AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X review - Product Showcase

Product Showcase

Let's have a peek. Yeah, not your average processor in a box, eh? We received both the 3960X and 3970X. AMD selects the top 2% of dies and uses them for Threadripper Gen3. Obviously, AMD is using a EPYC package and adds as many dies as they need. Once again, the heat spreader has been soldered, so unlidding isn't exactly recommended. Included with the AMD kit (and retail kits) is a Torx tool/wrench. It is very easy to use and prevents you from over-applying force while securing the Threadripper processor. Basically, open up the slot and remove a plastic placeholder, then slide in the CPU, then push down the cover and it'll stick in the position you need it to be. On that socket, you'll notice 1,2 and 3 at the screws. You start at 1, tighten it a bit. Then 2 and 3. Then secure it in that 1-2-3 setup. The Torx wrench will apply just the right amount of pressure. Once seated you obviously want to apply some cooling and yes, please do make use of liquid cooling or at least a proper LCS kit or really good Heatpipe based cooler. Apply some thermal grease, I opt for a bit in the middle and a drop at roughly the die locations. That methodology has never failed me. Don't be shy with the thermal paste, it's a big surface area to cover.