Framework Laptop 16 Liquid Metal to Thermal Pad Installation

ID: 199825

Description:

Steps:

  1. If you're removing liquid metal, follow the next two steps. Otherwise skip here to remove the thermal pad.
  2. Use the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver to scrape off the hardened sections of liquid metal on the CPU.
  3. Use a few drops of high concentration (>90%) isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to wipe away the remaining residue.
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  4. Use your fingers to peel off the plastic shield surrounding the CPU.
  5. If the foam pad on the CPU doesn't come off with the tape, use the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver to pry it off.
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  6. Use a few drops of high concentration (>90%) isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to wipe away the remaining residue from the foam pad and the liquid metal.
  7. Skip the next step.
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  8. Use a few drops of high concentration (>90%) isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to wipe away the foam pad residue on the bottom of the heatsink.
  9. Peel off the foam pad tape and remove it.
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  10. Use a few drops of high concentration (>90%) isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to wipe away the thermal pad residue.
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  11. Repeat the previous step for the thermal pad residue on the bottom of the heatsink.
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  12. Peel off the clear liner from the thermal pad to expose one side of it
  13. Place the exposed side of the thermal pad over the CPU and press it into place.
  14. If you have trouble handling your thermal pad, you can store it in your fridge for a few minutes to make it more rigid.
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  15. Remove the green liner from the thermal pad to expose its top side.
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  16. Align your heatsink over the CPU and place it straight down onto the Mainboard.
  17. The thermal pad needs to go through a few thermal cycles before it gets to full performance.
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  18. Use your Framework Screwdriver to install or tighten the T5 Torx screws securing the CPU Heatsink.
  19. Tighten the captive screws directly over the CPU in reverse order from 4–1.
  20. Tighten the captive screw above the primary SSD.
  21. Install the two 2.0 mm‑long screws along the top corners of the Mainboard.
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