Desktop Computer Packages

My Compaq desktop computer wont start up!! Help?

I have a Compaq SR2163WM and I went to clean out the top part of the processor because the fan started going full speed, so I thought that would help if I did that I took the fan off and cleaned the metal part above the processor... Now when I try to boot up the computer it will shut down on me. It wont even make it to the Windows Boot Screen. What happened? Is there anything I can do to fix it or did I mess up? I think it was the thermal paste, because I saw this pasty grey stuff (now im assuming the thermal paste) between the fan and CPU and ripped it off, just thinking it wasnt meant to be there? The computer will boot up for a minute or so, I got into the bios but it shut down on me. Did I fry it or is there still time to get it fixed by reapplying the thermal paste?

Public Comments

1. Modern PC's will turn themselves off, usually, before any permanent damage can be done. You will need to buy some thermal paste and apply it to your heatsink before you can use your PC again. The good news is that if your CPU HSF (HeatSinkFan) was stock (came with the CPU), then adding a good after-market thermal paste too it, if done correctly, will allow your CPU to run cooler than ever before. There are about a billion different tutorials on how to apply thermal paste properly, just do a search as it is difficult to describe in words how to do it properly.
2. Reapply some thermal paste. First clean off the old paste with a little rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. Then apply a pea sized dab of paste to the center of the cpu. Reinstall the heat sink and fan. Do it in an X pattern if it has push pins. It is probably a couple of metal clips that fit over the top of the heat sink though. Be sure to wear anti static equipment while doing this or keep a bare part of your skin in constint contact with the metal portion of your case.