Have you ever wondered about the objective of the shiny plate on a CPU?

Its called IHS and is available on every AMD and Intel desktop processor.

The IHS is a multipurpose CPU part, crucial for your processors safety and security.

what-is-cpu-ihs

In this article, Ill explain the CPU IHS and tell its importance in your processor.

So, lets begin.

Whats CPU IHS?

why-do-cpus-have-an-ihs

IHS stands for Integrated Heat Spreader.

It is the outer cap of a CPU and is made of metal.

IHS is present in every Intel and AMD desktop processor on the market.

But do you know which metal is used to make it?

Though copper has better heat conductivity, it is costlier than most metals.

Also, some CPU IHS is made fromcopper alloyornickel plated.

Why Do CPUs Have an IHS?

The CPU has an Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) for exchanging heat between the CPU and the cooler.

When theCPU gets hot, the die temperature increases significantly.

Then the heat passes to the IHS, and the CPU cooler above it starts working.

Any incorrect or excessive mounting pressure can break apart the parts andcause a bad CPU.

The IHS endures the heavy pressure andprotectsthe crucial components, especially the CPU die, from external damage.

The passage below will tell if you’re able to remove the IHS from the CPU.

Can I Remove & Use CPU Without IHS?

Yes, you might remove and use the CPU without integrated heat spreader (IHS).

The process ofremoving the IHS is calledDelidding.

Taking off the outer metal cap may drop the temperature by a few degrees.

It will conduct directly to the CPU cooler and increase efficiency.

It will void the warranty and can cause severe damage to your CPU.

Some serious overclockers use such methods to test or improve CPU performance.

However, its a risky job, and theres a lot of chance oflosing the processor.

IHS givesprotection to your CPU dieand absorbs the pressure during installation.

Without it, theres an increasing possibility of breaking the die.

Moreover, removing the heat isnt the job of the CPU.

Its a task of the CPU cooler, and installing a better cooler can do the job for you.

Changing the thermal paste after a while is necessary to keep the conductivity good.

You canclean the thermal paste of the CPU IHSand reapply it to ensure better heat dissipation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do laptop CPUs have IHS?

No, laptop CPUs are soldered onto the motherboard, and there is no metal cap on the processor.

Can I use the CPU without IHS?

Yes, you might use the CPU without IHS.

But its not recommended due to safety and warranty concerns.

What is CPU IHS made of?

Conclusion

The CPU IHS is vital for your processors heat emission and safety.

This article helped describe the IHS and its purpose and gave you a better understanding of it.

Share your thoughts in the comment box below, and Ill catch you at the next one.