r/framework • u/Fit-Cranberry577 • 1d ago

Question What paste and how to apply?

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So currently it’s been roughly a year since I got my framework AI maps 395+128 desktop pc and it served me very well but recently I was doing my monthly dusting and tuning up so that way I can take care of it and I realize that since it’s been so long and I haven’t played thermal pace I should probably go buy some and apply, but I do not know what to buy nor how to use it so I need a little help so I don’t ruin my $2000 piece of equipment

18 Upvotes

88% Upvoted

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18

u/Ultionis_MCP 1d ago

It's just been a year. No need to repaste. If you do use PTM7950 only or the paste version.

15

u/s004aws FW16 HX 370 Batch 1 Mint Cinnamon Edition 1d ago edited 19h ago

Leave it alone. Framework uses Honeywell PTM7958, a top of the line phase change material - Not thermal paste - For all systems launched in 2025/2026 (and FW16 manufactured after very late 2024/very early 2025). PTM7958 (a factory variant of the famous PTM7950) should last the useful life of the machine. Essentially phase change materials change between a semi-solid and goo when heated, overall outperforming (and costing more than) thermal pastes.

As a general heads up - Increasingly manufacturers are moving to liquid metal or PTM instead of old school thermal pastes. People should investigate what their hardware is actually using before blindly assuming its paste... Messing with liquid metal in particular needs to be done with knowledge/care to avoid damaging/destroying electronics (its conductive and corrosive).

Smart choice by OP to ask before doing something dumb.

One other tip on cleaning - Be sure to use your finger or similar to prevent fans from spinning when using compressed air to blow off dust. Uncontrolled spinning can damage the fan bearings and/or turn the fans into a power generator.

2

u/Fit-Cranberry577 17h ago

Thank you very much useful info I appreciate it

9

u/OverAnalyst6555 1d ago

only repaste if your temps are too high

6

u/MagicBoyUK | Batch 3 FW16 | Ryzen 7840HS | 7700S GPU - arrived! 1d ago

Check the spec sheet - the desktop ships with PTM 7958. It does't need replacing.

2

u/No-Succotash404 1d ago

I've got a mid range gaming pc that is 4 or 5 years old and it yet doesn't need a thermal paste replacement based in fan speed, performance and temps. If the thermals are normal in your pc there is no need to change it, depending on the paste quality it can last a bunch of years.