Lapping of heatsink / Mobo Fan Header

[woodbutcher]

Seasons Greetings

Is lapping of the heatsink on a volcano 6 cu+ a good idea?I've read that it should increase thermo conductivity but this unit has a raised copper disc. Also what is safe as far as wattage / amps on a hsf connected to the mobo fan header. This is a 7000 rpm unit and the label on top of the fan only has the thermaltake logo on it with no wattage or amp info.

Thanks in advance WB

[storm2k]

your wattage should be fine. don't worry, most newer mobos can handle the power needs of a powerful fan, especially when they're on athlon boards.

[Target]

Personally, I think lapping is always a good idea....but it really depends on the quality of the surface to begin with.

A lot of heatsink manufacturers don't take the time (ie: expense) to make their surfaces as good as you can get them with lapping. Some do, but its rare in my opinion.

Depending on how smooth and flat it is now, you may or may not see a big difference after lapping. Bottom line is though that unless done incorrectly, you will either see a benefit or no change from what you have now....so you're not really out anything but the time.

As for the fan, keep in mind that some of the higher RMP units draw more power from the motherboard fan headers than they were rated to handle. Most newer ones are able to accomodate the high RMP, high current fans, but some are not and can lead to burning out the fan header on the motherboard. If you can, find out what the fan draws, and what your motherboard headers are built for. If in doubt, it might be wise to get an adapter and run it off the power leads from the powersupply instead just to avoid problems.