SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Technology Stocks : Advanced Micro Devices - Moderated (AMD)
AMD 198.12-5.2%Dec 17 3:59 PM EST
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: Pravin Kamdar who wrote (133688)9/24/2004 1:24:59 PM
From: Ali ChenRead Replies (3) of 275872
 
"It must have better thermal conduction than the heatsink"

The key term here is "the heatsink". Omission of further qualifier causes typical confusion and extremists ingnorant statements like "the heat spreader doesn't really help the die temperature".

Which heatsink, that is the question.

If we are talking about economically-effective heatsinks, they are typically made of extruded aluminum, and the copper slab makes a significant difference by "spreading heat" from localized source (die) and providing vastly more area for heatsink attachment, which allows for sloppier mount job (as mentioned by _eco_) and/or less expensive thermal interface, and simultaneously protects die corners from chipping.

If we are talking about all-copper custom-made monsters that may cost as much as the chip itself, then yes, the copper slab may be no different (assuming that the heatsink copper alloy is of the same thermal quality), and skipping the secondary thermal interface (between the spreader and sink) may actually help a degree or two.

Now you need to decide which case is more important to consider, a unique custom-made hobbist machine, or PCs produced in millions per week.

I hope this clears the confusion of Mr. DougSF and educates him a bit.

Regards,

- Ali
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News