i9-12900h (PCH - repaste it or not to repaste it?)

[kubossek88]

Hello everyone,
when I was taking all the heatsink apart (MSI GP76 Vector - [was factory sealed]), I noticed there was the thermal pad on the PCH (see the screenshots). Therefore, the question is: Should it be repasted or not?
I searched the entire internet and I couldn't find the satisfying answer as the opinions are divided.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Jakub.

[ArchieD_Intel]

Hi kubossek88,

Thank you for reaching out to the Intel Community Forum. To assist you better, could you please provide a bit more information?

• Have you noticed any performance issues or temperature spikes that prompted you to consider repasting the thermal pad?
• Are there any specific concerns about the current condition of the thermal pad, such as visible wear or damage?
• Have you checked the manufacturer's guidelines or warranty terms regarding modifications to the cooling system?

Generally, if the thermal pad is in good condition and your system is operating smoothly without overheating, it might be best to leave it unchanged. Repasting is usually necessary only if there are signs of thermal degradation or if you're facing heat-related performance issues. If you choose to proceed, it's important to use high-quality thermal paste and apply it correctly to prevent any potential damage, or it might be advisable to consult with your laptop manufacturer.

If you have any questions, please let us know. Thank you.

Best regards,

Archie D.
Intel Customer Support Technician

[kubossek88]

Thank you for your quick reply.
After two years I decided to repaste both GPU alongside VRAM and CPU because the temp spikes reached to 100°C on the CPU. I used the Grizzly Krynout Thermal Paste for this job, and also cleaned the radiators from the dust. After that the temperature has been reduced on the GPU only. I noticed some temperature spikes on the CPU up to 100°C (using HWMonitor) during intensive tasks (cinebench, loading games etc.). Normally, whilst gameplay the CPU temp reaches max ~90°C.
The condition of the thermal pad on the PCH was good. No tears at all. I just wonder if the PCH die should be covered with the thermal pad or left cleaned, because as I read on many forums, the opinions are divided.

[ArchieD_Intel · Accepted solution]

Hi kubossek88,

Thank you for your update.

Regarding the CPU temperature spikes during intensive tasks like Cinebench and gaming, while a maximum of ~90°C during gameplay is within a reasonable range for many CPUs under load, spikes to 100°C can be worrying.

As for your question about the Platform Controller Hub (PCH), opinions can vary, and the specific requirements often depend on the design and cooling solution of your system. Given the complexity of thermal management and the potential for configuration-specific solutions, I recommend reaching out to MSI support. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific hardware configuration and offer better support for addressing these thermal issues.

MSI's support team will have detailed knowledge of your laptop's design and can advise on whether the PCH die should be covered with a thermal pad or left clean, as well as any other steps you might take to optimize cooling performance.

If you have other questions, please let us know. Thank you.

Best regards,

Archie D.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[kubossek88]

Thank you so much for your support. That's really helpful. As you suggested, I'll reach MSI team for further support.
Kind Regards,
Jakub.

[ArchieD_Intel]

Hi kubossek88,

Thank you for your update. Since you will be reaching out to MSI, I will now close this inquiry. If you require further assistance, please submit a new request, as this thread will no longer be monitored. Thank you. 

Best regards,

Archie D.

Intel Customer Support Technician