Where do you put thermal paste on PS4?

Where to Place Thermal Paste on a PS4: A Complete Guide

If you’ve experienced overheating issues with your PlayStation 4 (PS4) console, then applying thermal paste to key components may be a necessity. Thermal paste is designed to improve heat dissipation from critical components, reducing heat stress and prolonging the console’s lifespan. But how do you apply this gel-like substance, and more crucially, where do you put it on the PS4?

Identify the Components Requiring Thermal Paste

Before diving into the application process, take a moment to understand what components on your PS4 require thermal paste. Chief among these is the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The GPU is responsible for handling graphics processing and renders a significant amount of heat. Applying thermal paste between the GPU and heat sink (if present) enhances heat dissipation and increases overall system performance.

Here are the components on a PS4 that benefit from thermal paste application:

• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• Intel Xeon Processor

Where to Apply Thermal Paste on the PS4 CPU

To apply thermal paste to the CPU:

• Locate the Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS).
Place thicker, non-conductive surfaces (such as a plastic card) alongside the IHS to minimize thermal paste from spilling over the edges.

• Apply a small, centimeter-sized dot directly onto the IHS center.

• Spreading the thermal paste thinly, use a tapered, heat-safe tool (e.g., a credit card with a rounded edge) for uniform distribution. Make sure not to cover excessive surface area, as unevenness can impede air circulation.

When Spreading Thermal Paste

Apply thermal paste using clean, dry hands to eliminate oils and dirt. Never touch the CPU, other components, or wires if your hands are contaminated; static electricity damage may be the result.

Minimize thermal paste movement near electrostatic sources (e.g., carpet, plastic mats).
Keep tools’ handles away from direct touch to prevent electrostatic buildup.

What To Do If You Encounter issues During Application

1. Incorrect paste spread direction: If paste appears ‘stretched’ or warped, start again.
2. Incorrect quantity paste application: Apply the full amount; avoid partial dots or excessive spread.

These precautions will help prevent accidents and ensure successful application without damaging your PS4:

• Prevent skin contact with other components to maintain surface cleanliness.
• Use dry, non-static-producing surfaces throughout the process.
• Test static-safe zones for nearby tools.

• Monitor your work, watching for dust particles drifting onto the components when applying thermal paste. To avoid contamination, create dust-free areas by turning lights off, sealing surfaces near workstations, and not smoking near work.

If you encounter difficulties determining where to place thermal paste on your PS4 due to a lack of applicable experience, it’s never a bad idea to perform additional research, such as reading online tutorials, discussing the topic with professionals who have worked with the said component, or following best practices outlined in other professional, trustworthy sources.