I recently reseated my CPU and accidentally got some thermal paste on three pins of the socket. I did manage to clean the thermal paste that was under the CPU, but I'm unsure about the smudges on the pins. Should I attempt to boot my computer as it is, or would it be better to clean it with 99% isopropyl alcohol and a brush first?
2 Answers
Just use 99% alcohol, Q-tips, and a little patience. That combo can work wonders!
It doesn't look too serious. I recommend pouring 99% alcohol on it and letting it soak for about 5 minutes. After that, use a soft paintbrush to gently wipe the pins. Rinse it again with some more alcohol, let it dry, and you might want to repeat this until it's mostly clean. It doesn't need to be perfect; just focus on getting the bulk of it off.
I just finished cleaning it. How long should I wait now? Is 2 hours enough, or should I wait longer?
Do you think it's worth it to clean it, or could booting it up damage the CPU like this?