tension loaded clips that hold the heatsink into place.  It is pretty self-explanatory once you look at it closely.

[jonm287]

Just a warning if you attempt to repaste the video card as well: those plastic pins that hold the heatsink in place get brittle and the tabs are easy to break.  Be sure you've got a spare set before you try removing the originals.